WO2025160718A1

WO2025160718A1 - Devices for waterless sebum removal

Info

Publication number: WO2025160718A1
Application number: PCT/CN2024/074573
Authority: WO
Inventors: Zhangji Zhou; Chengda YE; Gong Chen
Original assignee: LOreal SA
Current assignee: LOreal SA
Priority date: 2024-01-30
Filing date: 2024-01-30
Publication date: 2025-08-07
Anticipated expiration: 2026-07-30
Also published as: FR3158621A3

Abstract

A device(9) for waterless removal of sebum from a subject (9d). The device (9) includes a head (7a) having an air duct therein and an air vent (8f, 8e) fluidly connected with the air duct of the head (7a). The air duct and the air vent (8f, 8e) of the head (7a) are configured for passage of a heated airflow therethrough, as the heated airflow contacts sebum, it warms and softens the sebum to facilitate removal of the sebum from the subject (9d). The device (9) can make practical use of the Coandǎ effect to increase contact of the subject (9d)'s hair with an absorbent substrate for transfer of heated sebum to the substrate during use. The device (9) can also include sensors and control circuitry for smart management of operation of the device (9), such as control of temperature of the heated airflow, to ensure efficacy of sebum removal without causing damage to the subject (9d)'s hair.

Description

DEVICES FOR WATERLESS SEBUM REMOVAL

SUMMARY

In an aspect, the disclosure provides a device for waterless removal of sebum from a subject, the device comprising: a head comprising an air duct therein and an air vent fluidly connected with the air duct of the head; wherein the air duct and the air vent of the head are configured for passage of a heated airflow therethrough, and wherein the heated airflow is configured to contact, warm, and soften sebum on the subject to facilitate removal of the sebum from the subject.

In embodiments, the device further comprises: a handle with an air duct therein that is fluidly connected with the air duct of the head; wherein passage of an airflow, or the heated airflow, from the air duct of the handle to the air duct of the head passes the heated airflow through the air vent of the head.

In embodiments, the device further comprises: an air blower disposed within the device and configured for generation of an airflow within the device; and a heat element disposed within the device and configured to heat the airflow to produce the heated airflow.

In embodiments, the air blower comprises a motor operably connected with a fan for rotational movement of the fan by operation of the motor.

In embodiments, the heat element comprises a resistance unit operably connected with a power source and is configured for a heating process for production of the heated airflow.

In embodiments, the heating process is configured to heat the airflow above a minimum temperature threshold to soften sebum and below a maximum temperature threshold to protect hair from heat damage.

In embodiments, the minimum temperature threshold is about 40 ℃ at a position of the hair during use of the device.

In embodiments, the device further comprises a thermal sensor, positioned within the heated airflow for measurement of temperature of the heated airflow, that is operably connected with control circuitry of the device for control of the heating process based on a measured temperature of the thermal sensor, the minimum temperature threshold, and the maximum temperature threshold.

In embodiments, the thermal sensor comprises a capacitive temperature sensor or a dielectric resonator-based sensor configured for temperature measurement.

In embodiments, the device further comprises a pressure sensor, positioned on the head, configured to detect contact of the head of the device with the scalp of the individual.

In embodiments, in the absence of detection of contact by the pressure sensor the device is configured for a fiber heating process that comprises a minimum temperature threshold and a maximum temperature threshold, and wherein contact detected by the pressure sensor configures the device for a scalp heating process that has a lower minimum temperature threshold, a lower maximum temperature threshold, or both, compared with the minimum temperature threshold and the maximum temperature threshold of the fiber heating process.

In embodiments, passage of the heated airflow through the air vent focuses the heated airflow along a curved portion of the head of the device, such that a direction of travel of the heated airflow is altered based on a Coandǎ effect.

In embodiments, passage of the heated airflow through at least two air vents focuses the heated airflow along at least two curved portions of the head of the device, such that at least two directions of travel of the heated airflow are altered based on a Coandǎeffect.

In embodiments, the device further comprises an absorbent substrate, positioned on the curved portions of the head, that is configured to contact hair displaced by the Coandǎ effect and absorb sebum from the hair during use.

In embodiments, the device is configured to heat the absorbent substrate, such that sebum is warmed when contacted with a heated absorbent substrate to decrease viscosity and facilitate removal of sebum.

In embodiments, shapes of the heated airflow are altered from linear airflow shapes to curved airflow shapes based on the Coandǎ effect, such that the curved airflow shapes approximate shapes of the curved portions of the head of the device.

In embodiments, the curved portions comprise balanced slopes for a form factor that enables the Coandǎ effect without interference with insertion of the device between hair strands during use.

In embodiments, the absorbent substrate is removably attachable to the curved portions of the head.

In embodiments, the absorbent substrate is removably attachable with an adhesive backing or composition.

In embodiments, the absorbent substrate is removably attachable with an attachment mechanism selected from the group consisting of: a button, a clasp, an interlocking closure, a hook-and-loop, a zipper, a magnet, and any combination thereof.

In embodiments, the absorbent substrate is infused with a composition.

In embodiments, the composition is a sebum removal composition, a perfume composition, or both.

In an aspect, the disclosure provides a kit, comprising: a device; and an instructional material for directing use of the device in a method for waterless removal of sebum from a subject.

In embodiments, the kit further comprises: an absorbent substrate, configured to be positioned on curved portions of the head of the device, contact hair displaced by a Coandǎ effect, and absorb sebum from the hair during use.

In embodiments, the absorbent substrate is infused with a composition.

In an aspect, the disclosure provides a kit, comprising: an absorbent substrate, configured to be positioned on curved portions of a head of a device for waterless sebum removal; and an instructional material for directing use of the absorbent substrate, the device, or both in a method for waterless removal of sebum from a subject.

In embodiments, the absorbent substrate is removably attachable to curved portions of the head of the device with an adhesive backing or composition.

In embodiments, the absorbent substrate is infused with a composition.

This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This summary is not intended to identify key features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows a flowchart of a typical water-soap wash method for removal of sebum.

FIG. 2A shows a diagram illustrative of an example Coandǎ effect, according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 2B shows a diagram illustrative of an example Coandǎ effect of an example device for removal of sebum from a subject, according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 2C shows a perspective view of an example Coandǎ effect as it shapes movement of a subject’s hair, according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 2D shows a diagram of an example device for removal of sebum from a subject, according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 2E shows a side view and diagram of an example device for removal of sebum from a subject, as well as pressure sensors and other elements of the device, according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 3A shows a bottom view of an example device for removal of sebum from a subject, according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 3B shows a top view of an example device for removal of sebum from a subject and example attachable substrates for use with the device, according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 3C shows a front view of an example device for removal of sebum from a subject and an example use of the device, according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 3D shows a front view of a subject’s hair before (left) and after (right) use of an example device for removal of sebum from the subject’s hair, showing hair lift as a result of removal of sebum, according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 4A shows a perspective view of an example device for removal of sebum from a subject and example attachable substrates for use with the device, according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 4B shows a perspective view of an example device for removal of sebum from a subject and an example scented attachable substrate for use with the device, according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 4C shows a perspective view of an example device for removal of sebum from a subject, according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 4D shows a perspective view of an example device for removal of sebum from a subject, with a substrate base and a substrate base securement removed showing air vents of the head of the device, according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 4E shows a perspective cutaway view of an example device for removal of sebum from a subject, according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 4F shows a perspective view of a substrate base and a substrate base securement, showing flow of air over curved portions of the substrate base, according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 4G shows a perspective view of an example comb design for a device for removal of sebum from a subject; the shown device is configured to contact the scalp of the subject for sebum removal, according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 5A shows a perspective view of an example heat element adjacent to an example fan, with temperature readings at different distances from the heat element shown, according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 5B shows a graph illustrating viscosity of sebum at different temperatures, according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 5C shows a graph illustrating sebum removal performance under different conditions, according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 5D shows a graph illustrating example effects of heat on sebum removal performance under different conditions, according to aspects of the disclosure. Results show that an example device and method using a heated airflow can remove more than 35%of sebum, and that sebum removal is about the same under 40 ℃, 45 ℃, and 50 ℃ conditions.

FIG. 5E shows a graph illustrating effect of temperature on migration distance, according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 5F shows a graph illustrating efficacy of sebum removal under different temperature conditions, according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 5G shows a graph illustrating results from a high friction test corresponding to sebum removal under different conditions with a nonwoven substrate, according to aspects of the disclosure. Results show that an example device and method can remove about 40-50%of sebum, and that a longer time of use of the device can result in an increased removal of sebum.

FIG. 6A shows a cross sectional view of example curved portions of a device for sebum removal, according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 6B shows illustrations of airflow and images of uses of devices for sebum removal with different slopes and aerodynamic properties, according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 6C shows a cross sectional view of example curved portions of a device for sebum removal and illustrations of use of differently-shaped curved portions, of a device for sebum removal, according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 6D shows an illustration of an example experimental setup for measurement of physical properties of hair with use of a device for sebum removal, according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 6E shows example results from an experiment for measurement of physical properties of hair with use of a device for sebum removal, according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 7A shows a flowchart of an example method for removal of sebum with heat, according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 7B shows a flowchart of an example method for removal of sebum with a Coandǎ effect, according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 7C shows a flowchart of an example method for maintaining an operational temperature of a heated airflow of a device for sebum removal, according to aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 7D shows a flowchart of an example method for controlling a heat mode of a device for sebum removal based on the distance of air vents from the scalp of a subject during use, according to aspects of the disclosure.

The foregoing aspects and many of the attendant advantages of this disclosure will become more readily appreciated as the same become better understood by reference to the following detailed description, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Water scarcity is a serious situation in which the demand for water exceeds the availability of water, and is a growing concern in view of increasing urbanization and climate change. Water scarcity is increasingly of concern in urban areas in particular, in which it is projected that one third to nearly half of the global urban population will face water scarcity by the year 2050 (He, C., Liu, Z., Wu, J. et al. Future global urban water scarcity and potential solutions. Nat Commun 12, 4667 (2021) ) . While significant infrastructure investment would be expected to help meet demands and combat water scarcity, limiting water usage at the individual level is another option that has the potential to help alleviate the demand on this precious natural resource.

At the individual level, water is typically used for bathing, cleaning, and food preparation. Sebum includes any natural oils that are produced by sebaceous glands of the body, and a key reason why many individuals bathe as frequently as they do is due to the accumulation of sebum on the scalp and hair, which can lead to a feeling of oily or greasy hair or skin and progressive, subjective dissatisfaction with this condition, and in at least some instances, anxiety. As shown at FIG. 1, a typical process 1 for removal of sebum or oil from the hair can involve an individual acquiring water 1a, wetting their hair 1b, foaming the shampoo 1c and washing their hair, rinsing the shampoo 1d, and drying their hair including with a towel pre-drying step 1e and optionally blow drying the hair 1f, and ultimately, removing the water 1g from the hair that was used to remove the sebum or oil with the shampoo or soap.

While low water usage shower heads and other bathing systems exist and can be utilized, there is also a significant, ongoing need for approaches for sebum removal that are water-free, and that are effective enough to be able to replace at least some bathing sessions and allow individuals the option to reduce their frequency of bathing and alleviate water demand. These approaches would also enable individuals to maintain their hygiene even in situations in which access to water is absent or restricted, such as while outdoors or during an ongoing emergency. The present disclosure addresses these and other long-felt and unmet needs in the art.

Aspects of the disclosure make practical use of the Coandǎ effect to focus heated airflows onto a concentrated area, and contact hair strands to an absorbent substrate, such that sebum is warmed, softened, and transferred to the substrate for water-free removal of the sebum from a biological surface such as the skin, hair, or scalp of an individual. The Coandǎ effect, illustrated at FIG. 2A by way of a general example, occurs when an airflow 3b attaches itself to a nearby surface 3a of a curved object 3, and remains attached to the surface 3a even when the surface 3a curves away from the initial airflow 3b direction. The result is a deviation of the shape of the airflow as it passes by the curved object 3. An example configuration 4 of curved portions 4a of a device for waterless removal of sebum is shown at FIG. 2B. In the shown configuration 4, the theoretical airflow direction 4b is different from the observed, actual airflow direction 4c, due to the Coandǎ effect. In the context of an appliance or device for use with a subject’s hair according to the disclosure, as shown at FIG. 2C, a Coandǎ effect 5, resulting from passage of an airflow originating from a nozzle 5a over curved surfaces 5c, shapes the subject’s hair 5b and adheres the subject’s hair 5b to the curved surfaces 5c. According to embodiments of the disclosure, absorbent materials can be placed on the curved surfaces 5c, such that as the individual’s scalp or hair 5b contacts the absorbent materials due to the Coandǎ effect 5, such that sebum can be easily transferred from the scalp or hair 5b to the absorbent materials for water-free and efficient removal of the sebum.

Any of various components of a device for water-free sebum removal can be implemented, according to embodiments. As shown at FIG. 2D, a diagram of an example device 6 for removal of sebum from a subject includes a battery 6b that is operably connected to a charger 6a. The battery 6b is also operably connected to a power board 6c, which in turn is operably connected to one or more elements for heat generation 6d (e.g., a heat element or resistive heat element; for example, a heating coil) . Control of heat generation by the power board 6c can be achieved with a control board 6e, which is operably connected to the one or more elements for heat generation 6d and one or more elements for airflow generation 6f (e.g., a fan; for example, a rotational fan) . The airflow generation element (s) 6f generate an airflow that passes through an airduct design 6g of the device and, in embodiments, produces a Coandǎ effect. The Coandǎ airflow can also be heated by the heat generation element (s) 6d for focused energy output 6h as a result of use of the device.

While any battery or power source can be used for an example device 6, in at least some embodiments, a rechargeable battery 6b is used and can be recharged with use of a charger 6a. Charging of the rechargeable battery 6b by the charger 6a can occur by a wired charging, for example, with physical electrical contacts between the rechargeable battery 6b and the charger 6a, for application of a voltage that originates from a power source, such as an alternating current (AC) outlet, to recharge the rechargeable battery 6b. However, in other implementations, charging of the rechargeable battery 6b by the charger 6a can occur by a wireless charging, for example, with a contactless or an electromagnetic coupling between the rechargeable battery 6b and the charger 6a. In such implementations, the charger 6a can serve as a kind of charging station, at which the device 6 can be placed near for inductive charging of the rechargeable battery 6b by the charger 6a. In these and other implementations, wireless charging can occur by way of passage of an alternating current through an induction coil in the charger 6a, such that the moving electric charge creates a magnetic field that fluctuates in strength with fluctuation of amplitude of the electric current, and the changing magnetic field induces an alternating electric current in an induction coil of the device 6 which passes through a rectifier for conversion to direct current (DC) which is used to recharge the rechargeable battery 6b. While example wired and wireless battery recharging implementations are provided herein, any suitable wired or wireless charging implementation can be used without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosure.

As shown at FIG. 5A, an example heat element can be placed adjacent to an example fan, such that the fan generates an airflow and the heat element heats the airflow to produce a heated airflow during operation. The shown temperature readings, taken at different distances from the heat element, illustrate the decrease in temperature with the increase in distance from the heat element. Since a user may place a device distal or proximal to the head of a subject for a sebum removal treatment, there may be a risk of heat damage to the hair or scalp, for example, if air that reaches the subject’s hair or scalp is too hot.

Accordingly, as shown at FIG. 2E, elements 7 of an example device for removal of sebum from a subject are shown. A device for water-free sebum removal can include a head portion 7a that comprises a plurality of pressure sensors 7h as components of a plurality of tines 7g for contact with the hair and scalp of the subject during use. As the tines 7g contact the subject’s scalp, the pressure sensors 7h detect pressure due to this contact, for example, as a deformation of the tines 7g, and transmit or alter a signal in operable communication with a microcontroller unit (MCU) 7b for detection of contact of the tines 7g with the scalp. Any suitable pressure or force sensor can be implemented in embodiments, including but not necessarily limited to: a pneumatic load cell, a hydraulic load cell, a piezoelectric crystal load cell, an inductive load cell, a capacitive load cell, a magnetostrictive load cell, a strain gage load cell, or any combination thereof. In this manner, the device can be configured to detect contact with the scalp of the individual.

In the shown and other example embodiments, in the absence of detection of contact by pressure sensors 7h, the device is configured for a fiber heating process (e.g., by use of a Coandǎ effect to generate an airflow for sebum melting and to guide the hair fibers) , that can have minimum and maximum temperature thresholds suitable for heating and decreasing viscosity of sebum at a greater distance from the scalp, for example, by generating a lower temperature or more heated airflow at the point of contact. Upon contact detected by pressure sensors 7h, the device is configured for a scalp heating process, that can have higher temperature thresholds compared with those of the fiber heating process, due to more sebum being on the scalp. Transition between scalp and fiber heating modes can be achieved with implementation of a valve 7d that is operably connected with the MCU unit 7b, which is in turn operably connected with pressure sensors 7h for conditional actuation of the valve 7d. In addition, a motor and fan assembly 7c can be implemented to generate a heated airflow, which can be controlled with, for example, valve 7d. The valve 7d can be more open in the absence of detection of contact by pressure sensors 7h (i.e., for a hair/fiber heating mode and a lower operational temperature range) such that temperature of the heated airflow is decreased, and can be more closed with detection of contact by pressure sensors 7h (i.e., for a scalp heating mode and a higher operational temperature range) such that temperature of the heated airflow is increased.

As shown at FIG. 7D, an example method 28 for controlling a heat mode of a device for sebum removal includes several steps that can be carried out, in whole or in part, and in any order whether in parallel or sequentially, by control circuitry of the device. As a first step 28a, the device is activated. A pressure sensor reading can be received by the control circuitry, which carries out one or more logic steps for determining whether the pressure sensors of the device are in contact with the scalp at step 28b. If the device is touching the scalp (step 28b: YES) , then the control circuitry can heat the airflow according to a scalp heating mode at step 28d. If the device is not touching the scalp (step 28b: NO) , then the control circuitry can heat the airflow according to a fiber heating mode at step 28c. In embodiments, the pressure sensors can remain passive or inactive until they contact a surface such as the scalp, at which point they transmit a signal to the control circuitry that is processed by the control circuitry as being indicative of contact with the scalp. In other embodiments, the pressure sensors can maintain a signal to the control circuitry that is interrupted by contact of the pressure sensors with a surface such as the scalp, at which point the signal is not transmitted to the control circuitry, and the lack of the signal is processed by the control circuitry as being indicative of contact with the scalp.

While the shown embodiment utilizes dynamic temperature control of the heated airflow for achieving safety and efficacy of the device at different distances from the scalp, in other embodiments, temperature of the heated airflow can be constant or within a fixed temperature range. For example, the heated airflow can be held within a temperature range that is suitable for a scalp heating process, or alternatively, a fiber heating process, or both. In these and other embodiments, the pressure sensors 7h and dynamic temperature control can be optional and in at least some embodiments, can be omitted from the device.

As shown at FIG. 7C, an example method 27 for maintaining an operational temperature of a heated airflow of a device for sebum removal includes several steps that can be carried out, in whole or in part, and in any order whether in parallel or sequentially, by control circuitry of the device. For example, an airflow can be generated 27a and heated 27b at the same time. However, a step that depends on the outcome of a previous step may be carried out subsequently based on that condition; for example, the airflow should be cooled 27f only if the temperature of the heated airflow is not below a maximum threshold (step 27e: NO) .

Turning to the overall flow of the method 27, an airflow is generated 27a, for example, by activation or continued activation of a motor and fan of the device. As a second step of the method 27, the airflow is heated 27b, for example, by activation or continued activation of a heat element of the device. The temperature of the heated airflow is measured 27c, for example, by a thermal sensor or thermometer, positioned within the heated airflow for measurement of temperature of the heated airflow, that is operably connected with control circuitry of the device. Temperature readings from the thermal sensor are received by the control circuitry which carries out one or more logic steps for determining whether a measured temperature is above a minimum threshold (step 27d) . If the measured temperature is not above the minimum threshold (step 27d: NO) , then control flows to additionally heat the heated airflow at step 27b. If the measured temperature is above the minimum threshold (step 27d: YES) , then control flows to step 27e, where the control circuitry carries out one or more logic steps for determining whether the measured temperature is below a maximum threshold. If the measured temperature is not below the maximum threshold (step 27e: NO) , then control flows to step 27f where the heated airflow is cooled, for example, by activation of a valve for restriction of the heated airflow or restriction of exposure of the heated airflow to a heat element, or alternatively, by adjustment of voltage applied to the heat element to decrease the heat emitted by the heat element. After step 27f, control flows to step 27c, where the temperature of the heated airflow is measured. If the measured temperature is below the maximum threshold (step 27e: YES) , then control flows to step 27c, where the temperature of the heated airflow is measured.

With regard to ranges of temperatures of the heated airflow that are suitable for softening sebum without damaging hair fibers, it has been found that a minimum temperature of about 40 ℃ can be appropriate for heating and decreasing viscosity of sebum, and a maximum temperature of about 216 ℃ is appropriate for avoiding damage to the hair fibers. Since sebum softening occurs at temperatures that are well below 216 ℃, a lower maximum temperature can be used, in embodiments, for a gentler yet effective heating process. Testing of temperatures below 40 ℃ also showed an effect on sebum viscosity, with a decrease in viscosity of sebum of about 40-50%occurring at about 29 ℃, for example.

As used herein, “about” a quantity refers to the exact quantity specified as well as all quantities that are within the range defined by 10%below the quantity specified and 10%above the quantity specified, inclusive.

Accordingly, in embodiments, the minimum temperature threshold for the heated airflow can be about 25 ℃, about 26 ℃, about 27 ℃, about 28 ℃, about 29 ℃, about 30 ℃, about 31 ℃, about 32 ℃, about 33 ℃, about 34 ℃, about 35 ℃, about 36 ℃, about 37 ℃, about 38 ℃, about 39 ℃, about 40 ℃, about 41 ℃, about 42 ℃, about 43 ℃, about 44 ℃, about 45 ℃, about 46 ℃, about 47 ℃, about 48 ℃, about 49 ℃, about 50 ℃, about 51 ℃, about 52 ℃, about 53 ℃, about 54 ℃, about 55 ℃, about 56 ℃, about 57 ℃, about 58 ℃, about 59 ℃, about 60 ℃, or a higher temperature, to ensure viscosity of sebum is decreased.

In embodiments, the maximum temperature threshold can be about 216 ℃, about 200 ℃, about 190 ℃, about 180 ℃, about 170 ℃, about 160 ℃, about 150 ℃, about 140 ℃, about 130 ℃, about 120 ℃, about 110 ℃, about 100 ℃, about 95 ℃, about 90 ℃, about 85 ℃, about 80 ℃, about 75 ℃, about 70 ℃, or a lower temperature.

In instances where a minimum temperature threshold is implemented, the heated airflow may need to contact the sebum for a particular period of time to decrease viscosity of the sebum and be effective. As such, in embodiments, the heated airflow can effectively reduce the viscosity of the sebum after contact of the heated airflow with the sebum for about 1 sec., about 2 sec., about 3 sec., about 4 sec., about 5 sec., about 6 sec., about 7 sec., about 8 sec., about 9 sec., about 10 sec., about 11 sec., about 12 sec., about 13 sec., about 14 sec., about 15 sec., about 16 sec., about 17 sec., about 18 sec., about 19 sec., about 20 sec., about 21 sec., about 22 sec., about 23 sec., about 24 sec., about 25 sec., about 26 sec., about 27 sec., about 28 sec., about 29 sec., about 30 sec., about 35 sec., about 40 sec., about 45 sec., about 50 sec., about 55 sec., about 60 sec., about 70 sec., about 80 sec., about 90 sec., about 100 sec., about 110 sec., about 120 sec., about 130 sec., about 140 sec., about 150 sec., about 160 sec., about 170 sec., about 180 sec., about 210 sec., about 240 sec., about 270 sec., about 300 sec., about 330 sec., about 360 sec., about 390 sec., about 420 sec., about 480 sec., about 540 sec., about 600 sec., or a longer amount of time, to ensure viscosity of sebum is decreased.

In embodiments, a lower temperature may require a longer contact time to be effective, and a higher temperature may not require a longer contact time to be effective. Identification of effective contact time /heated airflow temperature combinations that are acceptable to users can be made with experimentation of different hair types and sizes under different conditions. Automated or semi-automated programs for particular uses or applications, for example, sebum removal programs whose parameters including time and temperature are based on hair types or sizes, can be implemented with programmable control circuitry of the device, and optionally, can be selected by a user.

Accordingly, in aspects, the disclosure provides a “smart” waterless sebum removal device comprising circuitry configured to perform all or part of a method, including but not necessarily limited to control of temperature of the heated airflow, detection of force indicative of contact with the scalp, and the like. In embodiments, circuitry of a device is configurable with a processor and processor-executable instructions stored on a non-transitory machine-readable medium of the device. In embodiments, a device includes a software application configured to perform all or part of one or more methods or processes of the disclosure, in any order or combination. However, in embodiments, a device includes dedicated hardware circuitry. Further configuration of circuitry of the device can include wireless communication or networking circuitry, for example, circuitry configured for a wireless connection, such as aconnection, alow energy (BLE) connection, and/or aconnection, and/or a wired connection. The networking circuitry, in combination with other circuitry of the computational device, can be used to request, retrieve, and/or receive data from a computational device or a remote server, for example. In embodiments, the device can be operated with use of a computational device, such as a smartphone or personal computational device, that can be operated by a user via a graphical user interface, as known in the art. In embodiments, the circuitry can include operable connection of one or more sensors with the processor, or other circuitry, for performing logic operations and/or methods based on data received from the one or more sensors, for example, pressure sensors, thermal sensors, and the like.

Any suitable form factor can be implemented for a device for sebum removal, including form factors that emit a heated airflow from one or more air vents which passes along one or more curved portions of the device for alteration of path of travel of the heated airflow due to the Coandǎ effect. The slope of one or more curved portions can be adjusted or optimized, through experimentation, to achieve the desired effect of adherence of hair fibers to one or more curved portions and to form a focal line at which the heated airflow is focused. In this manner, the heated airflow is concentrated at the focal line and contacts, warms, softens, and removes the sebum without causing heat damage to the hair or scalp.

While the Coandǎ effect is practically implemented in a number of embodiments of the device, in at least some embodiments, a device for waterless sebum removal can be operable without necessarily relying on the Coandǎ effect. For example, an alternate waterless sebum removal device can implement any of a number of hair press approaches that can include a hair combing or clamping structure for physical separation of sebum from the hair. These and other implementations can deliver heat to the hair with use of a heated airflow that is not necessarily altered by the Coandǎ effect or, alternatively, can deliver heat to the hair by conduction due to direct contact of the hair with a heated hair combing or claiming structure. These and other such approaches can warm the hair and soften the sebum such that the sebum has a reduced viscosity and is easily removed from the hair and scalp, whether by force of the heated airflow, the hair combing or clamping structure, or a nonwoven substrate.

In at least some embodiments wherein the Coandǎ effect is implemented, selection of slope of the device, as illustrated by way of an example at FIG. 6A, can be informed based on experiments with different slopes, as illustrated by way of examples at FIGs 6B, 6C, 6D, and 6E. For example, as shown at FIG. 6A, a plurality of slopes 21 can be tested. A steep slope 21a can be compared with a gentle slope 21b. In the shown embodiment, the steep slope 21a can be characterized at least in part by the amount of rise (i.e., 50 units) divided by the amount of run (i.e., 15 units; half of 30 units) . Likewise, the gentle slope 21b can be characterized at least in part by the amount of rise (i.e., 50 units) divided by the amount of run (i.e., 10 units; half of 20 units) . As such, in the shown embodiment, the slopes of the curved portions of the steep slope 21a are equal to 50 units /15 units = 3.33, and the slopes of the curved portions of the gentle slope 21b are equal to 50 units /10 units = 5.00. While continuously sloped curved portions are shown in these examples, discontinuously sloped curved portions can be implemented, without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosure, for example, for altered or improved aerodynamic properties of the device. As will be understood by the skilled artisan, different dimensions (including but not limited to the amount of rise and the amount of run) will result in different Coandǎ effects.

As shown at FIG. 6B, differently sloped curved portions 21a, 21b can introduce different clearances between the hair and the wall of the curved portions. In addition, since different hair types have different strengths and flexibilities, this effect can be leveraged for configuration of particular designs for particular hair types. For example, one or more designs including one or more differently sloped curved portions can be implemented for one or more hair types, including but not limited to straight hair types, wavy hair types, curly hair types, and tightly curled hair types. Similarly, one or more differently sloped curved portions can be implemented for one or more hair thicknesses, including but not limited to thin hair (e.g., strands that are ≤ 0.05mm thick) , medium hair (e.g., strands that are > 0.05mm thick and < 0.08mm thick) , and thick hair (e.g., strands that are ≥ 0.08mm thick) . Other properties of hair can contribute to its flexibility and ability to adhere to the wall of the curved portions, such as flexibility or rigidness, which can be influenced by product in the hair, as well as strand density and electrostatic characteristics such as tendency to accrue an electrostatic charge, and the like. These and other hair characteristics can be factored into the testing or selection of one or more features of the device, including but not limited to slope values for curved portions 21a, 21b, to facilitate adherence of the hair to the curved portions with use of the Coandǎ effect without interfering with placement of the head of the device between hair strands for use.

As shown at FIG. 6C, example curved portions 23 having certain radii or slope dimensions X can be tested for evaluation of deformation of hair strands due to the Coandǎ effect and the resultant adherence of the hair strands to the walls of the curved portions. For example, different curved portions 23a, 23b having different radii or slope properties (X=10, X=8) can be evaluated with imagery captured during use, with and without airflow. Another experimental setup 24 is shown at FIG. 6D, with which it can be determined how strongly the Coandǎ effect pulls or increases tension, and horizontally displaces, one or more strands of hair 24d. For example, a hair strand 24d can be affixed to a tension meter 24c, which is attached to a support beam 24b supported by a surface 24a, such as a tabletop counter. Experimental curved portions 24e can be placed adjacent to the hair strand 24d, and an airflow F applied to the setup, e.g., from above. A horizontal force Fn, caused by the Coandǎ effect, horizontally displaces the hair strand 24d toward the experimental curved portions 24e, and the distance of displacement can be measured with a ruler or other distance indicator. As the airflow F is applied, the tension force applied to the hair strand 24d can be measured with the tension meter 24c. As shown at FIG. 6E, periodic application of the airflow across time results in corresponding measurements from the tension meter, with an Fmax of 0.14N. As such, the speed of the airflow F, the dimensions of the device curved portions, or both, can be developed and configured for use with one or more particular hair sizes or hair types so as to prevent hair strand breakage with use of the device. An additional variable that can be included with this and other experiments is temperature of the heated airflow, which can potentially impact the strength of the strands and the ease with which the strands are displaced due to the Coandǎ effect during use.

With testing of various designs, it was found that a steeper slope of the curved portions introduces a larger horizontal displacement and curvature of the hair and a gentler slope of the curved portions introduces a smaller horizontal displacement and curvature of the hair. However, since a significantly steeper slope can be more difficult to insert between hair strands during use, a balanced or intermediate-valued slope can be implemented in embodiments for ease of insertion of the curved portions into the hair while also maintaining satisfactory horizontal displacement and curvature of the hair for removal of sebum.

Experiments with different sebum removal conditions yielded comparative insights into example parameters for devices and methods for sebum removal, according to various aspects of the disclosure. For example, an in vitro oil removal assay with weight of a hair swatch as readout revealed that heated substrates and wetted and heated substrates were more effective at sebum removal compared with non-heated, dry substrates (FIG. 5C, Table 1) . Testing of application of a heated airflow heated to temperatures below 40 ℃, below 45 ℃, or below 50 ℃ for 5 min. revealed that a minimum temperature threshold of about 40 ℃ can be suitable for sebum removal (FIG. 5D) . In addition, an in vitro migration distance assay evaluating movement of oils along a surface as a result of either heated or non-heated airflow applied for extended periods of time revealed that the heated airflow (35 ℃) moved the oils along the surface at a much larger distance compared with the non-heated airflow (5 ℃) (FIG. 5E) , consistent with the heated airflow being better at reducing viscosity of the sebum. This association was also observed in a removal efficacy assay (FIG. 5F) . A high friction test, in which non-woven substrates were contacted to hair swatches for different periods of time, revealed that sebum was transferred from the hair swatch to the substrates over time, with decreasing returns observed to fall within the range of about 2 min. to 5 min. contact time.

Having identified sets of parameters that are effective for sebum removal, a prototype design for a device was developed. A bottom view of an example device for removal of sebum from a subject is shown at FIG. 3A; in the shown orientation, air vents 8f and 8e are facing the viewer, such that a heated airflow passing from the air vents 8f and 8e would travel in the general direction of toward the viewer. A device 8 includes a head 8g affixed to a handle 8h. An air duct within the handle 8h is fluidly connected with an air duct within the head 8g. As an airflow travels through the air duct of the handle 8h it can pass through the air duct of the head 8g, and out of the air vents 8f and 8e. As the airflow passes out of the air vents 8f and 8e, it contacts curved portions 8d and 8c of the head and adheres to the curved portions 8d and 8c according to a Coandǎ effect formed by curved portions 8d and 8c of the head. In the shown embodiment, curved portions 8d and 8c of the head converge toward a ridge 8b that extends a length of the head 8g. The curved portions 8d and 8c of the head can comprise solid surfaces for adherence of a substrate 8j thereto, as shown at FIG. 3B. The device 8 can be provided or configured for use with any of a number of substrates 8i for sebum removal. As shown at FIG. 3C, with the substrate attached to an example device 9, the heated airflow including 9b and 9c travels from the head 9a of the device 9 along curved portions of the device 9, with the substrate thereon, and contacts the hair and scalp of a subject 9d for waterless removal of sebum. As the substrate contacts the scalp and the heated airflow warms and softens the sebum, the sebum can be more easily wiped, wicked, or otherwise transferred from the scalp to the substrate. In this manner, the sebum can be effectively removed from the subject 9d without use of water, detergents or soaps, or bathing.

A variety of benefits can be brought about by various aspects of the disclosure. For example, as shown at FIG. 3D, there is an illustration 10 of a subject before 10a and after 10b use of a device for sebum removal of the disclosure. As a result of sebum removal, the subject’s hair can have greater volume and be lighter in weight due to decreased mass as a result of removal of the sebum. The subject’s hair can appear more bouncy or voluminous, for example. This and other outcomes of the disclosure can correspond with high levels of consumer satisfaction and high probability of reuse and water conservation.

Turning to features of an example device kit 11, as shown at FIG. 4A, the device kit 11 can include a device 11a with curved portions configured for receipt of a substrate 11b thereon. In embodiments, the substrate 11b is one of a plurality of substrates 11c, containing the same, similar, dissimilar, or different characteristics among substrates of the plurality of substrates 11c. For example, as the substrates 11c are used, they may become soiled, and can be replaced with new substrates. Another example device kit 12 is shown at FIG. 4B, and includes a device 12a and a scented component 12b, which can include a standalone fragrance or pre-fragranced substrates, for example. Use of a fragranced substrate with the device 12a can result in transfer of fragrance from the substrate to the subject’s hair or scalp, providing a scent aesthetic. While scented substrates can be provided with infusion of a perfume composition into the substrate, this is only an example of an infused substrate; another example includes a substrate infused with a sebum removal composition. Example sebum removal compositions can comprise, for example, a retinoid, an exfoliant such as salicylic acid or glycolic acid, an oil, a diluent, a carrier, a salt, a buffer component for pH control, or any combination thereof.

In various embodiments, a composition can be infused into a nonwoven substrate and the infused substrate dried or dehydrated, for example, for packaging or offer of sale, and provided to a user in a dry state. The user can then re-wet the infused substrate prior to use, such that elements of the composition become solubilized and active in the water. However, in other embodiments, a substrate can be provided to a user in a dry state, optionally in combination with a composition, which the user can then infuse into the substrate prior to use of the substrate. As will be understood by the person having ordinary skill in the art, these and other relatively minor uses of water with aspects of the disclosure do not negate from the use of the term “waterless” as used herein, which refers generally to aspects that are able to be implemented without a large or substantial amount of water as is otherwise typical of soap or detergent-based bathing methods.

A perspective view of an example device for waterless sebum removal is shown at FIG. 4C, with other configurations and views of the example device shown at FIGs 4D, 4E, 4F, and 4G. In the shown embodiment, a device 13 for waterless removal of sebum from a subject includes a handle 13a and a head 13b that includes a substrate base 13c and a substrate base securement 13b for securement of a substrate to the substrate base 13c. In the shown embodiment, the substrate base 13c also has curved portions thereon for producing a Coandǎ effect of an airflow, such that the airflow is arcuately shaped by the Coandǎ effect and bends hair toward the curved portions during use. In embodiments, the handle 13a includes a dorsal portion 13g, a ventral portion 13h, a left portion 13i, and a right portion 13j that together form a housing of the handle that comprises an airduct 13d therein. In embodiments, the airduct 13d of the handle is fluidly connected with an airduct 13n of the head, as shown at FIG. 4E, such that air flows from the air duct 13d of the handle into the air duct 13n of the head and out of air vents 13k of the head, where the airflow contacts curved portions 13m of the substrate base for generation of the Coandǎ effect. As shown at FIG. 4D, in embodiments, the substrate base 13c is detachable from the head 13b of the device 13 by a flexing deformation and removal of the substrate base 13c from the substrate base securement 13l. This configuration can be used for cleaning or repairing the device 13, removal of a used substrate from the substrate base 13c, or attachment of a new substrate to the substrate base 13c, for example. A nonwoven substrate can be secured to the substrate base 13c by any suitable means, including but not limited to an adhesive backing, a glue substance, a button, a clasp, an interlocking closure, a hook-and-loop, a zipper, a magnet, and any combination thereof. In at least some embodiments, the substrate can be secured to the substrate base 13c, at least in part, by way of pressure or friction fit due to attachment of the substrate base securement 13l to the substrate base 13c; in such embodiments, the substrate can be secured between the substrate base securement 13l to the substrate base 13c and held in place by these elements. However, other attachment mechanisms for securement of the substrate to the substrate base 13c can be implemented without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosure.

As shown at FIG. 4G, in at least some embodiments, a substrate base 13c comprises a plurality of channels 13p, formed by a plurality of ridges 13o, configured for guidance of an airflow (curved arrows) over curved portions of the substrate base 13c and through the channels 13p. The shown configuration forms a comb design for the device, configured to contact the scalp for sebum removal from the subject. In this and other embodiments wherein a nonwoven substrate is secured to the substrate base 13c, curvature of the airflow about the substrate, which conforms in shape with the curved portions of the substrate base 13c, bends the hair of the subject and increases contact of the hair and scalp to the substrate. This helps absorb sebum and oil from the hair and scalp for waterless cleaning.

In various aspects, the disclosure provides methods for waterless sebum removal that are based at least in part on heating the sebum with a heated airflow to reduce viscosity of the sebum, and removing the sebum from the hair. In various aspects, a method can be performed by a user, or by directing a user to perform the method (e.g., by provisional of an instructional material to the user directing a use of a device, a performance of a method, or the like) .

Removal of the sebum can be facilitated by use of a substrate, which can be heated or non-heated, and can be dry or wet. As shown at FIG. 7A, a method 26a for waterless removal of sebum includes, at step 26b, generation of a heated airflow configured to soften the sebum; at step 26c, contact of the hair and/or scalp with the heated airflow; at step 26d, provision of a substrate for sebum capture; at step 26e (optional) , heating the substrate; and at step 26f, contact of the hair and/or scalp with the substrate or the heated substrate, as the case may be. As shown at FIG. 7B, a method 26g for waterless removal of sebum with practical application of the Coandǎ effect includes, at step 26h, generation of a heated airflow with a Coandǎ effect that is configured to soften sebum; at step 26i, contact of the hair and/or scalp with the heated air flow having the Coandǎ effect; at step 26j, provision of a substrate configured for sebum capture; at step 26k (optional) , heating the substrate; and at step 26l, contacting the hair and/or scalp with the substrate or the heated substrate, as the case may be.

TABLES

Table 1. Test data for waterless device-mediated removal of oil from hair bundle in vitro (see also FIG. 5C) .

NON-LIMITING EMBODIMENTS

While general features of the disclosure are described and shown and particular features of the disclosure are set forth in the claims, the following non-limiting embodiments relate to features, and combinations of features, that are explicitly envisioned as being part of the disclosure. The following non-limiting Embodiments contain elements that are modular and can be combined with each other in any number, order, or combination to form a new non-limiting Embodiment, which can itself be further combined with other non-limiting Embodiments.

Embodiment 1. A device for waterless removal of sebum from a subject, the device comprising: a head comprising an air duct therein and an air vent fluidly connected with the air duct of the head; wherein the air duct and the air vent of the head are configured for passage of a heated airflow therethrough, and wherein the heated airflow is configured to contact, warm, and soften sebum on the subject to facilitate removal of the sebum from the subject.

Embodiment 2. The device of Embodiment 1 or any other Embodiment, further comprising: a handle with an air duct therein that is fluidly connected with the air duct of the head; wherein passage of an airflow, or the heated airflow, from the air duct of the handle to the air duct of the head passes the heated airflow through the air vent of the head.

Embodiment 3. The device of any of Embodiments 1-2 or any other Embodiment, further comprising: an air blower disposed within the device and configured for generation of an airflow within the device; and a heat element disposed within the device and configured to heat the airflow to produce the heated airflow.

Embodiment 4. The device of Embodiment 3 or any other Embodiment, wherein the air blower comprises a motor operably connected with a fan for rotational movement of the fan by operation of the motor.

Embodiment 5. The device of any of Embodiments 3-4 or any other Embodiment, wherein the heat element comprises a resistance unit operably connected with a power source and is configured for a heating process for production of the heated airflow.

Embodiment 6. The device of Embodiment 5 or any other Embodiment, wherein the heating process is configured to heat the airflow above a minimum temperature threshold to soften sebum and below a maximum temperature threshold to protect hair from heat damage.

Embodiment 7. The device of Embodiment 6 or any other Embodiment, wherein the minimum temperature threshold is about 40 ℃ at a position of the hair during use of the device.

Embodiment 8. The device of any of Embodiments 1-7 or any other Embodiment, further comprising a thermal sensor, positioned within the heated airflow for measurement of temperature of the heated airflow, that is operably connected with control circuitry of the device for control of the heating process based on a measured temperature of the thermal sensor, the minimum temperature threshold, and the maximum temperature threshold.

Embodiment 9. The device of Embodiment 8 or any other Embodiment, wherein the thermal sensor comprises a capacitive temperature sensor or a dielectric resonator-based sensor configured for temperature measurement.

Embodiment 10. The device of any of Embodiments 1-9 or any other Embodiment, further comprising a pressure sensor, positioned on the head, configured to detect contact of the head of the device with the scalp of the individual.

Embodiment 11. The device of Embodiment 10 or any other Embodiment, wherein in the absence of detection of contact by the pressure sensor the device is configured for a fiber heating process that comprises a minimum temperature threshold and a maximum temperature threshold, and wherein contact detected by the pressure sensor configures the device for a scalp heating process that has a lower minimum temperature threshold, a lower maximum temperature threshold, or both, compared with the minimum temperature threshold and the maximum temperature threshold of the fiber heating process.

Embodiment 12. The device of any of Embodiments 1-11 or any other Embodiment, wherein passage of the heated airflow through the air vent focuses the heated airflow along a curved portion of the head of the device, such that a direction of travel of the heated airflow is altered based on a Coandǎ effect.

Embodiment 13. The device of Embodiment 12 or any other Embodiment, wherein passage of the heated airflow through at least two air vents focuses the heated airflow along at least two curved portions of the head of the device, such that at least two directions of travel of the heated airflow are altered based on a Coandǎ effect.

Embodiment 14. The device of any of Embodiments 1-13 or any other Embodiment, further comprising an absorbent substrate, positioned on the curved portions of the head, that is configured to contact hair displaced by the Coandǎ effect and absorb sebum from the hair during use.

Embodiment 15. The device of Embodiment 14 or any other Embodiment, wherein the device is configured to heat the absorbent substrate, such that sebum is warmed when contacted with a heated absorbent substrate to decrease viscosity and facilitate removal of sebum.

Embodiment 16. The device of any of Embodiments 13-15 or any other Embodiment, wherein shapes of the heated airflow are altered from linear airflow shapes to curved airflow shapes based on the Coandǎ effect, such that the curved airflow shapes approximate shapes of the curved portions of the head of the device.

Embodiment 17. The device of any of Embodiments 13-16 or any other Embodiment, wherein the curved portions comprise balanced slopes for a form factor that enables the Coandǎ effect without interference with insertion of the device between hair strands during use.

Embodiment 18. The device of any of Embodiments 14-17 or any other Embodiment, wherein the absorbent substrate is removably attachable to the curved portions of the head.

Embodiment 19. The device of any of Embodiments 14-18 or any other Embodiment, wherein the absorbent substrate is removably attachable with an adhesive backing or composition.

Embodiment 20. The device of any of Embodiments 14-19 or any other Embodiment, wherein the absorbent substrate is removably attachable with an attachment mechanism selected from the group consisting of: a button, a clasp, an interlocking closure, a hook-and-loop, a zipper, a magnet, and any combination thereof.

Embodiment 21. The device of any of Embodiments 14-20 or any other Embodiment, wherein the absorbent substrate is infused with a composition.

Embodiment 22. The device of Embodiment 21 or any other Embodiment, wherein the composition is a sebum removal composition, a perfume composition, or both.

Embodiment 23. A kit, comprising: the device of any of Embodiments 1-22 or any other Embodiment; and an instructional material for directing use of the device in a method for waterless removal of sebum from a subject.

Embodiment 24. The kit of Embodiment 23 or any other Embodiment, further comprising an absorbent substrate, configured to be positioned on curved portions of the head of the device, contact hair displaced by a Coandǎ effect, and absorb sebum from the hair during use.

Embodiment 25. The kit of Embodiment 24 or any other Embodiment, wherein the absorbent substrate is infused with a composition.

Embodiment 26. The kit of Embodiment 25 or any other Embodiment, wherein the composition is a sebum removal composition, a perfume composition, or both.

Embodiment 27. A kit, comprising: an absorbent substrate, configured to be positioned on curved portions of a head of a device for waterless sebum removal; and an instructional material for directing use of the absorbent substrate, the device, or both in a method for waterless removal of sebum from a subject.

Embodiment 28. The kit of Embodiment 27 or any other Embodiment, wherein the absorbent substrate is removably attachable to curved portions of the head of the device with an adhesive backing or composition.

Embodiment 29. The kit of any of Embodiments 27-28 or any other Embodiment, wherein the absorbent substrate is infused with a composition.

Embodiment 30. The kit of Embodiment 29 or any other Embodiment, wherein the composition is a sebum removal composition, a perfume composition, or both.

While illustrative embodiments have been illustrated and described, it will be appreciated that various changes can be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

The embodiments of the invention in which an exclusive property or privilege is claimed are defined as follows:
A device for waterless removal of sebum from a subject, the device comprising:

a head comprising an air duct therein and an air vent fluidly connected with the air duct of the head;

wherein the air duct and the air vent of the head are configured for passage of a heated airflow therethrough, and wherein the heated airflow is configured to contact, warm, and soften sebum on the subject to facilitate removal of the sebum from the subject.
The device of claim 1, further comprising:

a handle with an air duct therein that is fluidly connected with the air duct of the head;

wherein passage of an airflow, or the heated airflow, from the air duct of the handle to the air duct of the head passes the heated airflow through the air vent of the head.
The device of any of claims 1-2, further comprising:

an air blower disposed within the device and configured for generation of an airflow within the device; and

a heat element disposed within the device and configured to heat the airflow to produce the heated airflow.
The device of claim 3, wherein the air blower comprises a motor operably connected with a fan for rotational movement of the fan by operation of the motor.
The device of any of claims 3-4, wherein the heat element comprises a resistance unit operably connected with a power source and is configured for a heating process for production of the heated airflow.
The device of claim 5, wherein the heating process is configured to heat the airflow above a minimum temperature threshold to soften sebum and below a maximum temperature threshold to protect hair from heat damage.
The device of claim 6, wherein the minimum temperature threshold is about 40 ℃ at a position of the hair during use of the device.
The device of any of claims 1-7, further comprising a thermal sensor, positioned within the heated airflow for measurement of temperature of the heated airflow, that is operably connected with control circuitry of the device for control of the heating process based on a measured temperature of the thermal sensor, the minimum temperature threshold, and the maximum temperature threshold.
The device of claim 8, wherein the thermal sensor comprises a capacitive temperature sensor or a dielectric resonator-based sensor configured for temperature measurement.
The device of any of claims 1-9, further comprising a pressure sensor, positioned on the head, configured to detect contact of the head of the device with the scalp of the individual.
The device of claim 10, wherein in the absence of detection of contact by the pressure sensor the device is configured for a fiber heating process that comprises a minimum temperature threshold and a maximum temperature threshold, and wherein contact detected by the pressure sensor configures the device for a scalp heating process that has a lower minimum temperature threshold, a lower maximum temperature threshold, or both, compared with the minimum temperature threshold and the maximum temperature threshold of the fiber heating process.
The device of any of claims 1-11, wherein passage of the heated airflow through the air vent focuses the heated airflow along a curved portion of the head of the device, such that a direction of travel of the heated airflow is altered based on aeffect.
The device of claim 12, wherein passage of the heated airflow through at least two air vents focuses the heated airflow along at least two curved portions of the head of the device, such that at least two directions of travel of the heated airflow are altered based on aeffect.
The device of any of claims 1-13, further comprising an absorbent substrate, positioned on the curved portions of the head, that is configured to contact hair displaced by theeffect and absorb sebum from the hair during use.
The device of claim 14, wherein the device is configured to heat the absorbent substrate, such that sebum is warmed when contacted with a heated absorbent substrate to decrease viscosity and facilitate removal of sebum.
The device of any of claims 13-15, wherein shapes of the heated airflow are altered from linear airflow shapes to curved airflow shapes based on theeffect, such that the curved airflow shapes approximate shapes of the curved portions of the head of the device.
The device of any of claims 13-16, wherein the curved portions comprise balanced slopes for a form factor that enables theeffect without interference with insertion of the device between hair strands during use.
The device of any of claims 14-17, wherein the absorbent substrate is removably attachable to the curved portions of the head.
The device of any of claims 14-18, wherein the absorbent substrate is removably attachable with an adhesive backing or composition.
The device of any of claims 14-19, wherein the absorbent substrate is removably attachable with an attachment mechanism selected from the group consisting of:a button, a clasp, an interlocking closure, a hook-and-loop, a zipper, a magnet, and any combination thereof.
The device of any of claims 14-20, wherein the absorbent substrate is infused with a composition.
The device of claim 21, wherein the composition is a sebum removal composition, a perfume composition, or both.
A kit, comprising:

the device of any of claims 1-22; and

an instructional material for directing use of the device in a method for waterless removal of sebum from a subject.
The kit of claim 23, further comprising an absorbent substrate, configured to be positioned on curved portions of the head of the device, contact hair displaced by a effect, and absorb sebum from the hair during use.
The kit of claim 24, wherein the absorbent substrate is infused with a composition.
The kit of claim 25, wherein the composition is a sebum removal composition, a perfume composition, or both.
A kit, comprising:

an absorbent substrate, configured to be positioned on curved portions of a head of a device for waterless sebum removal; and

an instructional material for directing use of the absorbent substrate, the device, or both in a method for waterless removal of sebum from a subject.
The kit of claim 27, wherein the absorbent substrate is removably attachable to curved portions of the head of the device with an adhesive backing or composition.
The kit of any of claims 27-28, wherein the absorbent substrate is infused with a composition.
The kit of claim 29, wherein the composition is a sebum removal composition, a perfume composition, or both.