Pretty Pointers: Perfect Ponytail

Ponytails are the most basic hairstyle, but they can be damaging to hair. Follow our steps for a smooth, flawless ponytail.

Step One: Clean Slate

The best way to get a sleek ponytail is to start with smooth, clean hair. If it's been a day since you washed your hair, try using a freshening spray or hair powder. These products will help dry up oil and make hair appear clean and smooth. You can also use hair products made for smoothing hair after washing. These will help ensure that your hair is straight and ready for action.

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Step Two: Brush It Off

Messy ponytails can be cute and fun to sport. They require the least amount of prep, you take your frizzy, curly or just normal hair and pull it back, without so much as a brush. Sleek ponytails are the most classic variation though and they require a good brushing-through. When hair is wet, if you just washed it, or dry brush through it several times. Getting out all the knots, tangles and other items that get in the way of smooth hair.

Step Three: A Gathering

This step is the most important, and sometimes has to be redone several times. Using your brush or your fingers, gather your hair back at the nape of your neck (or higher if that's your thing) and secure it with one hand. With your free hand Smooth out the hair on top and on the sides. If you find troublesome bumps, you might have to drop your hair in the back and try pulling it back again. Again, for a messier 'do you won't need to worry about bumps, those are part of the style.

Step Four: Pony Up

Lastly secure hair with a band. This is the part where you need to protect hair from breakage. NEVER, EVER use a rubber band! Normal rubber bands are not made for hair and will cause your hair to break as you try to pull it out. We HEART Goody's Ouchless hair elastics, they're thin and come in various sizes for different hair types and they don't cause breakage or pain! Some people use scrunchies ... we have to admit we banished these from our hair years ago, but whatever floats your boat! You can also have some fun and use a funky clip or even a scarf to decorate your ponytail.