Ah edges! The making and breaking of a beauty look is often predicated on the status of ones edges being laid. Many of us graduated from the days of laying our edges with JAM, and Ampro PRO STYL to edge control. Although, there’s no shade to those who still rely on the classics.
These handy pomades and gels, known collectively as edge control products are a godsend for styles that require a sleek hair hairline and/or baby hair. However, not all edge controls are created equally, because not all hair textures are the same. Because hair textures vary tremendously in our community, finding the best edge control for your hair and desired level of hold, is really a matter of trial and error.
Honestly, you don’t know struggle until you’ve been on a New York subway platform in the middle of Summer, and you fall victim to edge reversion because your product failed. To get you started on the journey of discovery for the best product for you, we’ve rounded up some of the best edge control products available.
01
Aveda Control Paste
For non-greasy, non-flaky, medium hold, with a matte finish, this is a great product.
02
Creme of Nature Argan Oil Perfect Edges
For those who have experienced breakage at their hairline, the black version of this edge control helps to make them look a little fuller, provided that you have black hair. The downside of this brand of edge control is that it leaves hair sticky, and greasy after use. If you intend on changing styles, you’ll have to wash it out. If you’re a natural girl, who does wash and go’s on the regular, then this can work for you.
03
Curls Blueberry Bliss Control Paste
Curls has a loyal fan base, from professionals to novices.
04
Design Essentials Honey & Shea Edge Tamer
Essentials has a few edge control products, but users are loving the Honey & Shea Edge Tamer, which now also has almonds and avocado. They also have a Max Hold version that promises a longer lasting hold.
05
Ebin New York 24 Hour Edge Tamer
This product is recommended for coarser hair types for styles that require maximum hold, with little to no reversion for the longest time.
06
ECO Styler Gel
We know, we know. Some people have canceled this product, because of the harsh ingredients, but some still swear by it for maximum hold, especially when paired with a thicker pomade.
07
Hawaiian Silky Argan Oil Hydrating Sleek Edge
The main selling point here is that there is no sticky, or greasy residue after use, so it’s a safer bet if you’re planning on changing styles, especially if you’re relaxed.
08
Hicks Edges
People either love this product or hate it. From what we can gather, the trick is to mix it with a thicker pomade-like product.
09
Loc N Twist Wave Edge Gel
Atlanta-based stylists swear by Loc N’s Twist Wave Edge Gel. This multi-use gel is manufactured, imported, and exported by a black-owned company based out of Atlanta and New Jersey.
10
Mane Choice Laid Back Effortlessly Growth Stimulating Gel
Not only are people raving about the hold, but there’s the added benefit of healthy hair ingredients like avocado oil.
11
Mielle Organics Edge Gel
For styles that require a softer hold, give this organic product a try.
12
Oribe Original Pomade
The product boasts a strong and workable hold.
13
Tancho Stick High Grade Tique Pomade Stick
People have been quietly using Tancho for a while and stan for it.
14
TGIN Smooth and Hold Edge Control
Thank God It’s Natural promotes smooth polished edges, and also lots of natural, healthy ingredients like vitamin E, omega-6 fatty acids, and proteins.
