How To Do Edges

How To Do Edges: A Beginner's Guide

If you have textured hair, then you probably already know what edges are. If you don’t know what edges are, we’re here to explain. Also known as baby hairs, edges are the short hairs located along the hairline of kinky, curly, and coily hair types. Smoothing down your edges can create a stunning, face-framing result. 

Let’s look at several popular ways you can style yours and how AFAM products can help you create the perfect edge.

Popular Ways to Style Your Edges

woman styling her edges

The edges trend may have started edging its way to popularity in recent years. However, styled edges have been gracing textured hair types since the 1920s. Remember Betty Boop? Yep, she had edges. In this section, we’ll lay out three popular ways you can style your own edges.

Tips to own your edges

Finger Waves

Finger waves are a timeless look that will hold no matter where you go. If you have short hair, then finger waves will be your best friend. This style seamlessly combines your edges with the rest of your hairstyle for a glamorous finish. Use a dollop of a conditioning gel, duckbill clips, and hairspray for a ‘do that holds all day.

Soft & Subtle

For an effortless look, try soft and subtle edges. These edges are ideal for those with Type 3A to 3C curls and are perfect for those mornings when you’re tight on time.

There are two ways to achieve this look. The first way is by applying extreme edge control to your edges and tying a silk scarf around them for roughly 15 to 30 minutes. The second technique is to blow dry your edges with a low heat setting to set them in place.

Sleek & Chic

Need a hairstyle that screams office chic? Try a smooth, sleek look that will have you doing double takes in the mirror. If you have Type 4 hair, you can slick your locks back with a heavy hair gel and sport a perfect poof on top of your crown. The best part is that this style requires minimal effort for maximum results.

What Products Work Best for Edges?

Perfecting your edges takes a bit of practice—but once you follow our three-step method, you’ll become an edge-styling master. Before you begin styling your edges, you’ll want to ensure that you have the right products. Depending on your desired look, AFAM has an entire collection of edge styling products that you can choose from.

Now, let’s get started.

Step 1: Smooth & Separate Your Edges

Using a fine tooth comb, comb out your baby hairs and smooth them in your desired direction. Make sure you’re using a comb that won’t catch or damage your edges as baby hairs must be handled with care.

Step 2: Use Boar Bristles To Shape Your Edges

Using an edge control product of your choice, grab a natural boar bristle brush and start swooping. Natural boar bristles are gentle and will help evenly distribute your edge product. If you have coarser hair, you will want to apply more edge control than someone with finer hair.

Step 3: Add the Finishing Touches

Finally, use a sharp tip to define the form of your edges. Once you’ve shaped your edges into your desired style, you can top them off with a small amount of hairspray. Let your edges set under a silk scarf for a few minutes.

Now? You’re ready to slay the day.

Perfect Your Edges With AFAM

Edges are like the frame to the masterpiece otherwise known as your beautiful face. At AFAM, you can explore our extensive range of edge care and styling products. From extreme edge control to conditioning gel, there’s a product that your specific hair type won’t be able to get enough of.

Shop Edge Styling