How To Lay Edges and Perfect Your Baby Hairs

Long gone are the days of being annoyed by your baby hairs. In fact, these short, unruly hairs are now a feature that’s stylish to draw attention to. Some of the most popular natural hairstyles just so happen to look amazing with laid edges—and we’re loving it. With the right hair-styling tools and edge control products, you’ll be a pro at laying your edges in no time! Ready to become a baby hair styling wiz? Below, we’re teaching you how to lay edges and answering all of your questions about hairstyles with edges.

WHAT ARE LAID EDGES?

Laid edges, which are a popular style among Black women, refer to soft and sleek baby hairs along your hairline that have been styled. The edges can be swirled and shaped to add a bit of flair to your look. This is done with an edge control product and a small brush—like a clean toothbrush or spoolie—which together can be used to smooth your baby hairs into your desired shape. Edge control products come in various formulas, including long-lasting picks and soft, lightweight options to complement your hair texture.

WHY SHOULD YOU LAY YOUR EDGES?

Laid edges are the perfect finishing touch to almost any hairstyle, which makes it easy to answer why you should lay your edges. Beyond that, if you have a curly texture, laid edges can go a long way in giving you a well-polished and sleek look. Of course, if you love the way your hair looks without slick edges, this may not be the trend for you.

IS LAYING YOUR EDGES BAD FOR YOUR HAIR?

Much like any other hairstyle, whether or not it’s bad for your hair usually depends on the hair-styling products you choose. Depending on the edge control formula you use, frequent usage can cause buildup, flakes, and breakage. Not to mention, some edge control formulas are made with harsh ingredients, like alcohol, that can take a toll on your baby hairs. As long as you’re using moisturizing offerings and a gentle hand, your baby hairs will be safe.

HOW TO LAY EDGES

We’re sharing six tips on how to lay edges so that you can embrace this natural hair look.

TIP #1: WORK WITH DAMP HAIR

Our first tip? Wet your hair! While you don’t want your baby hairs to be soaking wet, you certainly don’t want them dry either. Use a spray bottle to spritz water onto a small boar-bristle brush (or toothbrush—more on that later).

TIP #2: MAKE A TOOTHBRUSH YOUR NEW HAIR STYLING TOOL

While a boar-bristle brush can get the job done, you’ll find that a clean, unused toothbrush will give you much more control and allow you to easily pull barely-there hairs forward. Use your dampened toothbrush to do just that—brush your baby hairs forward and down your forehead.

TIP #3: USE THE RIGHT EDGE CONTROL PRODUCT

As we noted above, the key to laying edges is using the right edge control product, which could be either a hair gel or pomade meant specifically for styling baby hairs. Choose a formula that best suits your needs like a hard, long-lasting option or something with a softer hold. It’s also a good idea to look for a product that’s moisturizing and doesn’t have too much alcohol in the formula.

TIP #4: CURL YOUR BABY HAIRS THE RIGHT WAY

Once you’ve picked out your edge control product, you’ll need just a drop to shape your baby hairs. Place a tiny amount on your toothbrush and brush your hairs, so that they’re curling toward your hairline. Try a simple curve or get a little more creative with a wave shape, depending on the length of your baby hairs and the look you’re going for; you just don’t want your baby hairs to be curving down your forehead.

TIP #5: SET YOUR EDGES

Last but not least, it’s important to set your baby hairs. To do so, wrap your hair in a silk scarf. You can do this for a few minutes before heading out the door or overnight if you’re laying your edges in advance. Just like baking your makeup, this will give your hair gel or pomade time to set so that your baby hairs stay styled all day and night!

TIP #6: PUT YOUR HAIR UP

As much as we love the look of locks that hang free, when you lay your edges, it’s best to put your hair up. You wouldn’t want to spend all that time styling your baby hairs only for them not to be seen, would you? Of course not! Whether you opt for a half-up hairstyle, a ponytail, or a bun is totally your call, but be sure to have your face-framing strands pulled back and away from your hairline.

THE BEST HAIRSTYLES WITH EDGES

Laid edges can adorn just about any hairstyle, but it never hurts to get inspiration. Keep reading for five chic hairstyles with edges.

1. HIGH PONYTAIL

A pony is one of the most foolproof hairstyles out there, and that definitely holds true when you add baby hairs into the mix. Pull your hair up high to show off your amazing cheekbones and your perfectly laid edges.

2. HIGH PUFF

Want to pair your natural hair with laid edges? Consider styling your locks into a high puff! A super-chic way to flaunt your natural texture and frame your face, this hairstyle is a top pick for a good reason. Add a touch of hair gel, like the L’Oréal Paris Studio Line Clean Gel to your roots. Brush your hair toward the center of your head, and create a ponytail. Fluff your curls, style your edges, and you’re all set.

3. SLEEK BUN

Slicked edges and a sleek bun go together like no other. Secure all of your hair into a tight bun at the nape of your neck for a winning combo.

4. FAUX HAWK

If you love the idea of bold hairstyles, the faux hawk will suit your fancy. Another hairstyle that puts your features on full display; we have a feeling that this edgy style will become one of your favorites. Start by applying a generous amount of hair mousse, like the L’Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle CURVE IT Elastic Curl Mousse to damp strands, scrunch, and let air dry.

Once dry, slick a dime-sized amount of hair gel onto the sides of your hair and brush upward. Fluff your texture in the middle and lay your edges to complete your look.

5. CORNROWS

Braids—cornrows in particular—and baby hairs are another pairing that’s nothing short of perfect. Not to mention, it’s one way to take your protective hairstyle to the next level! Speaking of which…

Next: The 30 Best Protective Hairstyles for Natural Hair