Imagine that Sleeping Beauty fell asleep a hundred years ago and woke up today. Her world would be drastically different. But at least one thing would have remained the same: she would be able to find glitter. In the early 1900s, this oil-based hair finishing product was common in barbershops and homes. Then gradually, with the changing of the times, glitter disappeared from store shelves and homes. Fast-forward a century, and glitter is recognized once again as a product that can add shine and subtle definition to hair.

One hundred years ago, oil and fragrance were the main ingredients in glitter. They blended easily at home or in a barbershop. Castor and olive oil were often selected to enhance the shine of the hair, with the essential oil providing the fragrance. But other ingredients used in glitter weren’t as acceptable by today’s standards. Vaseline, lard, tallow, and mineral oil were sometimes added. Regardless of the recipe used, glitter was considered the best product for smoothing and enhancing beards and mustaches. It was also popular with both men and women for adding shine and flexibility to their hair.

Today’s glitter formulas are diverse and complex, but all are intended to add shine and some definition to hair. Bumble & Bumble Creamy Glitter is designed to add beautiful sparkle and subtle definition. Garnier Fructis takes a high-shine, strong-hold approach with its glitter. Joico makes a waxy glitter for separation and high shine. These companies generally combine synthetic and natural ingredients.

If you’re curious about how glitter would work on your hair, you can try one of these salon or retail products. Or, you can make all-natural glitter yourself. Here is 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 essential oil of your choice. Mix ingredients together (and always shake before use). Place a dime-sized amount in the palm of your hand, rub hands together and gently spread glitter through dry or damp hair. If you have long hair, apply more product to the ends. If more glitter is needed, repeat applications with dime-sized amounts because using too much glitter can give a greasy appearance instead of a shiny one. When you have finished applying the glitter, continue styling as desired.