I’ve Tried Almost Every Edge Control Product Going—These 6 Actually Work

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(Image credit: @fisayolonge)

Slicked edges and baby hairs have long been a staple of afro and textured hairstyles. Whether you love wearing wigs, weaves or go au-natural, in order to finish a look and give it a little je ne sais quoi, for coily hair wearers, a slicked edge is a must. 

Goopy, sticky and shiny edge-control gels can be found in abundance in drugstores and afro-hair shops but when buying an edge-control product the question remains: How do you choose one that’s right for you?

Be it gel formulas and edge-laying options for those embracing their coils or, for those of us who love the ability to jump between chic, low buns, with slicked edges to fashion-forward canerows with laid edges to match, the product options out there are seemingly endless. 

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(Image credit: @chrissyford)

So, what's the solution? I find that a great place to start is often right at the root, with your texture and porosity. Depending on how thick your hair is—that is strand-wise rather than length—the texture of the edge control and level of hold you need will vary, as will the formula base. Have finer coils? Then a lightweight water-based gel is your best buy. As with oil-based gels and waxes, the kinker and thicker the better.

If like me you know that managing to maintain perfectly slicked edges that last all day in the face of heat, humidity and the everyday bustle relies heavily on the smooth application of an edge gel, but are struggling to pick just one, fear not. Below I've listed some of my favourite edge control products for the sleekest finish.

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(Image credit: @michelleamo_)

Shop my favourite edge gels all textures:

1. Best For Thicker Coils: Ruka Hold Me Down Gel 

2. Best For All Coil And Curl Types: Keracare Wax Stick 

3. Best For Damaged Coils: Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Edge Gel 

4. Best For Dry And Brittle Coils: Carol's Daughter Black Vanilla Edge Control

5. Best For Thinner Curls: Pattern Strong Hold Gel

6.Best For All Hair Types: Schwarzkopf Got2b Glued 4 Brows & Edges 2 in 1 Vegan Gel

Shop more edge laying essentials: 

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(Image credit: @michelleamo_)

1. Pattern Edge Control 

2.Kitsch Multi-Way Sleep Scar

3.Dyson Supersonic™ Hair Dryer

Up Next: I've Done the Research—These Are the Best Blow Dryers for Afro Hair