Marc Jacobs' fall 2009 show proved that the '80s are back. However, according to Bumble and bumble creative director Howard McLaren, '80s hair products are not. "The `80s gave gel a bad name," he says. "We've been working on our new gels for five years because we wanted to do something other than what we had in the '80s." So how do Bumble and bumble's new Gel and Gellac (available March 9 at Bb. network salons, and March 15 online) differ from previous incarnations? The Bb. Gel contains a new polymer with flexible strength, ample coverage, natural shine, and memory, plus it's alcohol-free, so you won't have to deal with that icky '80s frizz. The gel also provides a stronger hold than a mousse or spray, but has the same versatility; you can style sleek, sculpted curls or brush through for a soft, touchable finish.
Of course, if you're thinking of doing spikes, slicked-back strands, or head-hugging Marcel waves, you might dare to try Gellac. "The product is so strong, we were only going to give it to professionals at first," says Bumble and bumble president Peter Lichtenthal. "But because there are people who like to experiment and who like to be creative and do extreme looks, we decided to release it to the public." Inspired by Gafquat 732, a raw material with industrial strength, Gellac leaves the same lacquer-hard finish, instantly freezing strands in place. Trust us: Your hair will look—and feel—rock solid with this stuff, so keep in mind that a little goes a long way!
