IP Verse

Artificial Lash Extensions

Patent No. US12171290 (titled "Artificial Lash Extensions") was filed by Lashify Inc on May 18, 2023.

What is this patent about?

’290 is related to the field of artificial eyelashes, specifically addressing the problem of time-consuming application processes associated with traditional eyelash extensions. Conventional methods require individual lash-by-lash application, which can take hours and be costly. The patent aims to provide a faster and more convenient way to enhance eyelash length and fullness.

The underlying idea behind ’290 is to pre-assemble multiple clusters of artificial hairs into a lash extension with a knotless base , allowing for simultaneous application of several hairs at once. This is achieved by using a first adhesive to join the ends of these clusters to the knotless base. The entire lash extension is then designed to be attached to the underside of the natural eyelashes using a second adhesive.

The claims of ’290 focus on an artificial lash extension system comprising a plurality of lash extensions. Each lash extension has a knotless base, multiple clusters of artificial hairs, and a first adhesive joining the clusters to the base. The knotless base is designed for attachment to the underside of natural eyelashes using a second adhesive. The claims also cover a method of manufacturing these lash extensions.

In practice, the lash extensions are manufactured by first forming clusters of artificial hairs, typically 10-30 hairs per cluster. These clusters are then arranged and adhered to the knotless base using a first adhesive, creating a single lash extension. Multiple such lash extensions can then be applied to the underside of the natural eyelashes using a second adhesive, significantly reducing application time compared to individual lash extensions.

The key differentiation from prior approaches lies in the pre-assembled nature of the lash extensions and the knotless base design . Traditional methods involve either individual lash application or the use of strip lashes applied to the eyelid. ’290's approach allows for faster application than individual lashes and a more natural look than strip lashes, as the knotless base allows the extensions to blend seamlessly with the natural lash line when applied underneath.

How does this patent fit in bigger picture?

Technical landscape at the time

In the mid-2010s when ’290 was filed, eyelash extensions were typically applied individually, which was time-consuming and expensive. Clusters of artificial lashes were also available, but they were difficult to apply evenly and could stick together. False eyelashes offered a quicker application but were often easily distinguishable from natural lashes and could be uncomfortable.

Novelty and Inventive Step

The examiner approved the patent because the prior art, including Giuliano, Meehan, and Choe, did not teach or suggest a plurality of lash extensions comprised of a plurality of clusters of artificial hairs attached to a knotless base by a first adhesive and then configured to attach to an underside of natural eyelashes with a second adhesive. Specifically, Giuliano taught away from clusters, Meehan's arrangement was for propping up lashes from above, and Choe taught adhesive as the base itself. Byrne taught attachment to the eyelid, not the underside of the lashes.

Claims

This patent contains 30 claims, with independent claims 1 and 19. Independent claim 1 focuses on an artificial lash extension system, while independent claim 19 focuses on a method of manufacturing lash extensions. The dependent claims generally elaborate on specific features, materials, and manufacturing steps related to the lash extension system and its method of manufacture.

Key Claim Terms New

Definitions of key terms used in the patent claims.

Term (Source)Support for SpecificationInterpretation
Artificial lash extension system
(Claim 1)		“Various embodiments concern artificial eyelashes and, more specifically, clusters of artificial eyelash extensions that can be applied to the underside of an individual's natural eyelashes.”A system comprising multiple lash extensions, each with a knotless base and clusters of artificial hairs joined by a first adhesive, designed to attach to the underside of natural eyelashes using a second adhesive.
First adhesive
(Claim 1, Claim 19)		“Eyelash extensions have conventionally been used to enhance the length, thickness, and fullness of natural eyelashes.”An adhesive used to join the ends of the clusters of artificial hairs to the knotless base.
Knotless base
(Claim 1, Claim 19)		“Various embodiments concern artificial eyelashes and, more specifically, clusters of artificial eyelash extensions that can be applied to the underside of an individual's natural eyelashes.”A base without knots that is part of each lash extension and is designed to attach to the underside of natural eyelashes.
Plurality of clusters
(Claim 1, Claim 19)		“Clusters of artificial lashes have conventionally been used to enhance the length, thickness, and fullness of an individual's natural eyelashes.”Multiple groups, each containing two or more artificial hairs.
Second adhesive
(Claim 1, Claim 19)		“Various embodiments concern artificial eyelashes and, more specifically, clusters of artificial eyelash extensions that can be applied to the underside of an individual's natural eyelashes.”An adhesive used to attach the knotless bases of the lash extensions to the underside of natural eyelashes.

Patent Family

Patent Family

File Wrapper

The dossier documents provide a comprehensive record of the patent's prosecution history - including filings, correspondence, and decisions made by patent offices - and are crucial for understanding the patent's legal journey and any challenges it may have faced during examination.

  • Date

    Description

  • Get instant alerts for new documents

US12171290

LASHIFY INC
Application Number
US18199288
Filing Date
May 18, 2023
Status
Granted
Expiry Date
Jul 27, 2037
External Links
Slate, USPTO, Google Patents