These are liquid hair conditioners, either with or without oil. They give hair a wet greasy look it it contains oil. They do not give much hold but make hair look less dry and more manageable. Hair tonic was big as a men's grooming product during much of the early 20th century. Many have a pronounced scent, often Bey Rum, and were a barbershop staple in the 40s and 50s. Every haircut was finished off with a generous dose of hair tonic. An example is Vitalis.
