Your edges, or the fine hairs around your hairline, can be particularly delicate and vulnerable to breakage. From tight hairstyles and frequent styling to excessive heat, everyday hair-care habits can put unnecessary stress on this area.
Also see: Tips for maintaining healthy braids and protecting your hair
The good news is that a few simple changes can help you protect your edges and reduce avoidable damage.
Avoid hairstyles that are too tight
Tight braids, cornrows, ponytails, wigs, weaves and extensions can place repeated tension on the hairline. According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), hairstyles that continually pull on the scalp can cause traction alopecia, a form of hair loss that can become permanent if the tension continues.
If a hairstyle causes pain, headaches or discomfort, it may be too tight. The AAD recommends loosening the style or changing it altogether.
Give your edges a break
Avoid continuously wearing styles that place tension on the same areas. Switching between protective styles and looser hairstyles can give your hairline a chance to recover.
If you wear extensions or weaves, the AAD recommends taking breaks between styles and keeping your natural hair and scalp properly cared for.
Be gentle when styling
Your edges don’t need aggressive brushing or repeated manipulation to look neat. Use gentle movements when brushing or combing, and avoid tugging at the hairline.
The AAD recommends minimising brushing and handling hair gently to reduce breakage.
Be careful with heat
Frequent use of hot combs, flat irons and blow dryers can weaken hair. The AAD recommends limiting heat styling and using lower temperatures when heat is necessary.
This is particularly important when styling your edges, as repeated heat can contribute to dryness and breakage.
Also see: Mistakes that could be preventing your natural hair from growing
Keep your hair moisturised
Dry, fragile hair is more susceptible to breakage. Use a conditioner suited to your hair type and consider a moisturising or leave-in product when appropriate.
The AAD recommends conditioning after washing because conditioner helps moisturise and detangle hair, making it easier to manage.
For edges specifically, the AAD recommends using water-based styling gels and moisturising with conditioner, while avoiding heated styling tools as much as possible.
Don’t overdo edge control
Slicked-back styles can look great, but constantly manipulating your edges to achieve a perfectly smooth finish can put additional stress on fragile hairs. Give your hairline regular breaks from heavy styling products and repeated brushing.
Pay attention to signs of hair loss
If you notice persistent thinning, a receding hairline, bald patches, scalp pain or increased shedding, don’t assume it is simply from styling.
Cleveland Clinic notes that hair loss can have many causes, including tight hairstyles, nutritional deficiencies, hormonal changes and certain medical conditions. If you’re concerned about ongoing hair loss, consider speaking to a dermatologist or healthcare professional.
Healthy edges start with gentle care
Protecting your edges isn’t about finding a miracle product. It’s about reducing unnecessary tension, limiting damaging heat and chemical treatments, keeping your hair conditioned and giving your hairline time to rest.
When it comes to healthy edges, less pulling, less heat and gentler styling can go a long way.
Also see: Smart ways to protect natural hair from winter breakage
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