Have you seen your edges lately?

Missing edges seems to be a growing epidemic amongst black women. In our last post - Braid Care 101 we talked about edges and which products to use to help regrow them. In this post, we'll talk about 6 ways to help protect your sensitive hairline. 

Let's get started...

A receding hairline is a huge fear for many black women. - which is understandable. Many hair trends have come and gone, but the disappearing act edges tend to do - still remain.

Traction Alopecia is a condition where the loss of hair occurs. This particular form of Alopecia is caused by the pulling of the hair aka "snatched edges".

Yes, having your edges snatched looks amazing, BUT you have to remember that the hairline is sensitive. All of that tugging and yanking can lead to some serious hair breakage. Constantly wearing weaves, braids, wigs etc. can damage your edges as well. 

Are your edges on vacation?

Tamar Braxton - The clear outline of where her edges are supposed to be, are still slightly visible. From what I know about Tamar she's always wearing wigs or weaves. Wig glue/adhesive tape is a prime contender for hair loss around the hairline. I will never understand why some women insist of gluing their wigs to their heads. Yes, it makes the hair easier to manage - it won't fall off or shift in public, but how in the world do they moisturize their own hair? 

Now, If for some reason you're having trouble growing the hair around your hairline I recommend -  Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen, Grow & Restore Hair Serum

Some men and women suffer from psoriasis, Seborrheic Dermatitis, Seborrhoeic Eczema, or any other type of scalp condition. Conditions like these tend to slow hair growth, especially Seborrheic Dermatitis (Dandruff). SD usually causes crusty patches to grow on the scalp (flaking, and scabbing) which congests the hair follicles making it almost impossible for the hair to grow. Getting the proper medication from your dermatologist maintaining your dandruff and washing your hair on a regular basis will help you retain length. Once the condition is under control you can start using serums similar to the one mentioned above to help your hair grow. 

FYI, you can still be Natural while using the medications your doctor prescribes.

6 ways to protect your hairline

1. Use a silk or satin pillow case instead of a silk scarf. 

Instead of tying a scarf tightly around your head, use pillow cases that are compatible with your hair. This will give your hairline a chance to breathe. You can find satin pillow cases in almost any beauty supply store. They usually cost around $3-$5.

You can also find them at - Target, Walmart, Amazon, Bed Bath and Beyond, and Macys. 


2. Avoid wearing bandanas, tight scarves, and elastic bands frequently.

Strain to the hairline is never a good thing. Objects that pull your hair back in a restricting way are not encouraged.

3. Redo the braids/twists around the edges weekly or bi-weekly

This is a bit time-consuming, but it's worth it in the long run. The harder you work to maintain your hair, the longer the style will last. 

4. Don't sleep in ponytails, buns, or any sort of updo.

As mentioned before, the constant pulling of the hair along your hairline is a no no - so let it go! Moving in your sleep may add unnecessary stress/strain to the hairline. Sleeping with your hair down and out of your face on your satin pillow is perfect. NEVER sleep on a cotton pillowcase with your braids down. By the time you wake up, your braids will be raggedy and you'll have a decent collection of lint in your hair. They take entirely too long to pick out...trust me. 

5. Apply natural oils / butters to your scalp two to five times a week. 

Any sort of natural hair product that specializes in moisturizing is fine. I love the Jane Carter Solutions Nourish and Shine, Karen Body Beautiful butter Love, and Karen Body Beautiful Secret Weapon Restorative Hair Treatment. 

6. Don't make the braids/twists too tight or small along the hairline.

It's always best to have the braids along the hairline looser than the rest of the hair - which is where tip #3 comes into play. Due to the looseness of the braid, redoing them is a necessity; because, the hairline is sensitive try to avoid as much strain as possible. 

Good luck on your hair journey! 

"We don't go natural, we return. Natural is where it began," - Unknown

Love, 

  - Sassy ' N ' New York 


Images: (dailymail,theybf,sistacurl)