Editor’s tip: Known for its rich, nourishing benefits in skin care, shea butter is just as powerful when it comes to hair care. In edge control formulas, it deeply moisturizes and softens the hair while helping to smooth and protect against breakage. Its emollient properties also add a healthy, non-greasy shine, keeping edges sleek and conditioned.
Key ingredients: shea butter, castor oil | Sulfate-free: yes | Who it’s for: all curl types
Best for Moisturizing: Ouidad Moisture Lock Edge Control + Pomade
Why we love it: Ouidad’s Moisture Lock Edge Control and Pomade is the kind of multitasker that makes curl care feel like less of a chore. This clear formula combines strong hold with moisture-rich ingredients like flaxseed oil, rosemary leaf oil, marshmallow root extract, biotin, and aloe to smooth edges and boost shine without drying strands. It plays well with other styling products and can be emulsified in your palms to finger-coil curls back into shape or smooth over frizz-prone areas. Whether you’re refining baby hairs or refreshing a second-day wash and go, this pomade delivers polished definition every time.
Editor’s tip: Flaxseed oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids that help strengthen hair and boost elasticity, while rosemary leaf oil is known to stimulate the scalp and support healthy hair growth. Marshmallow root extract adds slip and softness, making it easier to smooth edges and reduce breakage during styling.
Key ingredients: flaxseed oil, rosemary leaf oil, marshmallow root extract | Sulfate-free: yes | Who it’s for: all curl types
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an edge control product?
Edge control is used to smooth and sculpt baby hairs along the hairline. “These products provide a firm to stronghold, control frizz, and promote shine,” said James. Cherry called it a “pomade-like product” used for sleek or creative looks, while Bailey emphasized its ability to “provide moisture, hold, and shine…without buildup or flakes.”
Are there drawbacks to using edge control?
Yes, mainly from overuse or improper technique. “Edge control products could block oxygen to the hair follicle,” said James, leading to shedding or hair loss. Cherry noted that frequent tension and poor cleansing “can hinder hair growth… and lead to thinning” around the perimeter. Bailey added that too much product often causes “buildup and a flaky, white residue.”
Are there any ingredients in edge control that you should avoid?
The pros agree: Steer clear of harsh or drying ingredients. Bailey flagged high alcohol content as a red flag. Cherry shared the sentiment to avoid alcohol and cautioned against products with “propylene glycol, mineral oils, phthalates, and parabens.” James recommended avoiding non-water-soluble formulas, which “cause buildup and may lead to breakage.”
What’s the best way to apply and style edge products?
All three experts agree: Start with a small amount and use an edge brush, toothbrush, or rattail comb to shape. “Apply a generous amount of edge control to the back of your hand; it acts as a palette,” says licensed cosmetologist James. “The body heat warms the product, making it more workable when applied to the hair” for smooth, sculpted edges and a flawless finish.
How can you keep your edges laid all day?
Setting your baby hairs is key. “Use a silk or satin scarf or an edge-laying band,” said James. Cherry prefers styling at night and tying edges down to set them while sleeping. Bailey emphasized drying and light application: “Once the hairs are in place, they should stay in place.”
Meet the experts
How we test and review products
We always enlist a range of testers for any review, but hair-care products and tools are another story. While some can be used across different hair textures, lengths, curl patterns, thicknesses, colors (natural and unnatural), and concerns, many are created with specific consumers and their needs in mind. When reviewing tools, we also take into account testers’ experience levels. For instance, an innovative new blow-dryer may feature industry-leading technology, but if the only people who find it intuitive to use are professional hairstylists, we have to consider this when determining whether it is worthy of a recommendation.