The invention relates to styling agents, comprising—with respect to the weight thereof—0.1 to 20 wt % of strengthening polymer(s) and 0.1 to 5 wt % of esters of the formula (I), in which R1 stands for —H or CH3, R2 stands for a straight-chain or branched alkyl group having 7 to 15 carbon atoms, and n stands for an integer from the group 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8. Said styling agents effect significantly improved curl retention, in particular significantly improved high-humidity curl retention, thus a higher degree of curl retention even in a humid environment in addition to further improved hold and improved hair feel, such as texture and combability.