There are three things you’ll always find in my purse: Vaseline, gum, and edge control. A year ago, that last item would’ve been hair gel but I have since come to understand traditional gel’s alcohol content doesn’t always leave my edges in good hands, as Dennis Haysbert might say. And more importantly — or less, depending on your priorities — I’ve come to realize there are edge control products that actually work just as well as gel but are healthier for your hair, which is important because we all know strong edges are hard to come by.
A well– (or not so well) tamed edge can completely take one’s look from messy to polished which is why I am always on the lookout for a gel or paste that will give me the best hold for the longest amount of time without the buildup (because as an edge connoisseur I will not hesitate to reapply throughout the day). During the past six months I’ve come across four products that have yet to fail me when I need to tame my edges, which is why I pretty much keep one at the office, one in my purse, one in the gym bag, and one at the house.
Loc N Loc Twist Wave Edge Gel
Loc N is the product that actually made me kiss gel goodbye. When I did the big chop in October my beautician put this product on my edges to smooth them down and I was blown away. Never had a non-alcoholic product offered such control and shine, plus I never really needed to reapply the gel throughout the day — yes it’s that good! Loc N is also a bit pricey at $25 for a 16-ounce container, but I promise it’s worth the cost.
Creme of Nature Perfect Edges
Creme of Nature’s Argan Oil Perfect Edges is the second edge control product to make me a believer. I’m actually a fan of this brand’s entire Argan Oil line and the edge control did not fail on its promise to provide firm hold without flaking, like most gels do. Though most days the regular strength product is enough for me, I have started using the extra hold to give even longer lasting control, especially on humid days or when doing a slick ponytail. (Note: I did apply a curl gel to smooth most of my hair in the photo above but Perfect Edges was used to smooth the hair in the middle part and around the perimeter of my hair.
Curls Blueberry Bliss Curl Control Paste
Curls’ Blueberry Bliss Curl Control Paste is the same thick consistency as Creme of Nature’s edge control and contains argan oil as well, along with mango and shea butter which add much-appreciated shine. The organic blueberry extract also gives the paste an amazing scent and I’ve been able to use this product not just for smoothing unruly edges but even for sculpting updos when my ‘fro won’t cooperate.
Mielle Organics Edge Gel
Initially, I was hesitant to try Mielle Organics’ new edge gel because, unlike Curls and Creme of Nature, the gel has a thinner consistency that made me question whether it could provide enough hold. But as they say, don’t judge a book by it’s cover — or a product by it’s texture. This edge gel, made with honey and ginger which stimulate hair growth, is just as the manufacturer described it, “non-gummy.” I enjoy the smoothness of the application and the light hold it provides, which it should be noted held up this morning in a downpour without an umbrella. If you only have a few flyaways threatening to get the best of your ‘do, this product from the African American-owned beauty brand will do you good.
