A high ponytail is a classic and versatile hairstyle that works for various occasions, from casual outings to formal events. It’s sleek, chic, and can be styled in many different ways to suit your preferences. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to create the perfect high ponytail with long hair.
How to Do a High Ponytail with Long Hair?
1. Gather Your Tools
Before starting, gather all the necessary tools and products. You will need:
A brush or comb
A fine-tooth comb
Elastic hair ties
Bobby pins
Hair gel or pomade
Hairspray
Hair serum or oil (optional)
Hair extensions (optional)
2. Prepare Your Hair
Start with clean, dry hair. You can straighten or curl your hair beforehand, depending on the look you want to achieve. If you prefer a sleek ponytail, straight hair works best. For a voluminous, textured ponytail, consider curling your hair.
Washing and Drying
Wash your hair with a volumizing shampoo and conditioner to add body and lift. Towel-dry your hair gently to remove excess moisture. Apply a heat protectant spray before blow-drying your hair. Use a round brush to lift the roots and create volume while blow-drying.
3. Brush Your Hair
Brush your hair thoroughly to remove any tangles and knots. A paddle brush or a wide-tooth comb works well for this. Ensure your hair is smooth and free of any snags. This step is crucial for achieving a polished look.
SEE ALSO: How to Do a Bun with Shoulder Length Hair?
4. Create Volume at the Crown
To give your high ponytail a voluminous look, backcomb or tease the hair at the crown. Use a fine-tooth comb to gently backcomb small sections of hair near the roots. Hold the section of hair upright and comb downward toward the scalp to create volume. Be careful not to overdo it, as too much teasing can damage your hair.
5. Smooth the Top Layer
After backcombing, gently smooth the top layer of your hair with a brush or comb. This will help to conceal the teased sections and create a sleek, polished appearance. Be careful not to flatten the volume you’ve created.
6. Gather Your Hair
Gather all your hair into a high ponytail at the crown of your head. Use your fingers or a brush to smooth out any bumps or flyaways. Hold the ponytail in place with one hand.
7. Secure with an Elastic
Secure your high ponytail with a strong elastic hair tie. Make sure the ponytail is tight and secure. For added security, use a bungee cord or a hair tie with hooks. This will help to keep your ponytail in place all day.
8. Hide the Elastic
To hide the elastic, take a small section of hair from the ponytail and wrap it around the base. Secure the end with a bobby pin, tucking it under the ponytail. This adds a polished and professional touch to your high ponytail.
9. Add Hair Extensions (Optional)
If you want to add extra length or volume to your ponytail, consider using hair extensions. Clip-in ponytail extensions are easy to use and can be seamlessly blended with your natural hair. Attach the extensions to the base of your ponytail and blend them with your natural hair.
10. Smooth and Tame Flyaways
Apply a small amount of hair gel or pomade to your hands and smooth down any flyaways or baby hairs around your hairline. Use a fine-tooth comb or a toothbrush to tame stubborn flyaways for a sleek finish.
11. Final Touches
Once your high ponytail is secure and smooth, apply a light mist of hairspray to hold the style in place. For added shine, apply a small amount of hair serum or oil to the lengths of your ponytail. This will give your hair a healthy, glossy finish.
12. Variations of the High Ponytail
There are several ways to customize your high ponytail to suit your personal style and the occasion. Here are a few variations:
Sleek High Ponytail
For a sleek and polished look, straighten your hair before creating the ponytail. Use a flat iron to achieve a smooth, glossy finish. Apply a shine serum to add extra gloss.
Voluminous High Ponytail
For a more voluminous and textured look, curl your hair with a curling iron or wand before gathering it into a ponytail. Use a texturizing spray or powder to add volume and hold. Loosen a few strands around your face for a softer appearance.
Braided High Ponytail
Incorporate a braid into your high ponytail for an elegant and intricate style. You can braid a section of hair from the front or side of your head and incorporate it into the ponytail. Alternatively, create a braid with the ponytail itself for a unique look.
High Ponytail with Accessories
Add hair accessories to elevate your high ponytail. Use a decorative hair tie, ribbon, or scrunchie to secure your ponytail. You can also add hair clips, pins, or a headband to enhance the style.
13. Tips for Maintaining Your High Ponytail
To keep your high ponytail looking fresh and polished throughout the day, follow these tips:
Use a strong-hold hairspray to keep your ponytail in place.
Carry a small brush or comb with you to smooth out any bumps or flyaways.
Avoid touching your hair too much to prevent frizz and flyaways.
If your ponytail starts to sag, remove the elastic and redo the ponytail to tighten it.
14. High Ponytail for Different Hair Types
High ponytails can be adapted to suit different hair types, including straight, wavy, curly, and textured hair. Here are some tips for styling a high ponytail for various hair types:
Straight Hair
Straight hair is ideal for a sleek and polished high ponytail. Use a flat iron to straighten your hair and apply a smoothing serum to eliminate frizz. Secure your ponytail with a strong elastic and smooth down any flyaways with gel or pomade.
Wavy Hair
Wavy hair adds natural texture and volume to a high ponytail. Enhance your waves with a texturizing spray or mousse before gathering your hair into a ponytail. For a more defined look, use a curling iron to create loose waves.
Curly Hair
Curly hair can create a voluminous and bouncy high ponytail. Define your curls with a curl-enhancing product and gather your hair into a high ponytail. Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to smooth out the top layer without disrupting your curls.
Textured Hair
Textured hair, including natural and coily hair, can create a stunning high ponytail with volume and definition. Use a leave-in conditioner or curl cream to define your texture. Secure your ponytail with a strong elastic and smooth down the edges with gel or pomade.
15. High Ponytail for Different Occasions
A high ponytail is versatile and can be styled for various occasions. Here are some ideas for how to wear a high ponytail for different events:
Casual Outings
For a casual look, opt for a messy and effortless high ponytail. Allow a few strands to fall naturally around your face. Use a texturizing spray to add volume and texture.
Work or School
A sleek and polished high ponytail is perfect for a professional or academic setting. Smooth down any flyaways and secure your ponytail with a neat elastic. Add a touch of shine serum for a glossy finish.
Formal Events
For formal events, such as weddings or parties, consider adding curls or waves to your high ponytail for an elegant touch. Incorporate braids or hair accessories to enhance the style.
16. Common Mistakes to Avoid
When creating a high ponytail, there are a few common mistakes to avoid to ensure a flawless look:
Using the Wrong Elastic
Avoid using thin or weak elastics that can break or slip. Use a strong, thick elastic to secure your ponytail.
Not Smoothing the Hair
Failing to smooth the hair before securing the ponytail can result in bumps and unevenness. Take the time to brush and smooth your hair for a sleek finish.
Over-Teasing
While teasing can add volume, over-teasing can damage your hair and create a messy look. Tease your hair gently and only in the areas where volume is needed.
Ignoring Flyaways
Flyaways can detract from the polished look of a high ponytail. Use gel, pomade, or hairspray to tame flyaways and create a smooth appearance.
17. Maintaining Healthy Hair
To ensure your hair remains healthy and strong while frequently wearing high ponytails, follow these tips:
Avoid Tight Ponytails
Tight ponytails can cause tension and breakage. Opt for a looser ponytail to reduce stress on your hair.
Use Gentle Elastics
Choose elastics that are gentle on your hair, such as fabric-covered or spiral hair ties. Avoid elastics with metal parts that can snag and damage your hair.
Take Breaks
Give your hair a break from ponytails to prevent stress and breakage. Wear your hair down or in different styles to allow your hair to rest.
Nourish Your Hair
Use nourishing hair products, such as deep conditioners and hair masks, to keep your hair healthy and hydrated. Regular trims can also help to prevent split ends and breakage.
Conclusion
A high ponytail is a versatile and stylish hairstyle that can be adapted for various occasions and hair types. By following these steps and tips, you can create a perfect high ponytail with long hair. Remember to gather the necessary tools, prepare your hair, create volume, secure your ponytail, and customize it to suit your style. With a little practice, you’ll be able to achieve a polished and professional high ponytail that will turn heads wherever you go.