For Black women, edges are a vital part of maintaining a healthy, beautiful hairline and are often a key focus of natural hair care routines.
However, certain popular hairstyles can put tension and strain on the edges, leading to thinning or hair loss.
Protecting your edges involves choosing styles that minimize stress on this delicate area, allowing for healthy hair growth.
Here are some common hairstyles to be mindful of and tips for keeping your edges intact.
- Tight Braids and Cornrows
Braids and cornrows are classic, protective styles that offer versatility and low maintenance, but when done too tightly, they can put intense tension on the hairline. This excessive pulling damages the hair follicles, leading to a type of hair loss called traction alopecia. Opt for looser braids and make sure your stylist doesn’t pull too tightly on the edges. If you’re braiding your own hair, be gentle on your scalp, especially around the hairline.
- Sleek Ponytails and Buns
Sleek, pulled-back styles like high ponytails and buns create a polished look, but they often require gelling and tightly securing the hair. Wearing these styles too often or keeping them very tight can strain the edges and lead to breakage over time. To reduce damage, alternate sleek styles with looser options and consider using softer hair ties that won’t tug on your hair. Applying a light, nourishing oil to your edges before styling can also offer extra protection.
- Weaves and Wigs
While weaves and wigs allow for style flexibility and can protect natural hair from daily manipulation, they can damage edges if improperly installed. Tight braiding of natural hair underneath a weave or using strong adhesives for wig application can pull on the hairline, causing thinning edges. If you choose to wear weaves or wigs, ensure that the installation is not too tight, and avoid excessive use of adhesives or glue. Opt for styles that allow your natural hair to breathe and give your edges a break periodically.
- Tight Twist-Outs and Bantu Knots
Twist-outs and Bantu knots are beloved for creating defined curls, but if twisted too tightly, these styles can pull on the edges and lead to breakage. When creating these styles, use gentle tension and avoid twisting close to the roots, particularly around the hairline. Using lightweight styling products that don’t cause excessive buildup can also reduce stress on your edges.
Protecting your edges
Edges are delicate and deserve extra care in any hair care routine. To keep your edges healthy, try incorporating edge-protecting products such as gentle edge controls, natural oils, and silk scarves or satin pillowcases that reduce friction and breakage.
Regularly massaging your edges with a nourishing oil like castor oil can stimulate growth and strengthen the hair. Lastly, give your hair breaks between styles that pull on the edges, allowing for rest and recovery.
By choosing edge-friendly styles and practicing proper hair care, you can protect your hairline, allowing your natural beauty to thrive without sacrificing your edges.
