The Best Edge Controls For 4C Hair
Being a naturalista requires major strength and resilience. From long wash days to finding products that work for your coils, you have to put in work. There are different types of curl patterns and thanks to celebrity hairstylist, Andre Walker, and naturalistas all over the world, we have a better understanding of the strands that make up our crowns.
"ABC, it's easy as 123" is not the case for 4C hair. 4C hair resembles 4B textures with tight zig-zag coils which explains why they experience 75 percent more shrinkage, unlike other types. Other characteristics include proneness to breakage, softness, and potential dryness. Needless to say, you have to be extremely intentional when choosing products for your 4C hair which requires next-level patience.
We know that laid edges are important to Black women as they are part of our heritage. We also know that it may be difficult to find edge controls for 4C hair. Without further ado curlfriends, get ready for some edge controls that will rock your world!
1.She is Bomb Edge Control
The moment my stylist slapped this edge control on my curly edges, I knew that the hold was real. It is fast-drying, non-greasy, and will not falter even in the highest of temperatures. For optimal results, pair this product with their Fuse Foam for ultimate snatchedness. This is a newer brand so you may not find many reviews but I can personally attest to the magic that is She is Bomb.
2.Ebin 24 Hour Edge Tamer
Dubbed as the industry game-changer, Ebin's 24 Hour Edge Tamer will keep you laid and slayed from day to night. Whether you're going for a sleek ponytail or a braided style, you can rely on this product to provide a stronghold mightier than Serena Williams' biceps.
3.Style Factor Edge Booster Strong Hold Styling Gel
"Style Factor passionately serves as your hair styling and haircare expert. We work to empower and inspire all women and men to pursue their own distinct and colorful styles." One of their most acclaimed offerings is their Edge Booster Strong Hold Water-based Pomade – both water-soluble and free of grease, it will give you versatility and zero flakes. Because it's made with natural argan oil, your edges will also be blessed with nourishment and hydration. Not to mention they offer a slew of scents that all smell like heaven.
4.Miss Jessie’s Hold Me Down Edge Gel
We love to be held down. Be it our significant others or our edges, we need safety as prominent as Beyonce's security detail. The curlfriends say that this magic product stays true to holding you down all day long AND it doesn't leave behind residue even for the thickest of curls. Since 2004, Miss Jessie's creators and sisters Miko and Titi Branch, have been a trusted resource for the girls and their curls.
5.Instant Control Edge & Braid Gel Max Hold
For edges, braiding and twisting, Pomade Company's Instant Control is for everybody. One reviewer said, "I'm not even exaggerating, this stuff lays down every single hair it touches. I'm a hairstylist and all my clients have naturally curly hair. Their hair is usually the hardest to keep down, especially here in Arizona where everyone is hot and sweating. Not anymore now."
6.Kaleidoscope Miracle Edges Control
Are you struggling with difficult edges? Have you searched near and far for an edge control that will really work a miracle? Kaleidoscope's Miracle Edges is what's been missing in your life. It is infused with miracle drops sure to strengthen and lay your edges. Because we need both. You can use it as an edge smoother or pomade; it is recommended for all hair types. "On relaxed hair when you apply it, it can last 5-7 days. For natural hair, when you apply to edges, you should also apply to 1/4 inch back to get the ultimate hold and lasts 3-5 days."
7.Arcani Coil Care Enthroned Edges
You may have seen the #RubChallenge pop up on your social media feeds. If you haven't, just know that it is mind-blowing. Basically, this edge control shall not be moved. Enthroned Edges not only sounds like what God wants for me but it also lives up to its name by treating your crown with all the compassion it deserves. Customers rave that this product actually lasts for 24 hours and is humidity-friendly. For a lack of better words, hurry up and get you some, sis!
Featured image by Getty Images
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Joce Blake is a womanist who loves fashion, Beyonce and Hot Cheetos. The sophistiratchet enthusiast is based in Brooklyn, NY but has southern belle roots as she was born and raised in Memphis, TN. Keep up with her on Instagram @joce_blake and on Twitter @SaraJessicaBee.
ItGirl 100 Honors Black Women Who Create Culture & Put On For Their Cities
As they say, create the change you want to see in this world, besties. That’s why xoNecole linked up with Hyundai for the inaugural ItGirl 100 List, a celebration of 100 Genzennial women who aren’t afraid to pull up their own seats to the table. Across regions and industries, these women embody the essence of discovering self-value through purpose, honey! They're fierce, they’re ultra-creative, and we know they make their cities proud.
VIEW THE FULL ITGIRL 100 LIST HERE.
Don’t forget to also check out the ItGirl Directory, featuring 50 Black-woman-owned marketing and branding agencies, photographers and videographers, publicists, and more.
THE ITGIRL MEMO
I. An ItGirl puts on for her city and masters her self-worth through purpose.
II. An ItGirl celebrates all the things that make her unique.
III. An ItGirl empowers others to become the best versions of themselves.
IV. An ItGirl leads by example, inspiring others through her actions and integrity.
V. An ItGirl paves the way for authenticity and diversity in all aspects of life.
VI. An ItGirl uses the power of her voice to advocate for positive change in the world.
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I Tried Beyoncé's Haircare Line CÉCRED & Here's My Honest Review
Beyoncé is snatching our wallets yet again with her latest business venture CÉCRED. In 2023, the Texas native hinted at a potential haircare line when she posted this photo causing fans to speculate that her next project would be focused on her famous tresses - they were right. Her haircare line Cécred launched on February 20 with her first drop called The Foundation Collection which focuses on haircare first, and I can only assume that a style product line for colored-treated hair will likely follow since Beyoncé is known for slaying various shades of blonde.
As a super fan since the early 2000s, it was only right that I give an honest review of the full line and purchase the Super Fan Bundle (retailed at $265) which includes the full product line of the 8 products, as well as a branded cosmetic bag. If you’re thinking, “Girl that bundle is too pricey for me,” I can assure you that for the value you're getting, the price is quite reasonable. This bundle was an intentional and marketable way to allow consumers to experience every Cécred product.
The brand messaging surrounding Cécred has been salon-inspired, and rightfully so as an ode to Beyoncé’s upbringing growing up in her mother’s hair salon in Houston. This line is backed by science and licensed cosmetologists showing that she’s done her research and appointed the experts. Cécred's IG feed has been filled with images and videos inside of hair salons including some videos of Ms. Tina herself assisting in the styling of beauty experts who visited Cécred's private salon to have the VIP treatment!
Now, have I seen influencers, consumers, and beauty stylists using the Foundation Collection at home? Yes, but I thought it was best to experience Cécred with my go-to cosmetologist who also happens to be my Auntie Tawana. She has been my educator and go-to for hair knowledge since I was a child and has had a hand in my mom's hair health which has always been goals for me. As a little girl, my Saturdays were spent sitting in her hair salon while my mama got her hair done as I patiently waited reading Jet and ESSENCE, ever so carefully eavesdropping on the conversations of the ladies who were coming for much more than just a beauty routine, but an experience.
I’d fall asleep on the plush couch in the waiting area flipping through magazines while listening to the sultry sounds of Maxwell. And I had my first lesson in breakup empowerment when I heard Sunshine Anderson’s “Heard It All Before.” So there was no other place for me to go than to see her, and because I’m her niece, I was able to visit her private salon in her home that she calls The After Hours where upon arrival I was greeted with my favorite Black-owned sparkling Rosé, candles lit, and my aunt’s breakdown of Cécred.
Yasmine Jameelah/xoNecole
But let me refocus and share my salon experience as I tried Cécred for the first time.
If You’re Wondering…Who is Cécred For?
Yasmine Jameelah/xoNecole
When news of Beyoncé potentially launching a beauty brand hit the internet, there were a bunch of predictions of what and who the line would be marketed towards and if she’d have any wig care products as she’s known for slaying her units! But she went in a totally different direction which I love, and I’m going to tell you why. Critics have questioned if Beyoncé should be venturing into the haircare industry because she is often seen in weaves and wigs, but true Beyoncé fans know that she has healthy hair and that, like many Black women, experiments with various styles.
Cécred was created for all hair types and textures, including straight to coily, virgin, color-treated, chemically processed, and heat-styled. As a Black woman who has worn wigs, had chemically processed hair, heat-styled, natural, and color-treated hair, let me tell you, this was no easy feat! The amount of money I’ve spent on my hair through its various changes just on product alone, forget styling has been astronomical.
Cécred is serving the needs of various hair types in textures and I truly believe that this is going to make Beyoncé a true competitor in the hair industry amongst brands that are comparable such as OUAI and Olaplex. Both competitor brands have similar items at a higher price point and unlike Cécred, their products and brand messaging haven’t always felt inclusive to Black women and other hair types.
Cécred has been tested inclusively and the reviews from various hair types and backgrounds of consumers are allowing the brand to stand out.
I Tried Beyoncé's Haircare Line Cécred: My Honest Review
Yasmine Jameelah/xoNecole
Yasmine Jameelah/xoNecole
My hair has never felt cleaner and it shined for well over a week following the styling (but the oil should be used sparingly if like me, oil can weigh down your hair.) Immediately when my hair touched the sink, my aunt told me that she saw all the dirt and oils lifting from my hair when she applied the clarifying shampoo. As a girl who loves my curls, I am often judgy when I use any other shampoo and conditioner aside from Pattern, but not this time.
When my aunt guided my hands across my hair, she showed me how my curls weren’t tangled, and how she didn’t need to comb out my curls before applying the moisturizing deep conditioner or the deconstructing treatment mask.
Yasmine Jameelah/xoNecole
She applied each step with care and walked me through the process, and to my surprise, the hair mask wasn’t thick - but through trial and error as a natural girl, I’ve learned that a thick mask doesn’t always equal what’s best for your hair. She styled me with a silk press that left my hair with shine and I can honestly say that each step of the line is needed especially if you are someone who changes up your hair and deals with breakage. If your hair is healthy, you can opt out of the reconstructing treatment mask but I recommend taking the product line to your salon, having a discussion with your stylist on where your hair health needs improvement, and then purchasing based on that.
We know ourselves better than anyone else, but your stylist knows your hair better than you do. I like to lead with their knowledge first and then incorporate what my hair goals are. If you’re a girly who’s committed to hair health and has either the discipline to incorporate each step at home or can bring your products to the salon, Cécred is for you no matter if you’re a silk press or a wash-and-go naturalist.
Give Cécred a try, I’ll be using the line for my hair appointments until it runs out and if I see long-term results, it will be added to the beauty regimen indefinitely.
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Featured image courtesy of CÉCRED