When it comes to elevating your hairstyle, the magic often lies in the details and nothing speaks volumes like well-laid edges. Also known as baby hairs, edges can add an extra layer of polish, flair, and personality to your look. Whether you’re going for a slick ponytail, a protective style, or a natural ‘fro, styled edges can tie everything together beautifully.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you master the art of styling your edges like a pro.
- Start with clean edges
Before you begin, make sure your edges are free from product build-up. Gently cleanse the hairline using a damp cloth or a bit of micellar water on a cotton pad. This helps ensure the products you use will lay the hair down effectively without flaking or clumping.
- Choose the right tools
You don’t need much, but the right tools make all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:
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A soft-bristle toothbrush or edge brush
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Edge control gel or pomade (preferably alcohol-free)
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A silk or satin scarf (to set the style)
You can also use a small comb with a rat tail if you want extra precision for swoops and curls.
- Apply edge control
Take a small amount of edge control gel and apply it directly to your baby hairs. Less is more, you can always add more if needed. Using your brush or comb, begin shaping your edges into your desired style. Popular styles include:
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Swoops: Gently curved waves that follow the natural line of your hairline.
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Curls: Little spirals or coils, perfect for a softer, playful look.
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Slick-downs: Neat, straight styling for a clean, minimalist finish.
If you’re new to styling edges, practise makes perfect. Don’t be afraid to experiment to see what best complements your face shape and hairstyle.
- Set your edges
Once you’re happy with the styling, tie a silk or satin scarf around your hairline and leave it on for at least 10–15 minutes. This helps lock the edges in place and gives a sleeker finish. Avoid cotton scarves as they can dry out your hair and disrupt the style.
- Keep them fresh
To maintain your edges throughout the day, avoid touching them too often and steer clear of excessive moisture. If needed, dab a bit more gel with your brush and restyle lightly. For bedtime, wrap your hair to preserve the look and prevent frizz.
Extra tips for fabulous edges
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Use a lightweight oil beforehand if your hairline tends to get dry.
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Avoid heavy gels with alcohol; they can lead to breakage over time.
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Don’t tug too much when styling; baby hairs are delicate and need gentle handling.