The 5 Best New Hairstyling Products—and Their Humble Origins

Then

In the 1920s, the American cabaret performer Josephine Baker popularized a short, slick hairstyle and became the first African-American celebrity to endorse a beauty product. Her gel, called Bakerfix, likely contained greasy brilliantine, heavy oils, and alcohol.

Now

Tresemmé Curl Spray Gel ($5, drugstores) uses strong-hold polymers that fight frizz and stay in place even in high humidity without making hair crunchy. Plus, the liquid formula doesn't leave hair—or hands—sticky.

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