What you should know when choosing non-toxic edge control on Welpr:

  • Only the cleanest products make it onto Welpr.
  • We use a score called the Welpr Rating to rank each product.
  • The Welpr Rating is based on math, not opinion, ensuring it's free from human bias.
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The Welpr Rating is determined by a scoring formula. The formula takes into account the products safety, user satisfaction, and eco-ethical standing. Click here to learn more.
Our Methodology and Ratings

Find Non-Toxic Edge Control

Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.

Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.

User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.

Laid Edge Control - Essations

Laid Edge Control - Essations
Welpr Rating
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Welpr rating icon
4.9
/5
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Certifications

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<p>Products rated EWG-1 indicate a top choice for personal care products, have a low potential hazard rating, and good or robust ingredient transparency. EWG ratings may change. Check the source for most up to date rating. <a href="https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/products/889939-Naked_Laid_Edge_Control_2019_formulation/" target="_blank">Source</a>.</p>
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User Satisfaction

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We only include products on Welpr that are the best of the best. An EXCELLENT user satisfaction score indicates the product is in the top third of the best products.
Est. Price
$15.45

Product Details

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  • Easy to use
  • Manufactured in the United States
  • Designed for all hair types

Pros & Cons

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Pros Mentioned

  • Non-greasy
  • Non-flaky
  • Long-lasting

Cons Mentioned

  • Inconsistent

Ingredients

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Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.


To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.


Ingredients: Aqua (Water), Ceteareth-25, Peg-7 Glyceryl Monococoate (Glyceryl Cocoate), Propylene Glycol, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Almond Oil), Honey

Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.

Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.

User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.

Repairing Edge Control - Flawless By Gabrielle Union

Repairing Edge Control - Flawless By Gabrielle Union
Welpr Rating
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Welpr rating icon
4.6
/5
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on Amazon

Certifications

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<p>Products rated EWG-4 feature a moderate potential hazard rating and fair ingredient transparency. EWG ratings may change. Check the source for most up to date rating. <a href="https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/products/999303-Flawless_by_Gabrielle_Union_Repairing_Edge_Control/" target="_blank">Source</a>.</p>
<p>The Leaping Bunny certification assures that products are genuinely cruelty-free, verified through rigorous audits and a comprehensive Supplier Monitoring System.</p>
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User Satisfaction

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We only include products on Welpr that are the best of the best. An EXCELLENT user satisfaction score indicates the product is in the top third of the best products.
Est. Price
$8.99

Product Details

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  • Provides a long-lasting hold without flaking or build-up.
  • Infused with biotin and passionfruit seed oil to deliver shine.
  • Helps rebuild thinning edges.
  • Great for natural, color treated, or relaxed hair.
  • Smooths flyaways and holds hair in place without the crunch.
  • Free of sulfates, parabens, and silicones, which can cause dehydration and breakage.

Pros & Cons

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Pros Mentioned

  • Soothing
  • Moisturizing
  • Nourishing

Cons Mentioned

  • Greasy

Ingredients

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Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.


To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.


Ingredients: Water (Aqua, Au), Ceteareth-25, Glycerin, Peg-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, Peg-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Diheptyl Succinate, Capryloyl Glycerin/ Sebacic Acid Copolymer, Fragrance (Parfum), Biotin, Mauritia Flexuosa Fruit Oil, Passiflora Edulis Seed Oil, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Oil, Euterpe Oleracea Fruit Oil, Creatine, Pvp, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Benzyl Benzoate, Hexyl Cinnamal, Hydroxycitronellol, Limonene, Linalool

Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.

Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.

User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.

Swag Goo Edge Control - The Doux

Swag Goo Edge Control - The Doux
Welpr Rating
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Welpr rating icon
4.6
/5
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on Amazon

Certifications

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<p>Products rated EWG-4 feature a moderate potential hazard rating and fair ingredient transparency. EWG ratings may change. Check the source for most up to date rating. <a href="https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/products/1014923-The_Doux_Swag_Goo_Edge_Control_Gel/" target="_blank">Source</a>.</p>

Highlights

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<p>The Cruelty-Free label indicates that a product says their product is free from animal testing, but without certifications such as PETAs Beauty Without Bunnies or Leaping Bunny, it cannot be verified.</p>

User Satisfaction

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We only include products on Welpr that are the best of the best. An EXCELLENT user satisfaction score indicates the product is in the top third of the best products.
Est. Price
$16.69

Product Details

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  • Contains aloe
  • Enriched with Vitamin E
  • Includes coconut oil
  • Formulated with castor oil

Pros & Cons

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Pros Mentioned

  • Hydrating
  • Great-smelling
  • Versatile

Cons Mentioned

  • Flaky

Ingredients

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Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.


To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.


Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Ceteareth-25, PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, Propylene Glycol, PEG-7 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Phenoxyethanol, Benzoic Acid, Ethylhexylglycerin, Glycereth-2 Cocoate, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Tocopheryl Acetate, Panthenol, Silk Amino Acid, Disodium EDTA, Fragrance (Parfum)

Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.

Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.

User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.

Long and Luxe Groedge Edge Controller - As I Am

Long and Luxe Groedge Edge Controller - As I Am
Welpr Rating
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Welpr rating icon
4.6
/5
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on Amazon

Certifications

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<p>Products rated EWG-5 feature a moderate potential hazard rating and fair ingredient transparency. EWG ratings may change. Check the source for most up to date rating. <a href="https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/products/954130-As_I_am_Long__Luxe_GroEdges_Edge_Controller/" target="_blank">Source</a>.</p>

Highlights

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<p>The Cruelty-Free label indicates that a product says their product is free from animal testing, but without certifications such as PETAs Beauty Without Bunnies or Leaping Bunny, it cannot be verified.</p>
<p>The Made in USA label indicates that a product has substantial U.S. content and manufacturing.</p>

User Satisfaction

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We only include products on Welpr that are the best of the best. An EXCELLENT user satisfaction score indicates the product is in the top third of the best products.
Est. Price
$7.99

Product Details

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  • Provides long-lasting hold for edges without flaking.
  • Rejuvenates and strengthens the hairline to promote healthier hair growth.
  • Enriched with pomegranate, passion fruit, phytosterols, aloe vera, pomegranate juice, hydrolyzed lupine protein, and saw palmetto.
  • Free from gluten, parabens, phthalates, petrolatum, mineral oil, DEA, lye, lauryl sulfates, and animal testing.
  • Part of the Long & Luxe Collection, which includes 8 products designed for growing longer and stronger hair.
  • Founded by Dr. Ali N Syed, a pioneer with 45 patents in the textured hair industry.
  • Products are developed and crafted in the USA at the As I Am specialized haircare laboratory.
  • Commitment to environmental sustainability by using decomposable materials to minimize ecological footprint.
  • Formulas designed to retain moisture without compromising the natural balance of hair and scalp.

Pros & Cons

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Pros Mentioned

  • Moisturizing
  • Non-greasy
  • Fragrant

Cons Mentioned

  • Sticky

Ingredients

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Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.


To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.


Ingredients: Aqua/Water/Eau, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Ceteareth-25, Glycerin, PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Punica Granatum Fruit Juice, Maltodextrin, Acacia Senegal Gum, Passiflora Edulis Fruit Juice, Hydrolyzed Lupine Protein, Niacinamide, Caffeine, Biotin, Trifolium Pratense (Clover) Flower Extract, Equisetum Arvense Extract, Urtica Dioica (Nettle) Extract, Cola Acuminata Seed Extract, Keratin, Hydrolyzed Keratin, Piroctone Olamine, Fragrance/Parfum, Caprylyl Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Benzoate, Silica, Beta Vulgaris (Beet) Root Extract, Citric Acid, Red 33/C I17200, Benzyl Benzoate, Citral, Limonene, Linalool

Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.

Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.

User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.

Extra Strength Shea & Olive Oil Edge Control - Silk Elements

Extra Strength Shea & Olive Oil Edge Control - Silk Elements
Welpr Rating
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Welpr rating icon
4.55
/5
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on Amazon

Certifications

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<p>Products rated EWG-4 feature a moderate potential hazard rating and fair ingredient transparency. EWG ratings may change. Check the source for most up to date rating. <a href="https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/products/966138-Silk_Elements_Extra_Strength_Shea__Olive_Oil_Edge_Control/" target="_blank">Source</a>.</p>
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User Satisfaction

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We only include products on Welpr that are the best of the best. An EXCELLENT user satisfaction score indicates the product is in the top third of the best products.
Est. Price
$5.99

Product Details

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  • Perfect for relaxed or natural hair
  • Sleeks edges
  • Extra hold

Pros & Cons

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Pros Mentioned

  • Hold
  • Moisturizing
  • Non-greasy

Cons Mentioned

  • Oily

Ingredients

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Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.


To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.


Ingredients: Water, Ceteareth-25, Peg-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, Propylene Glycol, Peg-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Peg-7 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Fragrance, Phenoxyethanol, Benzoic Acid, Ethylhexylglycerin, Glycereth-2 Cocoate, Panthenol, Hydrolyzed Silk, Vp/Va Copolymer, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Benzyl Salicylate, Geraniol, Limonene, Linalool

Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.

Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.

User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.

Sleek Max Edge Control - Design Essentials

Sleek Max Edge Control - Design Essentials
Welpr Rating
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Welpr rating icon
4.55
/5
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on Amazon

Certifications

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<p>Products rated EWG-3 feature a moderate potential hazard rating and fair ingredient transparency. EWG ratings may change. Check the source for most up to date rating. <a href="https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/products/1831474-design-essentials-sleek-edge-control/" target="_blank">Source</a>.</p>
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User Satisfaction

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We only include products on Welpr that are the best of the best. An EXCELLENT user satisfaction score indicates the product is in the top third of the best products.
Est. Price
$11.74

Product Details

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  • Provides touchable hold and adds intense shine
  • Adds texture to short styles
  • Provides two strengths of hold for all hair types
  • Works well on wet or dry hair

Pros & Cons

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Pros Mentioned

  • Powerful
  • Smoothing
  • Non-greasy

Cons Mentioned

  • Residue

Ingredients

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Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.


To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.


Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Ceteareth-25, Glycerin, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Methyl Gluceth-10, Phenoxyethanol (And) Caprylyl Glycol, Fragrance (Parfum), Palmitoyltripeptide (Peptide Solution), Amyl Cinnamal, Benzoyl Benzoate, Limonene

Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.

Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.

User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.

Edgewax - Murray's

Edgewax - Murray's
Welpr Rating
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Welpr rating icon
4.55
/5
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on Amazon

Certifications

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<p>Products rated EWG-4 feature a moderate potential hazard rating and fair ingredient transparency. EWG ratings may change. Check the source for most up to date rating. <a href="https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/products/923919-Murrays_Premium_Gel_2020_formulation/" target="_blank">Source</a>.</p>
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User Satisfaction

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We only include products on Welpr that are the best of the best. An EXCELLENT user satisfaction score indicates the product is in the top third of the best products.
Est. Price
$7.00

Product Details

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  • Combines premium gel with Australian beeswax for maximum hold
  • Provides a high shine finish with no flaking
  • Strong enough for demanding areas but soft enough for easy application

Pros & Cons

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Pros Mentioned

  • Smooth
  • Effective
  • Light

Cons Mentioned

  • Expensive

Ingredients

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Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.


To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.


Ingredients: Water (Aqua, Eau), Ceteareth-25, Peg-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, Beeswax (Cera Alba), Cyclopentasiloxane, Acrylates/Octylacrylamide Copolymer, Pvp, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Peg-12 Dimethicone, Peg-20 Hydrogenated Lanolin, Phenoxyethanol, Fragrance (Parfum), Aminomethyl Propanol, Caprylhydroxamic Acid, Methylpropanediol, Polysorbate 80, Benzyl Alcohol, Benzyl Salicylate, Hexyl Cinnamic Aldehyde, Lilial, Linalool, D-Limonene

Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.

Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.

User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.

Lightweight Curls + Flaxseed Edge Control - Maui Moisture

Lightweight Curls + Flaxseed Edge Control - Maui Moisture
Welpr Rating
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Welpr rating icon
4.5
/5
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on Amazon

Certifications

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<p>Products rated EWG-4 feature a moderate potential hazard rating and fair ingredient transparency. EWG ratings may change. Check the source for most up to date rating. <a href="https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/products/1033550-Maui_Moisture_Lightweight_Curls__Flaxseed_Edge_Control_Hair_Styling_Pomade_for_Frizz_Control/" target="_blank">Source</a>.</p>

Highlights

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<p>The Vegan label indicates that a brand says their product does not contain animal-derived ingredients, but without certifications such as Certified Vegan, it cannot be verified.</p>

User Satisfaction

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We only include products on Welpr that are the best of the best. A GREAT user satisfaction score indicates the product is in the middle third of the best products.
Est. Price
$7.97

Product Details

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  • Provides a strong hold for sculpting and managing hair edges and adds shine.
  • Infused with flaxseed, coconut water, and citrus oil for nourishing and protecting the hair.
  • Free from parabens, silicones, sulfated surfactants, synthetic dye, mineral oil, and gluten.
  • Does not contain drying alcohols, ensuring no damage to hair during styling.
  • Starts with 100% aloe vera as the base ingredient.

Pros & Cons

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Pros Mentioned

  • Lightweight
  • Versatile
  • Moisturizing

Cons Mentioned

  • Flaky

Ingredients

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Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.


To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.


Ingredients: Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Ceteareth-25, Peg-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, Water (Aqua), Glycerin, Peg-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Water, Linum Usitatissimum (Linseed) Seed Oil, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Oil, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Extract, Hydrogenated Coco-Glycerides, Propylene Glycol, Disodium Edta, Citric Acid, Sodium Benzoate, Fragrance (Parfum)

Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.

Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.

User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.

Artful Edges Edge Control Gel - Mizani

Artful Edges Edge Control Gel - Mizani
Welpr Rating
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Welpr rating icon
4.35
/5
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on Amazon

Certifications

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<p>Products rated EWG-5 feature a moderate potential hazard rating and fair ingredient transparency. EWG ratings may change. Check the source for most up to date rating. <a href="https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/products/9748446-Mizani_Edge_Control_Taming_Gel/" target="_blank">Source</a>.</p>
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User Satisfaction

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We only include products on Welpr that are the best of the best. A GOOD user satisfaction score indicates the product is in the bottom third of the best products.
Est. Price
$19.00

Product Details

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  • Provides strong hold for sleek hair styles
  • Flake-free and no buildup formula
  • Contains castor oil and shea butter
  • Suitable for all hair types

Pros & Cons

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Pros Mentioned

  • Effective
  • Scent
  • Non-flaky

Cons Mentioned

  • Pricey

Ingredients

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Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.


To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.


Ingredients: Aqua/Water, Ceteareth-25, PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, Glycerin, Propylene Glycol, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Parfum/Fragrance, Phenoxyethanol, Sorbic Acid, Argania Spinosa Oil/Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil, Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil/Sunflower Seed Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis Oil/Jojoba Seed Oil, Tocopheryl Acetate, Ethyl Hexylglycerin, Hexyl Cinnamal, Methylisothiazolinone, Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone, Coumarin, Linalool, Benzyl Alcohol, Citronellol, Geraniol, 2-Oleamido-1, 3-Octadecanediol, Limonene

Our Product Rating System

Our Product Rating System

First, Camille (co-creator of Welpr) hand picks cleaner product options from a variety of sources.

Next, we collect information about each product's safety, consumer satisfaction, and eco-ethical standing.

Finally, we run all this information through an algorithm that calculates the Welpr Rating.

Welpr Rating:

5.0/5

The Welpr Rating takes into account 3 things:

  1. Product Safety
  2. Consumer Satisfaction
  3. Ethics & Environment
Product safety

Part 1: Product safety

We evaluate safety information from 3rd party organizations (e.g. EWG, Made Safe, etc.). Instead of relying solely on any one of these companies for safety information, we assess all of them.

Consumer satisfaction

Part 2: Consumer satisfaction

We scour the web for consumer ratings and reviews to verify products are not only cleaner options, but also effective. Products can either be Above Average, Average, or Below average for their respective category (e.g. cleaning products).

Ethics & Environment

Part 3: Ethics & Environment

When you buy a product, you’re supporting that company with your dollars. We believe it’s important to support ethical companies, so we pool together certifications that verify a company's ethics and environmental impact.

Common Harmful Chemicals in Edge Control

Chemical Name

Why it’s harmful

Phthalate

Phthalates, linked to endocrine disruption, reproductive toxicity, and cancer, are banned in the European Union but remain prevalent in U.S. cosmetics. They are widely used in personal care products, such as nail polish, fragrances, and eyelash glue and other products. A significant loophole allows phthalates to be added to fragrances without disclosure. Health concerns include endocrine disruption, developmental and reproductive toxicity, and potential carcinogenicity.

Sodium Laureth Sulfate

Sodium laureth sulfate, derived from ethoxylated lauryl alcohol, is a surfactant used in sudsy products like toothpaste, detergents, and shampoos. While it acts as a cleansing and emulsifying agent, it can sometimes contain toxic impurities such as 1,4-dioxane. This chemical has raised health concerns due to its potential to cause skin, lung, and eye irritation, organ toxicity, and, primarily because of contamination by 1,4 dioxane, cancer.

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate is recognised as a skin, eye, and respiratory tract irritant according to ICSC. It may cause allergic reactions and eye irritation as stated by the HSDB. Exposure may even result in eye burns, as per CAMEO. Depending on its form - which may range from a solid (90-98% purity), to a paste (30-41%), or an aqueous solution (28-50%) - it can significantly irritate skin and eyes, with adverse effects escalating with increased concentration. Despite these hazards, it is not a skin sensitizer according to CHEMINFO, while eChemPortal: ERMA and MSDSonline endorse its classification as an irritant.

Triclosan

Triclosan is a synthetic pesticide with antibacterial properties commonly added to detergents, soaps, and various personal care products such as deodorants and toothpastes. Although it lacks the ability to combat viruses causing colds and flus, it's used in products like body washes, disinfectants, and some toothpastes to resist bacterial growth. In 2016, the FDA limited its use in antibacterial soaps, but the compound is still permitted in other products. The European Union prohibited its presence in food-contact items in 2010. Exposure to triclosan has been associated with hormone disruption, increased breast cancer risk, liver damage, and the development of resistant super-germs.

Sources: 
Benzene

Benzene is a colorless, sweet-smelling, highly flammable liquid that evaporates quickly into the air and slightly dissolves in water. It's a byproduct of both natural processes and human activities, used extensively in the U.S production of other chemicals for plastics, resins, nylon, rubbers, lubricants, dyes, detergents, drugs, and pesticides. Present in crude oil, gasoline, and cigarette smoke, benzene is also released into the air from burning coal, oil, gasoline stations, and vehicle exhaust. Short-term exposure may cause drowsiness, dizziness, and irritation, while long-term exposure leads to blood disorders, reproductive effects, and even leukemia. Benzene has been classified by EPA as a known human carcinogen, and regulations apply to various industry sectors with potentially high exposure risks.

Sources: 
Triethanolamine

Triethanolamine appears to cause occupational asthma and allergic contact dermatitis in machinists and photographers, as well as liver and kidney damage in animals with high-dose feeding. It's noted to be an irritant to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract, with potential to cause skin sensitization, though the rate of skin sensitization in humans is low. Triethanolamine has low acute toxicity, with median oral LD50 values of 4,190-11,260 mg/kg in rats and 5,300-8,000 mg/kg in guinea pigs, and a median dermal LD50 greater than 2,000 mg/kg in rabbits. Triethanolamine is not carcinogenic, developmental toxicant, or toxic to the reproductive system. However, chronic exposure may lead to liver and kidney damage.

Diethanolamine

Diethanolamine is a chemical found in various consumer products like shampoos, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. Acute exposure in humans can result in irritation of the nose, throat, and skin. However, no detailed data is available on its chronic, reproductive, developmental or carcinogenic effects on humans. Studies on animals reveal that acute oral exposure can influence the liver, blood, kidney, and central nervous system, while dermal exposure has been connected with an increased incidence of liver and kidney tumors in mice. Production of first-degree burns, skin irritation, occupational asthma, kidney, and liver injury risk, and potential skin sensitization are some other adverse effects associated with diethanolamine.

Phenoxyethanol

2-Phenoxyethanol is a hazardous substance toxic by all routes of exposure, and is used widely in products like cosmetics, soaps, and inks, among others. The effects of exposure to this faintly aromatic, colorless, oily liquid can include eye irritation, headaches, tremors, and CNS depression. It's crucial to rinse exposed eyes with tepid water for at least 15 minutes and to wash exposed skin thoroughly with soap and water in case of contact. The substance requires preheating before ignition can occur, and if involved in a fire, gentle water spray can extinguish the fire by inducing frothing.

Methylisothiazolinone

Methylisothiazolinone can reportedly cause allergic contact dermatitis in workers who interact with products containing it. This substance is recognized as a contact allergen for consumers using cosmetics that include it. It can cause skin burns and sensitization, and inhaling it may lead to corrosive injuries in the upper respiratory tract and lungs. Ingesting this substance is harmful, and inhalation is toxic. This preservative is linked to the category of isothiazolinones.

Sources: 
Isopropyl Alcohol

Isopropyl alcohol has been shown to cause narcosis in animals during acute studies, as cited by ACGIH. However, according to research by Zimmerman, it is not hepatotoxic in either experimental animal studies or in human exposures. It's known to be a skin, eye, and respiratory tract irritant, and if inhaled in high concentrations, it can cause CNS depression, as indicated by the ICSC.

Octinoxate

Octinoxate, commonly found in various cosmetic and personal care products such as hair color products, sunscreen, lipstick, and skin creams, is an endocrine disruptor that mimics estrogen and can affect thyroid function. It has been detected in human urine, blood, and breast milk, indicating systemic exposure. Octinoxate's potential health concerns include its impact on cell proliferation in response to estrogen exposure, disruptions in thyroid hormones, alterations in reproductive systems, and adverse effects on the development of male and female fetuses, as well as their offspring.

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About The Author

Camille May

Hey, I’m Camille, co-creator of Welpr and your clean living guide. After selling my last company in the health food space, I went non-toxic to heal an autoimmune condition. It did wonders for my health, but navigating which products to buy wasn’t easy. We created Welpr to make that journey feel a little bit easier. When I’m not working on Welpr, you can find me at the farmers market or unwinding in the sauna, always in bed at 9pm with a good book. I live in my hometown of Austin, TX with my pit bull, Romeo.