Last Updated on April 10, 2023 by Verna Meachum

Edge control gels are different from traditional hair gels, so it’s important to understand what makes them unique before making a purchase.

In this blog post, we will discuss the ingredients that make edge control gels different from traditional hair gels, and what factors you should consider when shopping for the best natural hair edge control gel.

Hair is made up of many different characteristics, including the curl pattern, texture, diameter and length.

The versatility and diversity of Black hair is one of the most beautiful things about it. We all want our edges to lay down flat, but finding the right product to do the job can be tricky.

Black hair has a wide range of textures, from curly to tightly coiled to kinky coily to relaxed hair, as well as varying hair characteristics like density and porosity.

One of the most prominent unique staples in Black hairstyles and culture is to lay down edges (or baby hairs). The art of laying edges dates back to the 1920s.

Josephine Baker was a pioneer of the look, which she artfully sported a slicked-back short hairstyle with thick set edges as early as 1923.

For years Black women have been using different methods to lay down their edges, including edge control gels.

Around the perimeter of your hair are tiny, very fine, wispy hairs known as baby hairs. They’re common on children (hence the phrase “baby”) but may also stay with you into adulthood.

These hair fibers are short in length, weaker than other scalp hair, and can be difficult to manage. They can be unruly, sticking up in all directions. This is where edge control gel comes in and can be a woman’s best friend.

The best natural hair edge control gels are designed to lay down your baby hairs and help them stay in place. But with so many on the market, how do you know which one to choose?

So before we get into the nitty-gritty of what makes a good edge control gel, let’s first understand the difference between an edge control gels and a traditional hair gel.

Let’s take a look.

Edge Control Gel vs. Traditional Hair Gel

Hairstyling gels are popular among consumers. They are generally thick and semi-transparent, containing styling polymer and thickeners.

Edge control gel is different from any other traditional hairstyling gel. It is more viscous, having a firm and jelly texture.

The reason for the higher viscosity is to avoid any stripping off the scalp or hair shaft. Moreover, it aims to provide a firm secure hold to hair fibers.

New Generation Formulations for Edge Control Tamer

Traditionally, styling gels or creams contain synthetic polymers to fix or hold the hairstyle. These polymers offer a good firm hold, however, the drawback is polymeric build-up and excessive flaking.

To prevent this, new generation edge control gels include natural, green, and environment-friendly hair styling ingredients. Consumers are looking for these green friendly alternative ingredients.

Our Choice of Ingredients for Edge Control

Gel formulation may contain various ingredients or additives. Some ingredients are potent and are active to control the baby hair.

Natural ingredients are in high demand and are preferred because of their environmentally friendly nature and sustainability.

The choice of ingredients is crucial to formulate an edge control gel. The following are some of the best ingredients in an edge control gel as well as why they are found in a good edge control gel:

Jamaican Castor Oil

This is a unique natural ingredient with superb hair fixing and holding potential. That’s why it is often used in edge control gels and styling pomades. Besides its hair-holding properties, it also imparts amazing gloss and controls frizz.

Hydrogenated Castor Oil

Hydrogenated castor oil is a viscous paste that also provides hold to hair fibers. It also provides a special texture to the formulation and sensorial feel during application.

Beeswax

Amazing nature: beeswax provides several benefits to hair as well as skin. It is an excellent emollient and moisturizing agent.

Quite often used in hair styling products because it boosts curl definition and provides a nice hair hold.

Natural Butter

Plant-derived waxes and butter are popular among consumers because of their multifunctional benefits.

Shea butter, Cocoa butter, and mango butter are good examples incorporated in hair styling products.

Butter provides special emollience as well as texture to hair.

On baby hair, they control the edge line along with frizz. Fiber strands stay aligned offering a beautiful shape.

Can Edge Control Gel Damage Hair?

It is perfectly fine to use edge control products on your baby hairs. These formulations have slightly acidic pH and hence match the hair and scalp pH level.

Therefore, it does not pose any damage or harsh impact on the scalp and hair shaft. It can also be used several times throughout the day or night to keep the edges under control and in check.

The same edge control gel can also be applied to other parts of your hair; there is nothing wrong with that.

Ingredients to avoid in a edge control gel

Determine what components are used in the product’s formulation by reading the ingredients list.

Avoid an edge control gel if it contains drying alcohol or high levels of synthetic polymers. These polymers are known to cause severe polymeric build up and eventually flaking.

Other ingredients that should be avoided are: propylene glycol, formaldehyde, and artificial fragrances.

When and How to Use It

Edge control gel should be utilized on dry hair. However, follow the instructions on the product as some products may differ.

step by step on how to use edge control gel:

1. Start with clean, dry hair.
2. If you have just shampooed your hair, make sure it is completely dry before proceeding to the next step.
3. Apply a small amount of gel to your fingertips or styling brush.
4. Apply the gel along your hairline and edges, using a light touch.
5. You can use your fingers or a brush to evenly distribute the product along your hairline.
6. Do not apply excessive quantity because it may cause build up on the hair.
7. Style your hair as usual.
8. Finally, you can use an edge styling tool to help shape and lay the baby hairs down.

It is recommended to use only 1-2 times per day. The repeated application does not imply you will get a stronger hold. Because, if used repeatedly, the accumulation can cause a build up and clog the hair.

Tools to use for edge control gel

There are a variety of tools that can be used when applying an edge control gel.

Fingers: This is the most common tool to use when applying an edge control gel, as it gives you more precision and allows for better control.

Bristle Brush: This is a 100% pure boar soft bristles that keeps edges laid and smooth. The small, compact size is perfect for on-the-go touchups.

3 Piece Teasing Brush with Dual Edge Brush and Comb Bristle Hair: This is a 3 piece set that includes a double sided edge brush, bristle brush, and rat tail comb. With this set, you have everything you need to achieve the perfect edges.

Double Sided Edge Control Hair Brush Comb: This can be used to help tame flyaways and baby hairs. It can also help in the precise distribution of product evenly along your hairline.

Edge Fixer Brush: This edge fixer brush is a 4-In-1 tool that has a boar brush, two combs, and a spatula for simple product application.

Edge Control Brush with Pointed End: This edge control brush is designed with a pointed end that helps to part hair and allows for more precision when applying product.

How to remove it

To remove an edge control gel, simply wash your hair with a mild shampoo and conditioner.

You may need to use a clarifying shampoo if you have used a lot of product or if you have used it multiple times in a day.

The clarifying shampoo will help remove any build up that may have accumulated on your hair.

After washing your hair, style it as usual.

Leaving Edge Control Gel Overnight

It is OK to leave this edge control gel on hair overnight. However, the key is to always look at the ingredient listing, as certain formulations may also contain drying alcohols.

These drying alcohols are added to solubilize ingredients. Upon evaporation, the active molecules settle and set the hairs.

These drying alcohols are known to make hair dry and brittle, so avoid leaving drying alcohol gel overnight.

How to make the edge control gel last longer

For people who sweat, how can you make an edge control gel last longer?

There are a few things that you can do to help make the edge control gel last longer.

🔷 First, avoid using excessive amounts of product. A little goes a long way when it comes to edge control gel.

🔷 Apply the gel evenly and make a uniform film on all sections of the baby hairs.

🔷 Make sure that your hair is completely dry before applying the product.

🔷 If your hair is even slightly damp, the gel will not adhere as well to your hair. Any moisture left over after the shower would make it difficult to hold and style the baby hairs.

🔷 Use a brush or comb or edge styling tool to help distribute the product evenly along your hairline.

One big challenge is the sweat secretion during summer times. The moisture content from sweat can dissolve the applied gel, erode the product film from the hair shaft and eventually dissolve the hair gel.

Minerals and sebum from sweating further damage the deposits on the hair surface. In such circumstances, dry off the sweat with a cloth, towel or napkin and then reapply the product.

The Best Natural Hair Edge Control Gels

Various top brands have edge control taming gel. Some of our top picks are listed below.

Pantene GS EDGE TAMER

Cantu Extra Hold Edge Stay Gel

Carol’s Daughter Black Vanilla Edge Control Smoother

Design Essentials Sleek Max Edge Control

Mizani Edge Taming Gel

Eden BodyWorks Coconut Shea Control Edge Glaze

The Mane Choice Growth Stimulating Edge Control

FAQs

Should we lay our edges before or after makeup? 

It is best to lay your edges after you have done your makeup. This way, you can avoid getting any product on your face.

Is there an edge control gel that helps grow hair?

There are some products that may help promote hair growth.

One of them is The Mane Choice Growth Stimulating Edge Control, which is formulated to smooth your edges and grow them at the same time.

The key is to find a product that works well for you and that you will be able to stick with over time.

Conclusion

Edge control gels are a great way to keep your hair looking neat and tidy. They can be used to tame flyaways, baby hairs, and help control the hairline.

Edge control gels are easy to use and can be applied in a number of ways.

When choosing an edge control gel, be sure to read the ingredients list and avoid those that contain drying alcohol or high levels of synthetic polymers.

I hope this article was helpful in guiding you on how to choose a good edge control gel for your hair type and needs.