You may want to add just a little bit of product like serum or gel to your hair as you pull it up. This can help tame flyaways and give you a smoother overall look.
Do not use a rubber band, as that will tangle your hair and could even break some strands. Always use a hair tie made for hair. You may need an extra thick one for a high ponytail. [6] X Research source Consider a fiber-wrapped elastic band for a tighter ponytail. [7] X Expert Source Christine GeorgeMaster Hair Stylist & Colorist Expert Interview. 10 January 2020. To look extra nice, take a small section of hair from the bottom of your ponytail and carefully wrap it around the elastic. Secure it with a bobby pin running along the bottom of the hair tie to completely disguise it. [8] X Research source
Use your eyebrows to gauge how much hair you should pull back. The section shouldn’t be wider than your eyebrows.
Move a couple inches down from your main ponytail holder, and add in another holder, winding it back and forth until it’s tight. [20] X Research source Pull the hair a little bit in that section to poof it out. Move on to the next holder, adding it in like the last one but moving a few inches down. [21] X Research source Finally, put the last holder in. You can also wear a headband with this look. [22] X Research source
You can also add in waves after you’ve put your hair up. Be careful not to curl your hair too often, as styling with heat can cause damage to your hair. [24] X Expert Source Christine GeorgeMaster Hair Stylist & Colorist Expert Interview. 10 January 2020.
Another way to get a softer look is to do a messy ponytail. Don’t add products like serum or hairspray, and don’t secure the ponytail too tight. This gives the style a more casual feel.
