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Keep those edges in place.

collage of edge-control products Mizani Artful Edges, Fenty Hair Control Gel, and Bask & Lather Edge Control on a sandy background

Byrdie

That’s where edge-control gels, pomades, and balms come in.

According to award-winning hairstylistMichelle O’Connor, less is more with edge-control products.

“Start conservatively and add more product as needed,” she says.

Mizani Artful Edges Strong Hold Balm

PHOTO: Sephora

“This will allow more time to mold your edges into your desired shape.”

It not only lays your baby hairs flat but also protects them from damage by lubricating each strand.

Though this product claims to provide a strong hold, we’d say it’s closer to medium.

Cantu Extra Hold Edge Stay Gel

PHOTO: Amazon

We appreciate that it delivers shine and nourishment with keratin, hydrolyzed wheat protein, and hair-lovingargan oil.

The clear, incredibly soft gel almost feels whipped.

And while the 16-ounce tub isn’t travel-friendly, it’s a killer value.

Creme of Nature Perfect Edges Extra Hold

PHOTO: Walmart

This edge-control product from The Mane Choice is your best bet.

The waxy, balm-like formula promises to smooth down yourfinest, tiniest hairswhile protecting them from breakage.

Even though it’s a bit sticky, we really like this pomade from Ouidad.

Carol’s Daughter Black Vanilla Edge Control Smoother

PHOTO: Amazon

The totally transparent formula also leaves a shiny finish.

Best for Braids

The Doux Push It!

Just a heads up, the water-based formula may unstick if you get sweaty.

Olive Oil Styling Gel

PHOTO: Sally Beauty

It’s also supposed to help you grow thicker edges.

But a little bit goes a long way, so use a small amount to avoid a white sheen.

We like that it works with natural hair as well aswigs and extensions.

The Mane Choice Growth Stimulating Edge Control

PHOTO: Sally Beauty

This one, aptly named Slick, goes above and beyond slicking down baby hairs and controllingtapered cuts.

The thick gel can be hard to squeeze from the tube, but otherwise, we have no complaints.

This wildly popular product has nearly 24,000 five-star ratings on Amazon, and we think the hype is well-deserved.

Fenty Hair The Controlling Type Hair-Thickening Edge Control Gel

PHOTO: Sephora

The gel provides a medium hold and leaves a glossy (but not greasy) finish in its wake.

It’s slightly greasy but provides a glossy finish and a long-lasting hold.

We love that it’s small enough to toss in your purse or toiletry bag.

Pattern Edge Control

PHOTO: Sephora

What to Look for in Edge Control Products

Edge-control products are similar to hair geland somearegels.

But they’re specifically formulated to smooth down the small hairs around your hairline and keep them in place.

The formulas are also usually thicker than a typical styling gel and more like a pomade or creamy balm.

Ouidad Moisture Lock Edge Control + Pomade

PHOTO: Ulta

In short, no.

“Or, opt for afiction-free pillowcase.”

Rele AS and Mohile RB.

The Doux Push It! Honey Braid & Edge Gel

PHOTO: Walmart

54,2 175-92

Lin TK, Zhong L, Santiago JL.

(2017).Anti-Inflammatory and Skin Barrier Repair Effects of Topical system of Some Plant Oils.Int J Mol Sci.

;19(1):70. doi:10.2147/CCID.S144180

Sethi A, et al.

Bask & Lather Strong Hold Edge Control

PHOTO: Amazon

(2016).Moisturizers: The slippery road.Indian J Dermatol.

;61(3):279. doi:10.4103/0019-5154.182427

Al-Waili NS.

6,7 306-8

Radha MH, et al.

Ebin 24 Hour Edge Tamer

PHOTO: Amazon

Ashique S, et al.

(2017).Inhibition of 5-Reductase, IL-6 Secretion, and Oxidation Process of Equisetum debile Roxb.

101(1 Suppl):143S-147S.

TPH By Taraji Slick Edge Control Treatment

PHOTO: Walmart

Ampro Shine ‘n Jam Conditioning Gel Extra Hold

PHOTO: Amazon

Design Essentials Sleek Max Edge Control

PHOTO: Amazon

Briogeo Style + Treat Sleek Stick

PHOTO: Amazon