Do’s & Don’ts of Edge Control for Locs

I just saw a video of a women with locs applying relaxer to her edges. Mind blown! Then, I began to wonder why anyone would apply a relaxer to their edges when they wear the majority of their hair in a natural state?! Now, I can’t personally speak on anyone’s behalf so I can only assume the goal is to have sleek edges. “Laying your edges”, as its typically known, is very common in our community; but it is rooted in the aspiration to appeal to the European “standards of beauty”. Personally, I believe you should embrace your natural texture and redefine what the root (pun-intended lol) of beauty is for you!

However, I do understand that not everyone shares those same sentiments. So, in the interest of hair care, I am going to share with you a few tips for properly applying edge control so that you don’t lose your edges!




Do’s & Don’ts of Edge Control for Locs

Don’t Use A Lot of Product. A little bit goes a long way with edge control. In the salon, I’ve used a whole jar of edge control for months. Which means, you should only need one jar for a year or longer. I share an example in the video “Edge Control Tips for Women with Locs” of how to properly apply edge control.

 
Do Slightly Dampen the Hair. Before you apply any edge control on your locs, make sure your edges are slightly wet. This will help your edges stay sleek & smooth for longer.

 
Don’t Use a harsh product. Products that are filled with alcohol, petroleum, or wax can suffocate the hairline, lead to thinning/breakage, or cause dry scalp. Also, remember that even though you are applying the edge control to your edges that area of your hair is still a foundation for locs.

 
Do use a soft brush. One way to avoid using too much product is by applying a small amount and using a soft brush to spread it. Emphasis on soft because you don’t want to be too abrasive with your hairline.

 
WHERE TO BUY: Soft Brush for Locs


 
Don’t apply edge control daily! Constantly manipulating your roots, especially in a way that evolves tension, is a recipe for thinning or worse. I would recommend using edge control no more than 2 times per week. So, choose your days wisely.

 
And lastly…

 
Do Use a Sanex Strip While Drying to Maintain Sleekness. You may find that when you apply edge control, because your hair is textured, that it may quickly revert. Well, if you follow the aforementioned “do’s” and then use a sanex strip while they are drying your edges will stay in place.

 

I hope these tips help you if you are currently or thinking about applying edge control on your edges with locs. Also, in the video “Edge Control Tips for Women With Locs“, I also share a bonus tip for how to properly wearing your scarf at night to ensure your edges can stay sleek for longer!

Let me know in the comments if you have any other tips for applying edge control to your locs!

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Jocelyn Reneé

Jocelyn Reneé is a Licensed Cosmetologist, Loctician and Textured Hair Educator. She was born and raised in the Washington DC area and is a graduate of the Aveda Institute Cosmetology Science program. With over 14 years in the Hair Care Industry, from Salon Assistant to Natural Hair Blogger to Professional; Jocelyn is passionate about cultivating healthy hair.

Blog Comments

I don’t use edge control. I’ve never used edge control. I love my Naptural edges and wear them with pride. So does my daughter. She’s been natural her whole life (21) and I went back to natural 10 years ago (loc’ed for 5). Thank you for your informative messages and articles.

Thank YOU for reading and also making the time to leave me a comment! I truly appreciate you!

Great information just started my journey will take edge contol advice to ❤. Thanks Sisrah

I am really enjoying your articles. You’ve replaced Facebook as my go to!

Appreciate you.

Awww thanks so much Tere! This is motivating to continue to write more articles. Let me know if there is anything that you would like to see/read!

Great articles you’re a blessing for locs etc. I would like to ask is there anyway you can cover gray roots so your locs could be one color?

You can color your roots but if your hair is naturally gray you will have to constantly color (every 8 weeks) your new growth.

Enjoy the guidance on edge control great information!

I’ve been locd for 9 months now and just started using edge control every now and then about a month ago. In all honesty less manipulation is best for my locs, edges included. They’ve always been thin because Ives always have done something to them, when I went back to being a loose natural I saw them flourish in a way had never seen before.

Useful information on edge control. Funny enough i tried it approximately 3 weeks ago. The jury is out on this, but may use on special occasions

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