Imagine Sleeping Beauty fell asleep a hundred years ago and woke up today. His world would be drastically different. But at least one thing would have stayed the same: I could find glitter. In the early 1900s, this oil-based hair finishing product was common in hair salons and homes. Then gradually, with the changing times, the glitter disappeared from the shelves of stores and homes. Fast forward a century, glitter is once again recognized as a product that can add subtle shine and definition to hair.
A hundred years ago, oil and fragrance were the main ingredients in glitter. They blended easily at home or in a barbershop. Castor oil and olive oil were often selected to enhance the shine of hair, and essential oil provided the fragrance. But other ingredients used in the glitter were not as acceptable by today’s standards. Sometimes petroleum jelly, lard, tallow, and mineral oil were added. Whatever the recipe used, glitter was considered the best product to soften and enhance the beard and mustache. It was also popular with men and women for adding shine and flexibility to their hair.
Today, glitter formulas are diverse and complex, but they are all meant to add shine and definition to hair. Bumble & Bumble’s creamy glitter is designed to add beautiful shine and subtle definition. Garnier Fructis takes a high-shine, strong hold approach with its glitter. Joico produces a waxy glitter for separation and high shine. These companies generally combine synthetic and natural ingredients.
If you are curious about how a glitter would work on your hair, you can try one of these hairdressing or retail products. Or you can make an all-natural glitter yourself. Here’s an easy recipe adapted from an old formula.
You will need 4 teaspoons of castor oil, 1 teaspoon of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of glycerin, and 2 drops of your choice of essential oil. Mix ingredients (and always shake before use). Put a dime-sized amount in the palm of your hand, rub your hands together, and gently spread the glitter through dry or damp hair. If you have long hair, spread more product on the ends. If more glitter is needed, repeat applications with dime-sized amounts because using too much glitter can give a greasy rather than shiny appearance. When you’re done applying glitter, continue styling as desired.