Online - February 17, 2005

Pocket This

Aveda Control Tape

Let’s see: gum, floss, mini bottle of Listerine … Congratulations! You’ve actually managed to turn your tiny clutch into a mobile oral-hygiene unit.

Alas, no matter how bright your smile, it’s not likely to make many appearances when your hair is afflicted by winter static, summer frizzies, or general unruliness.

Aveda’s nifty new Control Tape can ease those midday powder-room shockers. The clear tape transforms easily into liquid styling magic. Just break off a few inches, moisten with a bit of tap water, and watch it transform into hair gel. (To put it in terms you’ll understand: Think super-powered dissolvable breath strips.)

Made of organic flaxseed, aloe, and black tea, the tape purports to grip your locks, boost shine, and protect against dryness. (No word yet whether it’ll make you skinny, rich, and famous, too.) It comes in a palm-sized, flat-as-a-credit-card plastic dispenser, so you’ll have no trouble cramming it into the medicine chest that is your bag.

Now there’s something to smile about.

Available at Aveda salons, spas, and stores. To find locations, go to aveda.com.