Commercial edge control products usually control alcohol and other chemicals. They can damage the fragile baby hair, dry them out, and affect your hairline. The recipes shared in the article are simple and hassle-free. Scroll down to check them out. However, commercial edge control products contain many chemicals and preservatives that may damage the delicate baby hair strands. That is why we shared easy DIY edge control recipes in the next section.
5 Effective DIY Edge Control Recipes
1. Aloe Vera And Shea Butter Gel
Aloe vera gel is an excellent natural moisturizer often used in hair care products. It is rich in vitamins A (beta-carotene), C, and E and contains four fatty acids. Aloe vera has antiseptic properties (1). These properties may keep the hairline healthy. Plant oils like shea butter improve the gel’s consistency and make it suitable for kinky and coily hair. You Will Need
1 tablespoon of aloe vera gel 1 tablespoon of shea butter
Method
2. Agar-Agar Edge Control Gel
Agar-agar, a natural substance derived from seaweeds, is a perfect thickener for a homemade edge control recipe. The aloe vera gel makes the recipe nourishing for the hair. You Will Need
1 teaspoon of agar-agar flakes 1 cup of water 1 tablespoon of aloe vera gel
Method
3. Mango Butter And Castor Oil Balm
Mango butter is a common ingredient in DIY hair care recipes, owing to its rich texture and pleasant fragrance. Castor oil is believed to promote hair growth and prevent hair breakage. You Will Need
2 tablespoons of mango butter 1 tablespoon of castor oil An electric whipper
Method
4. Flaxseed Edge Control Gel
Flaxseed is commonly used in DIY recipes for its perfect gel-like consistency. It provides excellent hold and moisturizes the strands. Castor oil is touted to promote hair growth and prevent hair breakage. This edge control gel is ideal for normal to oily hair. You Will Need
1/4 cup of flaxseeds 2.5 cups of water 1 tablespoon of castor oil A strainer or cheesecloth
Method
5. Moisturizing Edge Control For Dry Hair
This moisturizing edge control gel contains jojoba oil that has deep moisturizing properties (2). Together with the flaxseed gel, it can effectively tame dry and frizzy hair. You Will Need
1/4 cup of flax seeds 2.5 cups of water 1 tablespoon of jojoba oil 3-4 drops of lavender, sandalwood, or rosemary essential oil for fragrance (optional) A fine-mesh sieve A whisk or spoon
Method While using the right edge control product is the first step to achieve a perfectly slicked look, there are a few more things in mind. Take a look.
Tips For Effective Edge Control
Use A Small Brush
Use a small brush or a spoolie brush to slick the strands. Smaller brushes are best for arranging the hair in intricate patterns. You may also use an eyebrow makeup applicator brush.
Avoid Products With High Oil Content And Alcohol
While many edge control products are oil-based, avoid those with high oil content. Too much oil may clog the pores on the hairline and leave an oily residue. Use a water-based edge control or one with lower oil content. Also, avoid products with alcohol as they may dry out your hair.
Wear A Scarf While The Edges Set
Wear a scarf or headband after applying the edge control product. Wait for 10-20 minutes to allow the edges to set, and then remove the covering. This ensures the edges stay put all day long.
Remove The Product Before Sleeping
Leaving the product in your hair overnight may cause buildup and clog the follicles and skin pores, causing breakouts and hair loss.
Dampen Your Hair Before Applying Edge Control
Spritz water on your edges before applying edge control. Damp hair is easy to set and gives a slicker look. However, ensure that the hair is not wet, or the product will slip off the strands. Can you use honey as edge control? Honey can act as a good edge control agent if combined with other suitable ingredients like vitamin E oil or mango butter. Can beeswax be used as edge control? Yes, beeswax can be used for edge control. However, mix it with a carrier oil, like coconut oil, before applying it for better results.
