Black girl’s edges are pretty delicate. Edges, also known as baby hairs, are delicate hairs, fine in texture, that frame an individual’s hairline. Healthy edges should be prioritized in every black girl’s hair care routine because they are prone to damage, thinning and breakage. Certain hairstyles or harsh products can easily create stress on an individual’s edges. Besides, aggressive styling and neglect can lead to breakage and, in some severe cases, can lead to permanent hair loss, causing edge damage. I’ll cover some of the common causes of thinning edges, and what you can do to restore your black girl edges!
Causes of Thinning Edges
1. Tight hairstyles: Some braided hairstyles, such as island twist braids or knotless braids, can cause tension on the hairline as they lead to thinning edges and alopecia.
2. Overuse of edge control gels: Edge control gels such as shine and jam gel, are the go-to for most individuals who want to achieve that sleek baby hair look. However, one has to be wary of such products as excessive use can weaken the edges.
3. Heat styling: Exposing black girl edges to constant heat from hot combs or flat irons can lead to thinning and hair breakage.
4. Chemical treatments: Treatments such as texturizers and relaxers can weaken an individual’s edges. This is especially the case when one needs to treat their hair with anti-breakage protein treatments properly. This is one of the reasons that led to my thinning edges.
Black Girl Edges Care
- 1. Moisture is key: Regularly moisturising your edges can help in ensuring that they stay strong and healthy. To ensure effective moisturization, you can use coconut oil, jojoba oil, or castor oil. These oils help in sealing in moisture. Furthermore, water-based products are also very effective in ensuring your edges are moisturized.
- 2. Avoid tight hairstyles: Avoid doing tight hairstyles such as knotless braids regularly, as doing so can affect black girl edges hairline.
- 3. Quit overusing edge control gels: It is okay to use edge control gels occasionally, but doing so every single day can create significant tension. Therefore, it is essential to control your use of edge control.
- 4. Protect hair at night: Before recharging to bed, one can use satin or silk pillowcases and bonnets to protect one’s edges.
How to Restore Thinning Edges
- 1. Have a nutrient-rich diet. Ensure that your diet is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and vitamins C, A, and E. These vitamins help maintain scalp health and promote hair growth.
- 2. Incorporate growth-stimulating oil. Consider using oils such as tea tree, rosemary, and castor oil, which are known for stimulating one’s scalp and restoring damaged hair.
- 3. Consider using hair growth gummies. In recent years, gummies have gained prominence as they are fun to use and are a valuable addition to one’s daily routine. I highly recommend biotin hair gummies to enhance an individual’s hair growth and strength. Fun fact: biotin is a supplement that helps strengthen nails and hair and improves one’s skin.
- 4. Minimize chemical and heat treatments. I often see some hair stylists use flat irons to straighten their edges. However, I would not recommend this, as direct heat application on edges can contribute to their thinning.
- 5. Select the right products. Before purchasing a hair product, ensure that it is not alcohol-based and free of harsh chemicals. Alcohol can significantly dry out hair, which leads to further breakage. Always opt for natural products and even consider making hair masks such as the Ayurvedic hair mask at home.
- 6. Opt for Minoxidil. In very severe cases, you can opt to use Minoxidil. An FDA-approved product for hair loss can help in dealing with extreme cases of hair loss and alopecia. You can always use 5-2% solutions, depending on your preference. I have written an entire article on Minoxidil. Therefore, be sure to check it out.
For Mild to Moderate Thinning
These products are great for general hair health and growth. They nourish the scalp and stimulate hair follicles to encourage regrowth over time.
- Jamaican Black Castor Oil
This thick oil is known for its ability to promote hair growth and strengthen edges. It is packed with omega-6 and omega-9 fatty acids, which help nourish the scalp and increase circulation. Apply directly to your edges a few times a week for best results.- Recommended Brands: Tropic Isle Living, SheaMoisture
- Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Scalp & Hair Strengthening Oil
This oil contains rosemary and mint, which are known to stimulate hair growth. The formula is lightweight and easy to apply, making it ideal for regular use on thinning edges.- Benefits: Strengthens weak hair, promotes growth, and soothes the scalp.
- The Mane Choice Multi-Vitamin Scalp Nourishing Oil
This product is packed with essential vitamins and nutrients for healthy hair growth. It is formulated to stimulate slow and inactive hair follicles.- Benefits: Helps prevent hair breakage and promotes thicker, fuller hair.
- Wild Growth Hair Oil
Known for its blend of natural oils, Wild Growth Hair Oil helps to nourish the scalp and improve hair thickness. It can be applied directly to your edges to promote regrowth.- Benefits: Contains olive oil, coconut oil, and jojoba oil for deep nourishment.
Key takeaways
Maintaining healthy edges takes time, but it’s worth the effort. Consistent care not only prevents damage but also promotes growth and thickness, enhancing the overall look of your hair. Firm edges frame your face beautifully and help you feel more confident in any hairstyle.
All in all, restoring damaged edges is vital to improving one’s confidence. I provide practical tips, such as using a moisture-rich diet and biotin gummies, to help with thinning edges. Make sure to customize all these practical tips to your preferences and personal experiences.