When it comes to edge controls, there is no such thing as ‘one product for all!’ While we can agree that the primary function of an edge tamer is to lay your hair down to make it look frizz-free. But what works for hair type 1C won’t do much for the 4C hair.
The 4C hair, aka kinky hair, is fluffy, non-porous, and brittle. People with 4C type also have a lot of baby hair. Flyaway and frizzes are common concerns. So, having a constant supply of edge control falls under necessity.
However, like many of us, did you try a dozen products and were disappointed by all of them? If so, we have some good news! We have listed the five best edge controls that your curls would simply love!
But before you jump into taking a peek at our review section, let’s get to know the two most important factors while buying an edge tamer for your curly tresses. Knowing them is important if you want to get the best edge control for your4C hair.
Strength of Hold: For the 4C hair type, you would need a strong edge control. It should have enough hold to last through the day and give you a clean look. This type of hair is super poofy. So, a product that won’t melt under the sun is perhaps the best.
Moisturizing Agent: The kinky hair tends to be brittle as they are non-porous. Hence, the more moisture your hair products have, the better. It will promote hair health by preventing breakage and damage. An edge control that adds moisture will do a better job when it concerns 4C type hair.
If you want to know more about what other things you should factor in, take a look at our ”Buying Guide.”
Top 5 Edge Control to Manage 4C Hair Type
| Edge Control | Key ingredients | Hold | Quantity | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carol's Daughter Black Vanilla Edge Control | shea butter, aloe, almond oil | Strong | 2 oz | CHECK ON AMAZON |
| Hicks Total Transformations Edges Styling Gels | castor oil, Glyceryl Cocoate, Propylene Glycol | Strong | 4 oz | CHECK ON AMAZON |
| Ebin 24 Hour Edge Tamer | Argan oil | Super Strong | 8.25 oz | CHECK ON AMAZON |
| Design Essentials Sleek MAX Edge Control | Glycerin, water, castor oil, and Caprylyl Glycol | Medium | 2.3 oz | CHECK ON AMAZON |
| JC's Instant Control Edge & Braid Gel | aqua, glycerol Cocoate, glycerin, castor oil, coconut oil | Strong | 4 oz | CHECK ON AMAZON |
1. Carol’s Daughter Black Vanilla Edge Control Smoother
If the frizzes of your 4C hair get in your way of looking sleek and trendy, then you can always rely on Carol’s Daughter Black Vanilla edge control to smoothen them out.
The Carol’s Daughter Black Vanilla Edge control is best for the type C hair in general. From hair type 1C to 4C, this edge tamer can take care of the tightest curls.
The product comes in a 2oz jar and is packed with hydrating ingredients like shea butter, aloe, almond oil, etc. With this product, your brittle hair can drink into the moisture, which it always has been craving.
It is the best edge control for 4c hair that will keep your edges and flyaway in control all day long. Besides, you do not need to plan your shampoo schedule around it. It applies dry, and you can comb through it easily.
Carol’s Daughter Black Vanilla does not contain any paraben, petroleum, mineral oil, or artificial colors. It is made of ingredients that benefit your tresses and has a fragrance that will capture your heart.
Pros:
- Applies dry
- Does not contain harmful chemicals
- Moisturizes 4c hair well
- Makes hair manageable for long
Cons:
- Quantity is a bit less
2. Hicks Total Transformations Edges Styling Gels
When it comes to taming stubborn 4C edges, hick edge control is simply one of the best. People with kinky hair laud this brand globally and swears by its effectiveness.
If you have tried most products in the market, and still are unable to find that one edge control that can keep your kinky hair in control, go for the Hicks Transformations Edge styling gel.
Overall, we find Hicks edge control to be one of the best in the market because of its strong hold on your hair. It does its job way too well. However, the one thing that did not impress s is the fact that this edge control leaves a slight residue. However, it allows you to achieve the exact neat glam look you are going for.
The jar contains 4 oz of product in it. Ingredients like castor oil, Glyceryl Cocoate, Propylene Glycol, render shine, and add smoothness to your frizzy curls. You can use it to do any hairstyle that your hair permits and keep it in place for long.
Pros:
- Thick formula with a clear texture
- Holds down hair for long
- Does not make hair feel sticky
Cons:
- Leaves build-up residue
3. Ebin 24 Hour Edge Tamer
Managing the most unmanageable hair is an easy-breezy affair when you have the Ebin edge control in your grip.
It is a salon-quality edge tamer that works best on Brazilian and virgin hair. You can most definitely count on this product when it comes to keeping a hold on your 4C hair all day long.
Also, if you are searching for one product that can take care of the needs of the entire family, then this is just the right one for you. The jar contains about 8.25 oz. of product and comes at a pretty reasonable price tag.
This world-class edge tamer contains argan oil, that is supremely beneficial to your hair. It soothes, nourishes, and strengthens your kinky 4c hair to make it look sleek for hours.
If you want to look terrific in your cornrow, braids, or coiled bob hairstyles, then you have got to try out the Ebin edge control. This product does not leave any white residue if you use it in an average quantity.
However, we recommend you to not go extra-liberal with it. You might get a bit of residue. In case a white tinge is left on your hair, just brush your locks with a bit of water, and it will all be gone in seconds.
Pros:
- Super strong grip
- Value for money
- The nourishing formula contains argan oil
Cons:
- Leaves white residue if you over-apply
4. Design Essentials Sleek MAX Edge Control
Tired of the icky build-ups and embarrassing flakes? If so, then the Design Essential Sleek Max Edge control is your friend. It will bring order to your unique 4c tresses and make your dream hairstyle manageable.
The jar contains 2.3 oz. of products. Its key ingredients are Glycerin, water, castor oil, and Caprylyl Glycol.
This edge tamer is transparent with a gel-like consistency. You don’t need to wash your hair every time you want to change your hairstyle if you use this product. It is a non-greasy edge control formula that works wonders on all textures of hair.
Be it a coiled, curly, straight, or frizzy hair, this product by Design Essential is the best for all. You just need to apply pea-size quantity to achieve a strong, manageable hold.
Not only will this edge tamer lay your hair down, but also add a shine to it. Furthermore, it prevents hair breakage. You can apply it on dry or wet hair.
Although it gives a decent, strong grip in the initial hours, it is not as long-lasting as the other products we have listed so far, especially if you are under the sun.
Pros:
- Does not leave residue
- Suitable for all hair type
- Keeps hair healthy by preventing breakage
Cons:
- Does not work great under the sun
5. JC’s Instant Control Edge & Braid Gel
If you prefer an edge tamer that works fast and gives you a medium to strong grip while enriching your hair texture, then you should go for the Instant Control Edge & Braid Gel. You will not need a lot of products to lay down the edges, but it will stay for long hours.
The jar contains 4 oz. of product. Its key ingredients are aqua, glycerol Cocoate, glycerin, castor oil, coconut oil. It is one of the best edge controls for 4c hair type because it has a strong grip, does not melt easily, and does not flake at all.
Some of the customers reviewed that it leaves white residue if you use it in a generous amount. So, we advise you to use it a little quantity.
Pros:
- A little quantity suffices
- Dries out quickly
- Gives a firm hold and makes coiled hair manageable
Cons:
- Can leave an ashy residue if used in large quantity
Things to Consider While Purchasing Edge Control for 4C Hair Type
The 4C hair is unique and has characteristics like no other type. Hence, while you purchase an edge control to manage your tresses, you should keep the following things in mind.
1. Hold of the Product
If you have 4C hair type, an edge tamer that has a stronger hold is preferable. However, if you think that you aren’t going to wear it for long, a product that has a medium grip will do a decent job as well.
The primary feature of an edge control is to make kinky and curly hair frizz-free and lay them down. However, if you can manage to get hold of an edge tamer that makes your tresses sleeker and shinier, it is perhaps better.
2. Key Ingredients
The best edge controls have nourishing agents listed under key ingredients. The 4C hair is extremely coiled and is mostly non-porous. Hence, it is best to use hair products that have moisturizing agents like castor oil, glycerin, argan oil, coconut oil, etc.
Also, you might want to avoid products that have mineral oil, paraben, sulfates, and phthalates in them. These agents can cause hair damage and leave a residue if not washed properly. You certainly don’t want that!
3. Quantity of the Product
Quantity of a product often determines its value for money. Hence, while choosing an edge control, do keep an eye on the quantity. Also, do not judge a product solely based on its price. Do consider the quantity.
If you are purchasing an edge control solely for yourself, then a jar with 2oz. should be good. But if your entire family has the same type of hair, a product with a minimum of 5oz quantity is best.
4. Fragrance
When it comes to hair care product, fragrance matters a lot. A foul-smelling edge tamer will likely give you a splitting headache, while one that soothes your senses will make you feel elated. Purchase an edge control with a pleasant fragrance. Also, the fragrance should preferably not be overpowering.
5. Brand of the Edge Control
Last but not least, the brand of a hair care product is a crucial factor of consideration. We are not saying that lesser-known brands aren’t likely to manufacture quality products. But the more popular brands like Carol’s Daughter, Hicks, Design Essential are perhaps more likely to make decent products.
If you think logically, a popular brand earns its popularity because customers like its products. So, it is better to rely on popular brands when you are choosing something for your hair.
Conclusion:
All the products listed above are the best for 4C hair. They are strong, safe, and moisturizing. These edge tamers will keep your hair in good shape while preventing damage.
All 5 products are superb edge controls for 4C hair. But if we had to pick one, we would choose the ”Carol’s Daughter Black Vanilla Edge Control Smoother.” This one is particularly suitable for 4C tresses. It does not leave a residue, stays for long, is moisturizing, and has a lovely fragrance that will lift up your spirit and rejuvenate your senses.
We hope this article on the best edge tamers was of help. And if you intend to purchase any product from the list you just read, you are most likely to love your purchase.