Afro Hair

Edges hair has never looked so good. Here is how to nail it

Edges laid down to the gawds.
Edges Hair Inspiration
@patrickta

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What was once seen as an unavoidable and unmanageable feature has quickly become a deliberate and fashionable element to hairstyling. Granted, as much as we have grown a love for baby hairs, they are notoriously tricky to control. “They’re a lot thinner and shorter than the rest of your hair and, as a result, they can be hard to control and style”, says Joanne Dodds from Hairtrade.com.

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But it's not impossible. In fact, if you know how to work them just right, they can become an important part of your hairstyle, especially when creating an updo. While taming edges can sometimes be tricky, when your gel and design just work, it's a pretty damn good feeling.

Here are our best tips to style your edges hairs in seven steps:

1.Prep the hair

Before styling your edges, make sure your hair is clean and well-moisturised. Wash and condition your hair and don't forget to apply a leave-in conditioner or hair oil to ensure your edges are hydrated and manageable.

Pattern Beauty Leave-in Conditioner

Olaplex No.7 Bonding Oil

2.Comb and brush

Using a soft-bristled toothbrush or a small edge brush, gently comb through your edges to detangle and smooth them. For a sleeker finish, lightly dampen the edges with water or edge control gel to help them lay flat.

Larry King Flyaway With Me Kit

3.Apply edge control products

Invest in a good edge control product suitable for your hair type. Edge control gels or pomades are designed to tame flyaways, provide hold, and create that sleek finish. When applying the product, use a small amount at a time to avoid buildup and greasiness.

Ecostyle Olive Oil Styling Gel

Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Edge Gel

4.Style baby hairs and play around with artistic styles

Take a small amount of edge control product and pop on your brush or toothbrush. Start working it through your edges in small, gentle strokes. Brush in the direction you want your hair to lay, creating a smooth, defined and neat finish. Be creative and experiment with various shapes and styles.

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5.Wrap and protect

To preserve your styled edges, consider wrapping your hair with a silk scarf or using a satin bonnet before bedtime. This helps reduce friction and prevents frizz, ensuring your edges remain intact and well-maintained.

Schwarzkopf got2b Glued 4 Brows & Edges 2 in 1 Hair Gel

6.Refresh and re-style

Throughout the day, you may notice some frizz or your edges becoming less defined. Carry a small travel-sized edge control product with you to touch up your hair whenever needed. Simply apply a tiny amount and brush through to restore the sleek appearance. However don't over do it, and stay careful with buildup.

7. Avoid Over-Manipulation:

While it's essential to groom your edges regularly, try to avoid excessive pulling, tugging, or harsh brushing, as this can lead to hair breakage and damage over time. Be gentle with your hair to maintain its health and integrity.

Now that you've got your technique down, it's time for the style inspiration you were after…

Obsessed yet? Here is some more edges hair inspo:

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From 'S' shapes to waves and even spirals like FKA Twigs, why sweep those little fluffy strands to the side when you can make them into a feature.

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Why not add some gemstones or glittery hair embellishments to make the baby hairs the main attraction?

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Two large swoops to the side is all you need if you have colour, and a swoop and curled side parting.

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This Barbie-fied side swoop frames the face perfectly and compliments a deep side parting oh-so -well.

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The beauty on fuzzy baby hairs is that they're effortless and require very little maintenance. These edges are the real I-woke-up-like-this baby hairs.

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Then there is the exaggerated mirrored curly-wurls. Fit for a polished red carpet ready look.

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This mix match of baby hairs are perfect for a messy top bun as they're not structured but still look neat.

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Lay flat a long curl on the edges for structured baby hairs finish.

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Even if you're rocking braids, laid down edges can go a long way.

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Add one accent centre swoop for a polished and statement hair look that frames the face and brings attention to the makeup.

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This classic edges hair finish just involves swopping them inwards towards the bun in the direction of the parting. It's muted yet polished.

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Feathered baby hairs are the perfect way to style baby hairs without feeling like you're doing too much. It gives a youthful look to a sleek bun.

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Want to do a bit more? If length allows it, try tapering off your edges and add a cute little ringlet in the middle instead of having it all tucked up and away. Modern and feminine.

For more from Glamour UK Beauty Writer Shei Mamona, follow her on Instagram @sheimamona