From Problem to Product: How Cherie Monson Invented a Game-Changing Hair Tool
Interview by Heather Anderson
Cherie Monson never set out to become an entrepreneur, let alone an inventor. But when she saw a gap in the market for a universal, travel-friendly hair styling tool, her creativity and resourcefulness kicked in. With a little help from her family and a deep-seated determination, Cherie brought her invention, now called the GentleStyle Brush, to life. In this conversation, Cherie shares how her father's influence, her battle with breast cancer, and her network of fellow inventors shaped her journey from concept to creation.
Your journey into the world of invention began with a personal need for a better hair styling tool. Can you share the moment you realized there was a gap in the market, and what led you to believe you could fill it?
When I started coloring my hair, I stopped doing permanent waves, and my hair became straight again. After trying several products and tools, I found a blow dryer diffuser attachment that worked well, but it wasn’t universal, especially for travel. I needed to create something that could fit on every blow dryer. The idea was born from there—my first thought was a silicone sleeve. When I took it on vacation, I had a rectangle blow dryer that didn’t work with a round silicone sleeve, and that’s when it hit me: I needed to put a diffuser on a handle that worked with any blow dryer, so I created a tool that’s not just universal but also more effective than what I had before.
Growing up with a father who was an inventor, how did his influence shape your perspective on solving problems and creating new products?
I grew up in a pretty frugal family, and my dad was always making things out of nothing when he couldn’t find or afford something. That really stuck with me. I thought everyone did this—it was second nature to me. I was always impressed by how he solved problems creatively, and that mindset naturally rubbed off on me.
Facing a breast cancer diagnosis is a life-altering experience. How did this personal challenge pivot your focus toward actualizing your idea for the GentleStyle Brush?
I had already applied for the patent in 2019, about a year before my breast cancer diagnosis in 2020. At that time, I was focused on licensing the product, but when COVID hit, it became nearly impossible to get companies interested without sales history. Around the same time, I was going through radiation, and afterward, a friend suggested I sell on Amazon. It seemed overwhelming at first, but I knew I needed to stop working my stressful job and pursue something that would allow me to prioritize my health. About six months later, I realized my product could also help with hair loss and detangling when I started losing hair in my brush and in the shower post-radiation., After using my brush prototype, there were only 3 strands left in the brush, and I immediately stopped losing hair in the shower. I was amazed and was even more motivated to move forward with it.
Navigating the world of patents and prototypes can be daunting. What advice would you give to aspiring inventors who are just starting this process?
I started with a design patent because, after consulting with my patent attorney, I realized a utility patent wasn’t the best fit for my product. A design patent protects the specific look and design of my tool, and we felt it had a better chance of holding up in court if there was ever an infringement issue. My advice is to do your research and work closely with a good patent attorney who can guide you through the nuances of different types of patents. And don’t be afraid to ask for referrals—I found my patent attorney through my financial planner!
“...hearing other women talk about their hair loss due to radiation damage and required medications made me realize that my product could help. It’s not just about vanity—feeling good about your appearance can be a big part of healing.”
Can you walk us through the development process of the GentleStyle Brush, especially when it came to finding the right manufacturer? What were some of the biggest challenges, and what lessons did you learn along the way?
Initially, my nephew helped me 3D print different versions of the GentleStyle Brush prototype, which I tested with friends and family. I had a clear vision, but once I added a new attachment to the tool, my original design partner, Proto Labs, could no longer support the changes. That’s when I began reaching out to other manufacturers—many of whom either didn’t respond or weren’t interested in working with a solo inventor. One manufacturer seemed like the right fit, but at the last minute, they backed out, saying they didn’t specialize in consumer products. That was a big setback.
Eventually, I found a sourcing rep through The Women Inventors Club who connected me with a manufacturer in South Korea. They were able to handle both the tooling and production within my budget and to my standards. It took nine months to find the right partner, but it was worth it. The biggest lesson I learned was to be patient and persistent. The right match can save you a lot of money and frustration—and make all the difference in bringing your vision to life.
Your tool is not just about styling hair, it’s also about empowering those with hair issues due to medical treatments. How important is this aspect of empathy and support in your business philosophy?
It’s incredibly important. I’m a breast cancer survivor, and I know how hard it can be to deal with hair loss during treatment. I belong to a WebMD Facebook group for breast cancer survivors, and hearing other women talk about their hair loss due to radiation damage and required medications made me realize that my product could help. It’s not just about vanity—feeling good about your appearance can be a big part of healing. I also want to use my platform to promote early detection of breast cancer, and I’m partnering with an organization called HerScan to bring affordable breast ultrasounds to women in need.
You’ve created a community around CLM Creations. How has connecting with fellow inventors influenced your business?
Connecting with other inventors has been invaluable. I belong to The Women Inventors Club, and the support from that group has kept me going. We share advice, resources, and encouragement, and it’s made a huge difference. Being an inventor can feel isolating, especially when friends or family don’t understand what you’re doing. Having a community of like-minded people who are going through the same things has been a lifesaver.
Looking ahead, what are your aspirations for CLM Creations? Are there new innovations or expansions you’re excited about?
Looking ahead, I’m excited to take everything I learned in 2024 and build on it. While waiting for my trademark to be approved, I used the year to do my own grassroots research—sharing my story and gifting brushes at events like Miami Swim Week, the IBS Show, and FounderMade LA. It gave me a chance to talk directly with potential customers and better understand what resonates with them.
After a challenging year on Amazon, I made the decision not to restock my old inventory, even after completing a full rebrand and new packaging. Instead, I’m focusing on smaller, more curated platforms that support beauty founders and innovative products. I’m also exploring digital ways to tell my story and demo the brush—especially to mirror the success I’ve had selling one-on-one at the previously mentioned HerScan Ultrasound Events. The most exciting development so far is that I recently met with buyers from TJ Maxx and am still in discussions about a potential partnership. I’m hopeful and energized about what’s next.
Ultimately, I’d love to build enough sales history to approach a larger company about licensing the product. If I can get to that point, I can focus on other things while earning a royalty check. But for now, I’m letting my spiritual higher power guide me.
For those inspired by your journey and looking to embark on their own entrepreneurial ventures, what wisdom can you share about resilience and innovation?
The most important thing is having a network. Without The Women Inventors Club, I would have quit a long time ago. Their support has been crucial—whether it’s finding a manufacturer or just offering encouragement. You need people who understand what you’re going through because not everyone will get it. And don’t be afraid to listen to your gut. My whole journey started because I had a feeling I couldn’t ignore, and that’s kept me going, even when it’s been hard.
Where can readers find the GentleStyle Brush?
You can find the GentleStyle Brush on our website, Instagram Shop and soon to be on The Grommet. Be sure to check out our website as well for more information on how this game-changing tool can transform your hair routine.
You can also find Cherie Monson on The M List, The Mamahood’s searchable database of mom-recommended resources, or connect and collaborate with her inside The Club membership for women founders.