Is Hair Spray a Viable Substitute for Fixatives in Artwork Preservation?

When it comes to preserving artwork, particularly those created with charcoal and pastel, fixatives have long been considered essential. However, artists looking for affordable and accessible alternatives have turned to hair spray as a potential solution. This article explores the effectiveness of hair spray as a substitute for fixatives, its advantages and disadvantages, and why it may or may not be a suitable choice for different artists.

Effectiveness and Success

Many artists have found hair spray to be a useful fixative, especially when addressing the issue of finger smudging and adding gloss to their works. It has proven to be effective in keeping charcoal and pastel work from being tampered with by fingers and in enhancing the overall appearance of the art through a polished finish. The satisfaction derived from these results has made hair spray a popular choice among budget-conscious artists. However, it is important to note that the general consensus is not to use hair spray with oil-based pastels as it may interfere with their preservation.

Concerns and Challenges

Smell: One of the primary issues with using hair spray as a fixative is the odor. The overwhelming scent can be very unappealing and can linger in the air for an extended period. Artists who find it difficult to tolerate the smell may need to leave the room or the workspace until the odor dissipates. This inconvenience can be a significant drawback, especially for those working in shared spaces or homes.

Long-term Fixative Properties: Another concern is the long-term stability of hair spray as a fixative. Many users report that hair spray is not designed for long-term retention and may lead to yellowing of the colors over time. Additionally, there have been complaints about sheets of artwork sticking together after being coated with hair spray, which can ruin the integrity of the artwork.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

In recent years, there have been growing concerns about the environmental impact of aerosol hair sprays. Products that were banned in some regions due to environmental concerns have raised further questions about their suitability. Moreover, older aerosols were found to be potential carcinogens and were subsequently banned. This highlights the importance of choosing reformulated aerosol products from reputable brands, such as Aqua Net, which are designed for quick-drying and provide strong holding power suitable for various art applications.

Economic Considerations

Despite the potential drawbacks, hair spray remains a popular choice for budget-conscious artists. The larger can size and more affordable pricing make it a cost-effective alternative to specialized fixatives, which can be significantly more expensive. The fragrant smell of hair spray is often seen as an added bonus, providing a pleasant aroma in the workspace. While it is true that Krylon's Workable Fixatif can offer superior holding power, it may come at a higher price and should be used with proper ventilation to avoid any adverse effects.

Conclusion

While hair spray can be an effective and economical substitute for fixatives in certain scenarios, artists should carefully consider the potential drawbacks such as odor, long-term preservation issues, and environmental concerns. Forbest results, it is crucial to use reformulated, high-quality aerosol products and to be mindful of the specific needs of their art. Balancing cost and effectiveness with the quality of preservation is key to making an informed decision.