Short hair can be just as versatile as long hair when it comes to styling, and tying it into a ponytail is a great option. However, it may seem challenging at first. With the right techniques and a bit of practice, you can achieve an adorable ponytail with your short hair. In this article, we will explore several methods to help you tie short hair into a ponytail successfully.
Gathering the Hair
Brushing and Preparing
Before you start tying your short hair into a ponytail, make sure your hair is clean and well – brushed.
Use a soft – bristled brush to remove any tangles gently. This step is crucial as it ensures that your hair lies smoothly when you gather it. If your hair is curly or wavy, you can use a small amount of leave – in conditioner or styling cream to tame frizz and make the hair more manageable.
Sectioning the Hair
Divide your short hair into sections. For very short hair, you may only have one or two sections. If your hair is a bit longer on the top or sides, separate these areas. This helps in creating a more structured ponytail. For example, if you have bangs or shorter layers in the front, you can clip them aside for now.
Choosing the Right Tools
Elastic Bands
Select an appropriate elastic band. For short hair, a thin elastic band is usually better as it won’t be too bulky. You can also choose an elastic band with some grip or texture to hold the hair firmly in place. There are various types available in the market, such as those made of fabric or rubber with different widths. Avoid using very thick elastic bands as they may not be able to hold the short hair tightly and can cause discomfort.
Bobby Pins and Hair Clips
Bobby pins and hair clips are essential for securing any loose strands. If you have some shorter hairs that won’t stay in the ponytail with just the elastic band, bobby pins can be used to tuck them in.
Hair clips can also be used to hold sections of hair in place while you are working on tying the ponytail.
Different Methods of Tying a Ponytail for Short Hair
The Low Ponytail
Gather the Hair at the Back: Start by gathering all of your short hair at the nape of your neck. Use your fingers to comb through the hair towards the back. Make sure that the hair is as smooth as possible.
Secure with an Elastic Band: Once you have all the hair in place, take your chosen elastic band and wrap it around the hair tightly. You may need to double – loop the elastic if your hair is thick or slippery. Adjust the tightness of the ponytail according to your preference. If there are any loose strands around the elastic, use bobby pins to pin them down.
Fluff and Style: After securing the low ponytail, you can gently fluff it by pulling on the hair slightly to give it a more voluminous look. You can also tuck any remaining short hairs behind your ears or use bobby pins to hold them in place.
The High Ponytail
Lift the Hair Up: Using your hands, lift the short hair up towards the crown of your head. You may need to use a comb to smooth the hair as you lift it. Make sure that the hair is gathered evenly from all sides.
Tie with an Elastic: Wrap the elastic band around the hair at the desired height. Again, you may need to use a double – loop method for better hold. Check that the ponytail is straight and centered on your head.
Hide the Elastic: If you want a more polished look, you can take a small section of hair from the ponytail and wrap it around the elastic band to hide it. Secure the end of this section with a bobby pin. You can also use hairspray to set the high ponytail in place and add some shine.
The Side Ponytail
Decide on the Side: Choose which side you want your ponytail to be on. Tilt your head slightly to the opposite side to make it easier to gather the hair.
Gather the Hair: Use your fingers to comb the short hair towards the chosen side. Make sure to gather all the hair smoothly. You can start from the front of your hairline on that side and work your way back.
Secure with an Elastic: Once the hair is gathered, tie it with an elastic band. The side ponytail can be positioned higher or lower depending on your preference. You can add some volume to the ponytail by gently pulling on the hair at the base.
Finish by using bobby pins to secure any loose strands.
Tips for Maintaining the Ponytail
Using Hairspray
To keep your short – haired ponytail in place throughout the day, a light spritz of hairspray can be very helpful. Hold the hairspray about 6 – 8 inches away from your hair and spray evenly. This will help to tame any flyaways and keep the shape of the ponytail intact.
Adjusting During the Day
Check your ponytail from time to time during the day. If any strands come loose, use bobby pins to fix them. You may also need to tighten the elastic band if it has loosened.
Nighttime Care
When you take your ponytail out at night, be gentle to avoid pulling or breaking your hair. You can use a wide – toothed comb to detangle your hair before going to bed. If you wore a high – tension ponytail during the day, it’s a good idea to give your scalp a gentle massage to promote blood circulation.
Conclusion
Tying short hair into a ponytail is not as difficult as it may seem. By following these steps, choosing the right tools, and using the appropriate techniques, you can create a stylish and functional ponytail for your short hair. Experiment with different styles and positions to find the one that suits you best. With a little practice, you’ll be able to achieve a great – looking ponytail every time.