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We Tested 10 Edge Control Products for Black Hairstyles

Find out which edge-smoothing formulas get the thumbs-up for taming those kinky hairline wispies
The Score: 10

THIS pliable gel pomade is your one-product-on-a-deserted-island edge controller. The lightweight, moisturizing formula works on natural, relaxed, fine and thick hair. It's oil-infused, water-based, humidity-resistant and smells slightly floral with sweet, fragrant notes -- a curly girl's dream. Did I mention it's infused with Indian amla oil, which is known for its ability to stimulate blood circulation and hair growth? But there is such a thing as too much of a good thing. Daily use with few washes in between can cause a messy build-up. Suggestion: Dab a little water along your hairline and use a soft brush to smooth and activate day-old product residue.

The Score: 10.

Sweating? Wearing a hat? Running in the wind? Running through a tropical forest with only a compass and this edge-controlling product? No problem. A few slicks of this will keep any curl from popping up. It keeps frizzies shellac smooth, conditions and soothes even the most stubborn curly hair types, and you can expect all-day hold if you have natural/unpressed hair. It doesn't clump or create build-up and washes out easily in between styling. Even better: It comes in a giant 32 oz. tub for less than your morning coffee. If only it worked on all hair types without making straight hair curly again. It might not be ideal for freshly pressed hair, but if you're ready for a wash, stick with this for a smooth finish when styling.

In the world of hair styling, edge control is something most of my fair, flaxen-haired friends have never heard of, but it's an essential step for kinky-curly, bound-to-be-frizzy, African-American hair maintenance. Those stray wispies along the hairline aren't meant to roam free, as in some sepia-toned Alicia Keys video. If there's anything our favorite naturalistas have taught us, it's that going natural isn't just about going with the 'fro, and taming those frazzled edges at your hairline takes a lot more artillery than a little shine serum and hairspray. Controlling your edges can be a lifelong project ... a mission, if you will. But there's a whole category of products designed to make this mission: possible.

We've selected some of the best edge control products for everything from natural black hairstyles to relaxed hair and pressed looks. Because choosing edge control products is personal -- the formula needs to target your specific hair type without altering the state of your hair -- we found a full range of edge control products for different hair types and textures. Whether you've got chemically relaxed hair or a full-blown 'fro, try one of these edge smoothing products for black hairstyles.
BY TIFFANIE PETETT | MAR 17, 2014 | SHARES
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