Edge Control 101: To Makeup or Not to Makeup, That is the Question

When it comes to achieving a flawless makeup look, there are many elements to consider – from finding the perfect foundation shade to mastering the art of contouring. However, one aspect that often gets overlooked is the state of your edges. Should you do them before or after applying your makeup? It’s a question that has sparked much debate in the beauty community. In this article, we’ll delve into this long-standing dilemma and provide you with insights and tips to help you decide which approach works best for you. So, grab your makeup bag and get ready to discover the answer to the ages-old question – should I do my edges before or after makeup?

When it comes to doing our makeup, we often focus on the steps we need to take for a flawless finish. But what about our edges? Our hairline is an important aspect of our overall appearance and it can make or break a makeup look. This begs the question – should I do my edges before or after makeup? The answer to this question depends on several factors, including personal preference and individual hair type. In this article, we will explore the advantages and disadvantages of doing your edges before or after applying makeup, so you can determine which option works best for you.

The Importance of Edges

Before diving into whether to do your edges before or after makeup, let’s first understand the importance of our edges in everyday styling. Our hairline is also known as our “edges” and it refers to the fine hairs that frame our face. These hairs are usually more delicate and prone to damage compared to the rest of our hair. They play a vital role in enhancing our facial features and overall appearance.

When done correctly, laying down your edges can elevate any hairstyle and provide a polished look. Whether you choose a sleek ponytail or voluminous curls, well-groomed edges can make all the difference. That’s why taking care of your edges should be an essential part of your beauty routine.

The Benefits of Doing Edges Before Makeup

One of the main benefits of doing your edges before applying makeup is that it gives you full control over how you style them. By starting with your bare face, you have more flexibility and fewer restrictions when working on your hairline. Additionally, if you use any products on your edges such as edge control gel or wax, it won’t interfere with your makeup application.

Conversely, if you have naturally oily skin or tend to perspire easily, doing your edges before makeup can be a lifesaver. Since oil and sweat can cause your edges to lift or curl, starting with a clean face helps to keep your edges in place for longer. It also gives you the opportunity to clean up any product residue that may have transferred onto your face during the edge styling process.

The Drawbacks of Doing Edges Before Makeup

While doing your edges before makeup may seem like the obvious choice, it also has its downsides. One major drawback is the possibility of getting makeup on your styled edges. This could ruin the overall look of your hairline and require you to redo it.

Moreover, if you use any products with a sticky consistency, it can be difficult to apply makeup over them. For instance, some edge control gels have an adhesive formula that makes it challenging to blend foundation or concealer smoothly around the edge line. This could result in patchy or uneven coverage.

The Advantages of Doing Edges After Makeup

There are many advantages to doing your edges after applying makeup as well. To start, having a completed makeup look can give you a better idea of how much product to use on your edges. This ensures they don’t look too overdone or unnatural against a bare face.

Moreover, doing edges after makeup allows you to create a more precise and defined hairline by using concealer or foundation around the edge line. This technique is especially useful if you struggle with thinning hair or hair loss along your hairline as it gives the illusion of fuller and more defined edges.

The Disadvantages of Doing Edges After Makeup

One major drawback of doing edges after applying makeup is that any mistakes can be difficult to correct without ruining your makeup look underneath. It requires extra care and precision when styling your edges not to mess up any part of your finished makeup look.

Additionally, if you use any products with a wet consistency on your edges, it may cause your makeup to smudge or run. This could be an issue if you’re planning on wearing your finished makeup look for an extended period. In this case, it might be better to switch up the order and do your edges before makeup.

In conclusion, there is no right or wrong answer when it comes to doing your edges before or after applying makeup. It all comes down to personal preference and the products you use on both your face and hairline. Experiment with both methods and see which one works best for you. Keep in mind that practice makes perfect when it comes to laying down your edges, so don’t give up if you don’t get it right on the first try. With time and patience, you’ll find the perfect routine that works for you.

Understanding the Importance of Edges in Makeup

When it comes to makeup application, many people focus solely on their face and neglect other areas such as their hairline or edges. However, edges play a crucial role in achieving a flawless and polished makeup look. They refer to the baby hairs and shorter strands that frame the face and can make or break your overall look.

Having well-groomed edges can enhance your makeup by creating a clean and sharp finish. On the other hand, poorly done edges can make your makeup appear messy and unfinished. Therefore, understanding the importance of edges in makeup is crucial for achieving a flawless look.

Step-by-Step Guide: Doing Your Edges Before Makeup

While there are different opinions on when to do your edges in relation to makeup application, many professional makeup artists recommend doing your edges before applying any makeup products. This is because it allows you to create a clean canvas for your face makeup and prevents any product from getting on your edges.

To do your edges before makeup, follow these simple steps:

1. Start with clean, dry hair: It is important to have a clean canvas for doing your edges. Make sure to shampoo and condition your hair beforehand, so that your edges are free from any product buildup.

2. Apply edge control or gel: Using an edge control product or gel is essential for creating sleek and smooth edges. Choose a product that works best for your hair type and apply it evenly along your hairline, focusing on the baby hairs and shorter strands.

3. Use a brush or toothbrush: Taking a small brush or toothbrush, gently brush down your edges towards your face to create sleekness and hold them in place.

4. Use edge clips if necessary: If you have thicker hair or stubborn baby hairs, you can use edge clips to help hold them in place while the product dries.

5. Allow the product to dry: It is important to let the product dry completely before moving on to your makeup application. This will ensure that your edges stay in place and don’t get disturbed by any makeup products.

Step-by-Step Guide: Doing Your Edges After Makeup

While doing your edges before makeup is the preferred method, some people find it more convenient to do their edges after they have completed their face makeup. If this is your preferred method, here are the steps you can follow:

1. Choose a suitable edge product: As mentioned earlier, using an edge control or gel is crucial for creating sleek edges. Make sure to choose a product that works well with your hair type and provides enough hold.

2. Apply a small amount of product: Take a small amount of edge control or gel on your fingertips and apply it gently along your hairline, focusing on the baby hairs and shorter strands.

3. Use a brush or toothbrush: Take a small brush or toothbrush and gently brush down your edges towards your face. This will help smooth them out and create a clean finish.

4. Clean up any excess product: Use a q-tip or makeup wipe to clean up any excess product that may have gotten onto your face during the process.

5. Use a scarf/bandana for hold: To ensure that your edges stay in place while you finish the rest of your makeup, you can tie a scarf or bandana around your head lightly, holding down the edges until they dry completely.

The Debate: Which Method Is Better?

The question of whether you should do your edges before or after makeup is often debated among beauty enthusiasts. However, there isn’t necessarily a right answer as it ultimately depends on personal preference and hair type.

Those with thinner hair may find it easier to do their edges after makeup as there is less chance of disturbing them while applying products on the face. On the other hand, those with thicker or more stubborn edges may prefer doing them before makeup to make sure they are adequately laid down and dried before any product comes in contact with them.

Ultimately, it is up to you to decide which method works best for your hair type, and which fits into your makeup routine more seamlessly.

Tips for Perfectly Laid Edges

No matter which method you choose, there are some tips you can follow to ensure that your edges are beautifully laid and stay in place throughout the day:

1. Use a toothbrush: Using a toothbrush instead of a regular brush can help create sharper edges and is more precise for shorter baby hairs.

2. Don’t use too much product: Using too much edge control or gel can make your edges appear greasy or weighed down. Start with a small amount and build up if necessary.

3. Tie them down while drying: If you struggle with getting your edges to stay in place, you can try tying them down while they dry. This will help hold them in place until the product dries completely.

4. Don’t disturb them: Once you have finished doing your edges, avoid touching or brushing them until the product has fully dried.

Q: Should I do my edges before or after makeup?
A: It is recommended to do your edges before applying makeup to avoid any smudging or disruption of your edges.

Q: How do I prepare my edges before makeup?
A: Make sure your edges are clean and free of any product buildup. Use a brush with light strokes to lay down your edges flat.

Q: Do I need to use a specific product for my edges?
A: You can use any edge control product that works well with your hair type and texture. Make sure it is non-greasy and does not cause flaking.

Q: Can I touch up my edges after applying makeup?
A: Yes, you can touch up any areas that may have been disturbed during the makeup application. Use a small amount of edge control and precise brush or toothbrush to fix these areas.

Q: Are there any tips for keeping my edges in place while doing my makeup?
A: Yes, you can use a headband or scarf to cover your edges while doing your makeup. This will prevent them from getting disrupted by products or brushes.

Q: Is it important to protect my edges while wearing makeup regularly?
A: Yes, it is crucial to protect your edges from frequent manipulation and styling. Use edge-friendly hairstyles and products, and try to avoid excessive heat and tension on the hairline.

In conclusion, the decision to either do your edges before or after makeup is a personal preference that can be influenced by various factors. However, there are some important things to keep in mind when considering this question.

Firstly, it is important to take into account the state of your edges. If your edges are already laid and smooth, it may be best to do them before applying makeup. This will help avoid messing up the edges while putting on foundation or other products.

On the other hand, if your edges need some extra attention and styling, it may be better to do them after makeup. This way, you can ensure that your makeup will not interfere with the process of laying your edges and creating a sleek look.

Another factor to consider is the type of makeup products being used. If you are using oil-based products on your face, it may be best to do your edges after makeup. Oil-based products can cause build-up and weigh down the hair, making it difficult to achieve a clean edge.

Additionally, it is important to prioritize the health and maintenance of your hair when making this decision. Constantly pulling and styling your hair can lead to breakage and damage over time. Therefore, it is crucial to give your edges a break from manipulation whenever possible.

Ultimately,