Struggling to Lay your Edges? We'll Show you How
Your edges not only frame your face but they also define your entire hairstyle, whether you decide to 'lay' then or not. Laying them down is not only a way to style your hair but it can be considered an art form. Just like anything to do with hair, it may not be as easy to get the first time you try. We think styling your edges can be seen as a science - so looking to the experts, we want to share how to lay your edges like a pro or at least try to!
Before you start laying your edges, it's important to make sure that your hair is clean and moisturized. We know it can be time consuming washing your hair constantly so we recommend a spray bottle that you can fill up with water and use it to clean your edges! This will help to ensure that the styling products are absorbed evenly and that your edges stay in place for longer.
Image| OUAI Conditioner Revitalisant
Start by washing and conditioning your hair with products that are formulated for your hair type. Use a microfiber towel, Byrdie have provided us with a list of the best microfiber towels that are great for drying your hair. Or you can use a cotton T-shirt (no need to go out and buy a new t-shirt, you can use any old one you have at home) to dry your hair, as this will prevent frizzing and breakage.
Image| Pattern Microfiber Towel
Next, moisturize your hair with a leave-in conditioner or hair oil. This will help to keep your edges hydrated and prevent them from becoming brittle or dry. Make sure you apply whatever product you decide to use from the root to the tips, making sure to distribute it evenly.
Image| This Hair of Mine Scalp Serum
Different ways to lay your edges
Once your hair is fresh and ready to go, it's time to start styling your edges. There are several techniques and products that you can use to lay them down, depending on your hair type and preferred style.
Our favourite and most cost effective technique is the toothbrush method, where you use a clean toothbrush or a small brush to smooth down your edges. You will need to apply a small amount of edge control or gel onto the toothbrush, and then brush your edges in the direction that you want them to lay. We love this video of Fabulous Bre laying her edges so beautifully.
Image| Fabulous Bre laying her edges on youtube
Another technique we love is the scarf method, this is when you tie a silk or satin scarf around your edges to keep them in place while they dry. You will have to apply a small amount of edge control or gel onto your edges, and then tie the scarf tightly around your head. Leave it on for at least 30 minutes or overnight (if you want extremely slick edges), and then remove the scarf. You are guaranteed to love what you see!
Image|Girl with scarf around edges
What edge control?
There are so many different edge control gels and pomades that are designed specifically for laying down edges. We suggest you look for products that are lightweight and non-greasy, and that provide a strong hold without flaking or causing build-up. Some popular options include Creme of Nature Perfect Edges, Eco Styler Gel, and Mielle Organics Honey, and Ginger Edge Gel.
Image| Eco Styler Professional Styling Gel
Hopefully you've learnt one or two things about laying your edges. We know it isn't as easy as it looks and not every one has the same edges, however we think these steps will definitely guide you into becoming a pro and laying your edges. Always remember to use products that are made for your hair type, and to be gentle when brushing or manipulating your edges to avoid breakage or damage.
Show us your different laying techniques and tag us on Tik Tok, Instagram or Twitter and let us know if our tips worked for you, we would love to see!
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