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After hours in the salon chair, you know you're nearing the finish line when your stylist reaches for the edge control. They become an artist, swirling baby hairs cursively along your hairline with the precision of a fine brush—the detail that takes a braided or slicked-back style from simple to next level. But a weak edge control formula can make or break this step, causing flaking, a midday meltdown, or worse, drying out your edges. “The edges are the most fragile part of the hair,” says licensed cosmetologist Cataanda James. “This area is more susceptible to product buildup, which can lead to thinning and breakage if you’re not careful.”