The 20 Best Edge Control Products For Natural Hair – 2023
The one-stop solution to tame your flyaways, frizz, and fine hair effortlessly.
Oyendrila Kanjilal Certified Skin Care Coach
Expertise: Skin Care & Hair Care
Experience: 2 years
Oyendrila holds a master's degree in English Literature from the University Of Calcutta, West Bengal, and is a certified skin care coach. As a beauty and lifestyle writer with two years of experience,... more
Shiboli ChakrabortiCertified Skin Care Coach
Expertise: Skin Care & Hair Care
Experience: 4 years
Shiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce edito... more
Image: StyleCraze Design Team
Fine hair edges have been a problem for all times and all people. But with the best edge control for natural hair, this can now change. You can now stop worrying about flyaways and frizz and can make a neat bun or ponytail that looks graceful and elegant. These products moisturize your hair, smoothen the surface, and promote hair growth, so that all your tresses grow out equally, giving your hair a uniform thickness. In addition, they also add shine and make your hair look healthy. In this article, you will find the 20 best edge control formulae for natural hair. Scroll down and pick the one that you like the most!
In This Article
20 Best Edge Control Products For Natural Hair Available Right Now
1. Best Non-Sticky Formula: Hicks Transformations Hicks Edges Styling Gel
Image: Hicks This non-greasy hair gel from Hicks holds your edges firmly in place while promoting hair growth. The formula cleanses and moisturizes the hair, adding a healthy shine to it without flaking. It is packed with hydrogenated castor oil that has proven efficacy in promoting hair growth. Its non-sticky formula helps control tapered cuts and edges. It can also be used as a curling pomade with heat-styling tools. This video detailing a tester’s experience of using this product will give you a better insight into it.
Key Ingredients: Hydrogenated castor oil
Pros
- Non-greasy formula
- Superior hold
- Imparts shine
- Smoothens the hair
- Non-flaky
- Gluten-free
Cons
- Leaves a white residue
Pro Tip2. Best Moisturizing: Creme Of Nature Argan Oil Perfect Edges Control
Image: Creme Of Nature Taming the edges of natural or relaxed hair is easy with Creme of Nature Argan Oil Perfect Edges Control. It is infused with argan oil that controls and holds down edges, makes hair stronger, moisturizes your tresses, and gives an exotic shine to them. It is perfect for creating sleek, smooth styles, ponytails, sculpting, and styling the hair. This alcohol-free gel provides superior hold without hardening the hair. Many reviewers love the product as it smells good and delivers what it promises. But if you have sensitive skin or acne-prone skin, perform a patch test before buying this product.
Key Ingredients: Argan oil
Pros
- Makes hair healthy
- Moisturizes the hair
- Adds shine
- Offers superior hold
- Non-greasy formula
- Non-flaking
- Non-sticky texture
- Alcohol-free
- Suitable for relaxed and natural hair
Cons
- May dry out your hair
- Leaves an oily residue
Pro Tip3. Best Strong Hold: Design Essentials Sleek MAX Edge Control Maximum Hold
Image: Design Essentials Design Essentials Sleek MAX Edge Control is a versatile maximum hold gel that lasts all day. This edge control gel is infused with special ingredients that help retain moisture and maintain hold. Its unique formula does not flake, cause build-up, or turn white when applied to the hair. Ingredients like glycerin condition your hair and prevent breakage, while hydrogenated castor oil promotes hair growth.The peptide solution makes the hair stronger and prevents breakage. This edge control gel is perfect for smoothening and enhancing hair edges or tapered cuts, creating texture on short hair styles for ponytails, or taming unruly hair when braiding and creating up-dos. It is ideal for hair with medium to coarse textures, such as 4C hair.
Key Ingredients: Glycerin, Peptide solution,and Hydrogenated castor oil
Pros
- Long-lasting results
- Provides maximum hold
- Protects your hair
- Adds natural shine
- Non-flaky
- Silicone-free
- Sulfate-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Greasy texture
StyleCraze TriviaBest Non-Sticky Formula | Best Moisturizing | Best Strong Hold | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Name | Hicks Transformations Hicks Edges Styling Gel | Creme Of Nature Argan Oil Perfect Edges Control | Design Essentials Sleek MAX Edge Control Maximum Hold |
| Hair Type | All | - | All, Dry, Curly, Straight |
| Dimensions | 3 x 2 x 2 inches | 1.5 x 3 x 4.5 inches | 2.75 x 2.75 x 1.25 inches |
| Weight | 4 Ounces | 2.25 Ounces | 2.24 Ounces |
| Number of Items | - | 3 | - |
| Rating* | 4.3 | 4.4 | 4.2 |
| Reviews | 4,108 | 1,766 | 6,437 |
| Price | $12.76 | $14.94 | $16.9 |
| Buy Now | Buy Now | Buy Now |
4. Best For Frizz: Style Factor Edge Booster Strong Hold Water-Based Pomade – Blueberry
Image: Style Factor Style Factor Edge Booster is a water-based pomade with a non-greasy texture. This edge control gel has a quick-absorbing formula infused with nourishing natural argan oil. It hydrates your hair while providing a strong hold. The unique blueberry scent can invigorate your senses and freshen up your hair between washes.This gel does not leave any oily residue in your hair and is suitable for both men and women.
Key Ingredients: Natural argan oil
Pros
- Dermatologist-tested
- Water-soluble
- Non-greasy formula
- Nourishes the hair
- Provides strong hold
- Adds natural finish
- Controls frizz
- Defines curls
- Moisturizes the hair
- Refreshing scent
Cons
- Leaves residue
5. Best For Shine: Curls Blueberry Bliss Curl Control Paste
Image: Curls Curls Blueberry Bliss Curl Control Paste is a super sculpting pomade infused with nourishing ingredients like certified organic blueberry extract, argan oil, and mango butter that repair and restore your curls. It enhances, defines, and holds your curls while encouraging new hair growth. This organic edge control product also adds sheen, smoothens unruly edges, and helps you create your favorite natural style. Watch this video to explore a reviewer’s experience with this product for a thorough understanding of it.
Key Ingredients: Organic argan oil, Mango butter, Blueberry extract, Aloe leaf juice, and Chamomile extract
Pros
- Encourages hair growth
- Adds shine
- Sulfate-free
- Silicone-free
- Artificial oil-free
- Fragrance-free
- Paraben-free
Cons
- Overpowering fragrance
6. Best Long-Lasting Hold: Diamond Egdes Black Panther Strong Styling Gel
Image: Blackpantherstrong Diamond Egdes Black Panther Strong Styling Gel is an excellent braid and edge tamer for natural hairstyles. It is ideal for Hispanic and Afro hair. This edge control for curly hair helps in taming frizz as well. It provides a 24-hour hold and is suitable for both men and women. This styling gel is non-greasy and has a flake-free formula.
Key Ingredients: Castor oil, Aloe vera extract, Glycerin, Coconut oil, Jojoba oil, and Sunflower oil
Pros
- Offers 24-hour hold
- Tames frizzy hair
- Flake-free
- Non-greasy formula
- Silicone-free
Cons
None
7. Best Flake-Free: EBIN New York 24 Hour Edge Tamer – Extreme Firm Hold
Image: Ebin EBIN New York 24 Hour Edge Tamer is the best tamer for Brazilian, virgin, or natural hair. It offers a textured natural look and imparts a flawless finish to your hair. This expert-recommended edge tamer provides a 24-hour firm hold with no flaking or white residue on stubborn unruly edges. The hydrogenated castor oil in the formula promotes hair growth, while the argan oil moisturizes the hair. PEG-7 glycerol cocoate adds shine to the tresses. Click this video detailing a reviewer’s experience of using this product, before buying it.
Key Ingredients: Castor oil, PEG-7 glycerol cocoate, and Argan oil
Pros
- Offers extra firm hold
- Refreshing fragrance
- Adds shine
- Flake-free
Cons
- Greasy formula
8. Best Non-Greasy Texture: AvlonKeracare Edge Tamer
Image: Avlon AvlonKeracare Edge Tamer is a super-holding gel that smoothens relaxed and natural hair. It creates a silky-smooth texture and helps prevent your hair endings s from reverting. This colorless edge tamer gives a lasting hold to your tresses, while hold. It quickly tames your edges and temporarily straightening s unruly hairlines.
Key Ingredients: Glycerin, Camellia leaf, and Hydrogenated Castor Oil
Pros
- Offers smooth texture
- Long-lasting hold
- Non-greasy texture
- Moisturizes the hair
- Smoothens the hair
Cons
- Flaky formula
9. Best Anti-Breakage: MIZANI Styling Edge Taming Gel
Image: Mizani This non-sticky edge taming gel from MIZANI gives you definite edge control every time. It is designed with ceramide technology that helps restore the protective layer of the hair and prevent breakage. This edge taming product is infused with a nourishing blend of argan oil, sunflower oil, and jojoba oil that provides essential moisture to the hair. Antioxidant-rich vitamin E helps strengthen the hair from roots to tips. Many reviewers love the texture of the product and how it holds up the style without making the hair greasy.
Key Ingredients: Vitamin E, Ceramides, Argan oil, Sunflower oil, and Jojoba oil
Pros
- Offers medium hold
- Smoothens flyaways
- Flake-free
- Prevents breakage
- Controls frizz
- Provides long-lasting moisture
- Alcohol-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Petrolatum-free
Cons
- Greasy texture
10. Best Vegan: Tancho High Grade Tique Vegetable Pomade
Image: Tancho Tancho High Grade Tique Vegetable Pomade is a creamy, silicone-free hair-styling wax. The oil-based formula ensures your hairstyle lasts all day without feeling greasy or weighed down while adding shine to the hair. This edge control product is made from natural ingredients like castor oil, beeswax, and candelilla wax that can effectively hold even the unruliest hair.It is suitable for all hair types.
Key Ingredients: Castor oil, Beeswax, and Candelilla wax
Pros
- Provides strong hold
- Adds shine
- Vegan
- Alcohol-free
- Silicone-free
- Paraben-free
- Ammonia-free
- Sulfate-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Overpowering fragrance
11. Best Clean Scent: Dr. Miracle’s Style Edge Holding Gel
Image: Dr. Miracle's The Dr. Miracle’s Style Edge holding gel is infused with jojoba oil and can be your hair’s new friend. The nourishing composition adds more shine and conditions the hair well. It works as an excellent holding gel for relaxed, braided, natural, or weaved hair. The super hold formula, combined with the richness of jojoba oil, locks in moisture, and keeps the hairstyle in place for a long time.
Key Ingredients: Jojoba oil, Castor oil, Honey, and Aloe vera
Pros
- Clean scent
- Adds shine and smoothens hair
- Super hold formula
- Suitable for all hairstyles
Cons
- Might not last for long
12. Palmer’s Olive Oil Super Control Hair Gel For Edges
Image: Palmer's Palmer’s Olive Oil Super Control Hair Gel for edges provides strong hold and tames unruly edges. It refreshes and stimulates the scalp without hardening and flaking. This edge control product is enriched with extra virgin olive oil,which is rich in antioxidants, to protect your hair from free radical damage. The Botanical Scalp Complex – a nourishing blend of sage, nettle, and hyssop – soothes redness and irritation on the scalp. It is also infused with Jamaican black castor oil that helps relieve itchy and dry scalp and vitamin E that stimulates healthy hair growth. This edge control hair gel is great for up dos, creating smooth styles, and ponytails.
Key Ingredients: Extra virgin olive oil, Vitamin E, Jamaican black castor oil, and Botanical scalp complex
Pros
- Flake-free
- Adds shine
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Gluten-free
- Dye-free
Cons
13. Best Natural Composition: Mielle Organics Flexible Hold Edge Gel
Image: Mielle Organics The Mielle Organics Edge Gel gives you a soft yet manageable hold for styling and smoothing edges, ponytails, and braids. It features nourishing ingredients like aloe, honey, and ginger root that give your hair all the nutrients it needs to remain healthy and manageable. It is suitable for all hair products and for both low and high porosity levels.
Key Ingredients: Aloe vera, Honey, and Ginger root
Pros
- Made with natural ingredients
- Suitable for all hair types
- Clean scent
- Flake-free
- No sticky build-up
Cons
- Can be slightly hard in texture
14. Best Alcohol-Free Gel: Eco Style Gel Olive Oil Styling Gel
Image: Eco Style Add the nourishment of olive oil to your hair with the Eco Style Olive Oil Infused Styling Gel. It smooths the cuticle, locks in moisture, and enhances shine. It adds softness to your tresses and helps them remain supple and moisturized. Don’t choose between hydration and holding- you can have both with this formula! This hair gel provides superior staying power while keeping your hair moisturized with natural ingredients. Feel confident knowing your hairstyle won’t gently deflate throughout the day!
Key Ingredients: Olive oil
Pros
- Suitable for all hair types
- Water-based formula
- Alcohol-free
- Superior hold
- Tames split ends
Cons
- Overwhelming scent
15. She Is Bomb Collection Edge Control
Image: She Is Bomb She Is Bomb Collection Edge Control is an alcohol-free edge control cream for relaxed and curly hair. It locks the little frizz-prone strands in place and smoothens your hair. The non-greasy formula of this hair cream moisturizes and repairs damaged hair. It is a fast-drying cream with non-flaking and long-lasting properties.
Key Ingredients: Ceteareth-25, Glycerol Cocoate, and Hydrogenated castor oil
Pros
- Non-greasy
- Repairs damaged hair
- Suitable for relaxed or curly hair
- Non-flaking
- Long-lasting
- Moisturizing formula
Cons
- Leaves a white residue
16. Best Sulfate-Free: Best Sulfate-Free: tgin Smooth & Hold Edge Control
Image: Thank God It's Natural The TGIN Smooth & Hold Edge Control, infused with the nourishment of nettle leaf and castor oil, gives you a smooth and finished look. It works wonders for creating sleek styles, polished ponytails, and tapered cuts. The natural composition helps keep the scalp healthy and promotes voluminous hair. The non-sticky formula moisturizes your hair and enhances its shine. Cherish the goodness that is all-natural, safe, and completely devoid of artificial colors or harmful chemicals.
Key Ingredients: Honey, Castor oil, and Nettle leaf
Pros
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Artificial color-free
- Non-sticky
- Non-greasy
- Non-flaking
- Long-lasting hold
Cons
- Might irritate the scalp in some
17. OGX Natural Finish + Aspen Texture Molding Paste
OGX Natural Finish + Aspen Texture Molding Paste is a creamy styling paste that keeps your edges in place. This super moldable paste is blended with sandalwood and aspen bark extract that add definition,texture, and a natural finish to your hair. This lightweight molding paste is perfect for all hair types and textures.
Key Ingredients: Aspen bark extract and Sandalwood
Pros
- Adds definition
- Improves hair texture
- Flake-free
- Lightweight
- Adds natural shine
- Offers structured hold
Cons
None
18. African Pride Black Castor Miracle Extra Hold Braid, Loc And Twist Gel
Image: African Pride African Pride Black Castor Miracle Extra Hold Braid, Loc and Twist Gel is a mineral-free, sulfate-free, and paraben-free hair gel. It is formulated with black castor oil which has proven efficacy in helping promote hair growth and coconut oil that deeply conditions and hydrates the hair. This gel also smoothens frizz and flyaways while adding natural shine for long-lasting styles.
Key Ingredients: Black castor oil and Coconut oil
Pros
- Growth protection formula
- Provides extra hold
- Tames frizz
- Smoothens edges
- Creates part lines
- Mineral oil-free
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Petrolatum-free
Cons
- Greasy formula
19. EDEN Body Works Coconut Shea Edge Control Gel
Image: Eden If you want to get a firm hold on your edges, Eden Body Works Coconut Shea Control Edge Glaze is your best option. It is enriched with nourishing ingredients like coconut oil, aloe vera, and shea butter that hydrate and seal the moisture, keeping your strands from drying out. Shea butter and coconut oil increase your hair’s shine. Also, it is the best edge control product that helps rejuvenate dry, brittle hair and reduces split ends.
Key Ingredients: Coconut oil, Shea butter, and Aloe vera
Pros
- Moisturizes the hair
- Flake-free
- Offers firm hold
- Hydrating formula
- Reduces split ends
- No build-up
- Sulfate-free
Cons
None
20. Carol’s Daughter Black Vanilla Moisture & Shine Edge Control Smoother
Image: Carol’s Daughter The Carol’s Daughter Black Vanilla Moisture & Shine Edge Control Smoother is the best edge control product for dry, dull, and brittle hair. It is enriched with aloe vera which has proven efficacy in helping keep hair moisturized, soft, and manageable. And, honey helps seal split ends and hold your hair in place. Its tempting vanilla fragrance will remind you of warm cupcakes fresh out of the oven.
Key Ingredients: Aloe vera, Honey, and Nettle
Pros
- Moisturizes the hair
- Silicone-free
- Paraben-free
- Petrolatum-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Artificial color-free
Cons
- Greasy formula
Now that you are aware of the 20 best edge control products for your natural hair, let us understand what causes your edges to thin out.
What Causes Your Edges To Thin Out?
- Tight Hairstyles
Tight hairstyles can cause tension on the hairline, and too much pulling damages the hair follicles. Tight braids, ponytails, and slicked-back styles can cause traction alopecia. Also, the weight of certain protective hairstyles can cause further tension, which leads to thinning. If you are wearing these hairstyles every day, it could be a reason why your edges are thinning out.
- Hair Extensions
Hair extensions can weigh down your hair and cause thin hair and breakage. The tight braiding, glue, and wig caps can cause thinning along the hairline and edges. Sometimes, the glue may lock onto your hairline and cause hair breakage.
- Friction
Using headbands, hats, caps, or anything that holds around the hairline too tight can remove moisture and pull on the hair strands. Also, friction from rough towel drying and excessive heat styling can cause hair thinning.
- Heat Or Chemical Damage
Heat and chemicals can damage your hair. Some products have ingredients that are damaging to your hair and scalp’s health such as drying alcohols, mineral oil, and sulfates.
- Health Condition
Postpartum blues, stress, sudden weight loss, or certain types of medication can have a direct impact on your hair health. Hormonal changes are a major contributing factor to postpartum hair loss. So, discuss the treatment methods for this condition with your doctor.
These are some of the reasons that cause your edges to thin out. If you want to buy edge control products, you should consider some important factors. Let’s find out about them in the following section.
How To Choose The Best Edge Control Product For Natural Hair
The best edge control products are ones that can keep your hair smooth, tame frizz and flyaways, are gentle on fine hair, easily maneuverable, and don’t cause flaking.
- Always check the ingredient list on product labels and make sure that ingredients used in the product don’t make your hair dry.
- Look for moisturizing ingredients like castor oil, aloe vera, and glycerin. Castor oil promotes hair growth, aloe vera nourishes fragile strands, glycerin can attract moisture from the air and infuse it into the hair, and honey is another natural ingredient that can offer hold.
- Your edge control products should not contain alcohol. They can make your hair dry and stiff. This, in turn, leads to hair breakage.
- If you are going to buy a traditional edge control gel, look for one that isn’t too runny. Also, if you are new to edge control, start with medium-hold products.
- When choosing an edge control product,figure out the level of hold you need for your edges.
- Edge control hair styling products are available in gels, wax, oil-based, and liquid formulas. Water-based formulas are more suitable for straight, and wavy hair or loose curls, whereas oil-based ones help to nourish dry, coily hair.
Infographic: Edge Control: Ingredients To Look Out For And Styling Tips
Edge control products help smooth the hair along your hairline and make it slick. If you have natural hair and are aiming for that sleek look, you may want to get your hands on the right products to beat the frustration of flyaways and baby hair. Invest in moisturizing products and follow a few quick tips to get glamorous in minutes. Check out the infographic below!. Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
Save the high-quality PDF version on your device now.
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The Bottom Line
With the right edge control products, you can style your hair the way you want, without the unruly edges and frizz peeking out. The products listed above are affordable and enriched with nourishing ingredients that promote hair growth and add shine to the tresses. The Hicks Transformations Hicks Edges Styling Gel is non-sticky and holds your hair in place without flakiness, while the Creme Of Nature Argan Oil Perfect Edges Control makes your hair stronger and gives you a sleek look. The Style Factor Edge Booster Strong Hold Water-Based Pomade – Blueberry is easy to wash off and does not leave behind any residue. So, pick up one of these best edge control products for natural hair for your next styling routine!
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The wordsmith behind this article is our resident hair and skin care expert, Oyendrila Kanjilal. She put in the hard work and searched all over the internet to bring you the best edge control products for natural hair. She understands that flyaways, strays, and frizz can ruin your sleek hairstyles, and she wants to help you find the best solution. These products were selected by Oyendrila based on their ingredients, label, consistency, base (oil, water, or alcohol), and more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is edge control good for natural hair?
Yes. Edge control is good for natural hair. It tames frizz and flyaways, offers maximum hold, and imparts a natural shine to your hair.
Can you use edge control every day?
No. If you use it every day, it can break off your edges.
Should you wash your edges every day?
Too much washing can make your edges break. Hence, only wash your edges when you feel they are extremely oily. Washing your edges everyday will dry out your hair and cause breakage.
How can I make my edges stay all day?
Apply any of your favorite edge control products on your edges for maximum hold.
Can Vaseline be used as edge control?
Vaseline offers your hair a higher shine and might protect it from dryness and breakage. But, it offers less hold and won’t encourage your hair to grow.
How can I grow my edges fast?
Stop wearing tight hairstyles and try to moisturize your hair regularly. Scalp massage and gentle brushing with a natural boar bristle brush can stimulate blood flow and hair growth.
How often should you oil your edges?
Apply your favorite oil to your edges three times a week to see better results. Massaging your thin edges may encourage hair growth.
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