The 5 Best New Hairstyling Products—and Their Humble Origins
Once upon a time, hairspray was sticky, gel left your hair looking drenched, and a blow-dryer took hours to work. Not anymore!
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.
Keep Reading: Get Oprah's Hairstylist Andre Walker's Favorite Easy Party Hairdo
Published 11/18/2011