What Hairstyle Was Successfully Patented in the 1970s​?

Everybody would think that hairdos are in the sphere of fashion and individual style rather than patent protection. However, the 1970s validated that even a most simple styling method would garner formal protection by the United States Patent Office. This is a rare milestone in haircut history when a specific hairstyling method was granted patent protection, inextricably linking innovation and personal grooming.

The tale shows how innovation can come about in the most unlikely corners, converting a standard styling method into intellectual property. To those interested in the combination between beauty trends and historical precedents in law, this patent is a singular instance when grooming crossed paths with formal approval. Among legal patents for hairstyles, few are as memorable as this one from the 1970s. So, allow Frank’s Gentlemen’s Salon to take you on a trip to the past! 

The Comb-Over Makes Its Legal Debut

That hairstyle which accomplished such a great feat was a comb-over, or a “Method of Concealing Partial Baldness”. Donald J. Smith and Frank J. Smith were granted U.S. Patent No. 4,022,227 on May 10, 1977, for their methodical means of treating male pattern baldness by arrangement of hair. So, what hairstyle was successfully patented in the 1970s? The comb-over - an unexpected but inventive time.

Their method was a specific three-step system, which effectively became a patented hairstyle in the 1970s. Initially, what hair there was on one side of the head would be separated into certain sections. Next, there would be a comb over those sections over the bare spot in a certain sequence. Then certain styling products would be used to hold the hair in place throughout the day.

What Made This Technique Patentable?

The Smith brothers' creation qualified for patent protection's basic requirements with evident novelty and non-obviousness. Although men had combed over patches of hairlessness for hundreds of years, the Smiths had a written system with step-by-step instructions and precise measures.

Their patent application detailed specific angles, sectioning method, and product applications which transformed an informal styling technique into a repeatable process. The process included specific directives for cutting hair in sections, directional combing concept, and maintenance procedures which differentiated it from expedient hair loss cover-ups.

The patent office found it novel or worthy of protection, since it determined that the brothers had indeed come up with something more than common knowledge or an obvious method. In the context of iconic haircuts of the 70s, the patented comb-over certainly holds a unique place.

Commercial Success and Critical Reception

Though it had secured patent protection, no large-scale sales success was translated for the comb-over patented design. Its approach was largely a novelty product instead of a mass-applied treatment for baldness. Most men with baldness continued in standard use or tried other alternatives like a hair transplant or accepting their naturally occurring appearances.

The patent's low level of commercial success reflected wider cultural attitudes towards male grooming in the late 1970s and early 1980s. As much as there was increased openness towards styling products and styling for men in the decade, advanced hairstyling frequently hindered its social acceptability instead of promoting it. While the comb-over didn’t top the charts of famous 1970s hairstyles, its story became a staple of trivia and novelty lists.

Permanent Impact on Hair Heritage

The comb-over patent is more than a curious piece of legal triumph. It was a moment when individual coiffure met formal innovation in a way which hinted even simple styling methodology might be treated scientifically.

The patent also illustrated shifting perceptions about hair loss and masculine looks. Instead of viewing baldness as an accepted norm, the Smiths attempted a systematic fix, mirrored increased concern about look management and self-presentation in this period.

The patent itself continues to be interesting for those fascinated by unusual intellectual property cases and developments in grooming. It is a reminder for everyone that innovation is possible when we overcome everyday problems, even when in hindsight those problems are obvious.

You might not need a comb-over, but visit the photo gallery on our website to see our business in action, and book an appointment soon!