Hair spray, according to Wikipedia: "(also hair lacquer, spritz, or sticky water) is a common cosmetic product that is sprayed onto hair to keep it stiff or in a certain style. The spray can be dispensed from a pump or aerosol spraynozzle."
"It is sprayed to hold styles for a long period. It may leave hair feeling "crunchy" unless brushed out. Excessive use or lack of washing after hair spray may lead to dull or damaged hair and dandruff."
"Hair spray was first developed and manufactured in 1948 by Chase Products Company, based in Broadview, Illinois."
Below are two of the Mexican actresses I wanted to look like as a kid.
I had to carry a small bottle of it in my purse because I had swim class or PE and God forbid my hair was flat for the next period. What was that product called? Oh yes, Aqua Net (I used the one with the white bottle because it had the strong hold).
In high school, I took it to next level and had an empty can to use as a roller, because the circumference was the ideal size. I would put the can of Aqua Net under my bangs and I would spray them with another can. My bangs were so long, they would go down to the tip of my mouth. No, I could not see, but I looked cool, or so I thought.
Today, hair spray has improved. It's still sticky, still smells funny and it's still extremely flammable, but some of its ingredients have changed, so we don't make the hole in the ozone any bigger. Our hairstyles have thankfully changed to more natural looks that make hair spray optional and not a must.
I do a lot of bridal and period-piece hair, so I use it on my clients a lot more than a non-hairdresser would use it on themselves. I am interested in hearing how it was used in generations before me, like in the 60's. I want to know how long it took those women to get those perfect do's. If any reader has some insights or interesting stories,
please feel free to share them with me.
Below are pictures of two actresses from the show Mad Men, which is based in the 1960's.
