A Gentleman’s Guide to Hair Tonics!

Like most haircare products, the main function of hair tonic is to make the hair look better and easier to style.

In the 1950s and 60s, hair tonics were in widespread use but many people have sincereplaced tonics with gel, mousse and a variety of other styling products.  However, with a return to traditional barbering techniques, hair tonics are enjoying something of a renaissance.

When hair tonic is applied, it makes the hair glossier, something which people generally view as a sign of healthy hair. The oils in the hair tonic also help hold the hair in place making it easier to style. 

Hair tonics are also often referred to as “friction lotions” as they can be used to give clients an invigorating scalp massage.  Massage helps to stimulate blood circulation to the hair follicles, while the tonic itself moisturises and conditions both the hair and scalp.

Once the tonic has been applied, the hair can be styled, with the tonic holding the hair in place and giving it a shiny appearance.  This technique will leave the hair feeling full with a bit of hold and the scalp invigorated.   



Summary of Uses

• To Style and Condition the Hair
• To Fragrance the Hair
• To Invigorate the Scalp

Instructions for Use

1. Brush the client’s hair straight forward.  
2. Apply a liberal dose of their preferred hair tonic.
3. Using the pads of your fingertips proceed to work the tonic into the scalp.  Spend a few minutes doing this quite vigorously but never to the point of discomfort or irritation.  Do NOT use your fingernails as they can scratch and damage the scalp.
4. Brush it into the desired style with Jack Dean military brushes.