Ponytail hairstyles are known to be practical, but they can also be sexy. Sweeping strands away from the face but letting lengths hang free gives a youthful yet polished effect. The style is easily adaptable for black hair, shorter, hair, or fine hair. If you’re looking for a modern take on the updo, look no further.

Recommended Video Everyone loves ponytails. They are quick, easy and convenient to wear. However, getting into a ponytail rut can be disappointing. First of all, you may find you look too plain and show no creativity. But what is even worse, ponytails can potentially damage your hair. Let’s see how you can minimize the stress of the old, good ponytail. Check these do’s and don’ts.

Don’ts

• Too tight ponytails. They do cause breakage because of the tension and may cause headaches.
• A thin hair tie. It just won’t hold your hair or leave a line of demarcation if it’s too tight.
• A loose scrunchie that you’ll tighten every now and then. When you do so, you rub the scrunchie against the cuticles of your hair weakening the hair shafts.
• A ponytail for sleep. This isn’t such a good idea as it may seem. A tighter pony is too stressful, and a loose one makes no sense when you are in bed. It’s better to braid your hair overnight if you want to gather it.

Do’s

• A satin scrunchie or a thick no-metal band. These are hair-friendly, and with good reason.
• If you wear ponytails often, switch their positions – high, low, side – to avoid the tension and stress at the same place which can lead to damage and split ends.
• Alternate ponytails with other hairstyles, like buns, French twists, and braids to prevent breakage.
• If you love ponytails, still try to give your hair and scalp some rest from them.

Long-Lasting High Ponytail

Women whose hair is long and thick often complain that a high ponytail gets saggy and doesn’t last. If this is your problem too, a way out is to make two ponytails that look like one. Simply divide your hair into two sections, like you’d do for a half updo. Make a ponytail from the lower half first. Next, tease the top section and pull it back to cover the lower ponytail. Secure the two ponytails together with another band. Optionally separate the top ponytail in two halves, lift the top one and add a small clip to the base for added volume. Cover with the top half to hide the small clip. Add a hair wrap.