How to Use a Hair Tie: A Simple Guide for Beginners

Reliable, effortless, and the ultimate go-to for all our favorite hair looks: a trusty hair tie is every girl’s best friend.

Hair ties are a staple accessory for almost any up-do, but knowing how to use them correctly may not be as simple as you think. Do you know how to tie a hair tie so it doesn’t cause breakage? What about the best hair ties for your hair type and texture? Don’t worry, we’ve got all the answers you need.

Read on to learn how to use a hair tie properly — whether you’re a total beginner or a seasoned pro looking for more top tips.

The Basics of Using a Hair Tie, Hair Band, or Hair Elastic

To create an Insta-worthy pony with your favorite hair tie, you need the right grip, the right tension (not too much!), and the right hair tie for your texture. 

Learn how to use a hair tie with these easy-to-follow steps.

Step 1: Start With Your Hair Tie Around Your Wrist

If you’re wondering how to tie hair with a hair tie, start by putting one on the wrist of your dominant hand. This will make it easier to tie once your hair is gathered into a pony, and will give you better control as you begin looping.

Step 2: Gather Your Hair Into a Smooth Ponytail

Use both hands to pull your hair to the height that you prefer your ponytail to be. Make sure to grip the base of the ponytail fairly tightly, as this will help to keep its shape.

Step 3: Slide the Hair Tie From Your Wrist to Your Hand

But how to put hair bands in your hair? Move the tie from your wrist into the hand holding your ponytail. This keeps your ponytail secured while freeing your other hand to stretch the tie.

Step 4: Stretch the Hair Tie and Create the First Loop

Simply use your free hand to stretch the hair tie wide enough to pass over the ponytail. Pull it over the hair once and let it sit at the base. This first loop will anchor the ponytail in place.

Step 5: Twist the Hair Tie Into a Figure Eight Shape

Hold the base of your ponytail steady. With your other hand, twist the hair tie at the center to form a figure eight. This twist creates fresh tension for the next wrap.

Step 6: Pull the Second Loop Over the Ponytail

Stretch the new loop created by the twist and pull it over the ponytail. This tightens the hold and keeps the ponytail centered.

Step 7: Repeat the Twist and Loop if Needed

Repeat the twist and loop again. The thinner your hair, the more loops you will need to do to secure the hair tie.

Step 8: Adjust the Base for Comfort

Lift the ponytail gently to relieve tension at the scalp and smooth any bumps. A secure ponytail should feel snug but never painful.

And that’s it! Now you know how to tie a hair tie like an expert, there really is no stopping you.

Choosing the Right Hair Tie for Your Hair Type

When you find the right hair tie for your hair type, you can be sure your ponytail will stay looking picture-perfect without unnecessary pulling or tension. Whether your locks are short or long, straight or curly, there’s a TELETIES hair tie for you.

Need some more top tips on choosing the best hair tie for your hair type? Check out our post about the different types of hair ties and when to use each one.

Tiny Hair Ties for Kids or Thin, Fine Hair

TELETIES Tiny Hair Ties are perfect for kids or anyone with very fine hair.

These hair ties provide a secure yet gentle hold that keeps your style in place all day. Plus, their comfortable grip avoids unnecessary pulling, which makes them the perfect choice for your little one’s favorite hairstyles.

Small Hair Ties for Medium Density or Short to Mid Length Hair

Wondering how to choose and how to use hair bands if you have short to mid-length hair with medium density? Our small hair ties are the perfect accessory for any updo.

These stylish, practical hair ties provide a secure yet flexible hold and stay in place all day — without feeling too tight.

Large Hair Ties for Thick, Long, or Heavy Hair

Thick, long, or heavy hair? Look no further than our range of large hair ties.

These reliable accessories offer extra stretch and strength, making them a great go-to choice for thicker strands.

Hair Ties for Curly or Textured Hair

If you’ve got natural curls, opt for soft and flexible hair ties that will stretch without flattening your curl pattern.

Nylon hair ties are an excellent choice for curly or textured hair. These accessories expand easily, while also reducing unnecessary tension on your locks.

Learn more about the benefits of nylon hair ties for curly hair.

Hair Ties for Sports & High-Movement Activity

If you’re a sporty girl at heart and wondering how to tie your hair up for high movement activities, look no further than the TELETIES sports hair tie range.

These hair ties offer a strong grip you can rely on during sweaty practices and high-intensity workouts.

Want a Fuller Ponytail or a Softer Hold?

If you love a softer finish or are looking for a ponytail with extra volume, our fun and practical scrunchies are the way to go.

Scrunchies are one of our favorite hair tie alternatives. They’re super gentle on your hair, while adding all the lift and volume you need to create the ponytail of your dreams.

Tips For Keeping Your Hair Healthy While Using Hair Ties

Ponytails are a quick, convenient everyday look, but they can cause breakage if tied too tightly. Protect your locks from unnecessary tension with our top tips on how to use hair elastics while keeping your hair healthy.

Avoid Tight Ponytails Every Day

When it comes to how to use a hair tie safely, one of our top tips is to avoid tying your pony too tightly.

Hair styles that cause a lot of tension or pull your strands away from your hairline can cause quite a lot of breakage. To reduce stress on the same area, try switching your ponytail position regularly.

Do NOT Use Ties With Metal Pieces

Standard hair ties are often held together with a metal connector, but this can pull strands and cause additional breakage.

To avoid this, invest in metal-free hair ties. TELETIES Hair Ties never use metal connectors, making them gentler on your hair.

Skip Tight Ponytails on Wet Hair

While you might think pulling your wet hair into a sleek, tight ponytail is a good idea when you’re in a rush, it can result in unnecessary breakage.

Wet hair stretches more easily and is more prone to damage when pulled tightly, so try to avoid tying your hair in a ponytail while it’s still damp.

Rotate Your Hair Tie Sizes

Larger, stretchier hair ties are less likely to cause tension, so try to add these into your hair tie rotation whenever you can.

Softer hair ties, such as TELETIES scrunchies, are a great choice for a loose ponytail on low-effort days. Rotate these with tighter hair ties for events when you want a more polished, slick look.

If you’re looking for more advice on how to use a hair tie while keeping your hair in great condition, read our tips to reduce hair and scalp damage with ponytails.

Want More Information About TELETIES Hair Ties?

So, now you know how to use hair ties! If you want to learn more about the full TELETIES hair tie range, head over to our blog post explaining why TELETIES outperform every other hair tie.

Shop our collection of stylish and gentle hair ties today.

How to Use a Hair Tie FAQs

What is the jawline rule for ponytails?

To get the perfect ponytail every single time, we recommend following the jawline rule. This involves tracing a diagonal line from the bottom of your chin, up behind your ears, and finishing at the back of your head. Wherever this line ends is where your pony should sit. Finally, follow our how-to hair tie top tips to secure it perfectly in place.

Should I tie my hair up when it’s wet?

Whether you’re still learning how to tie a hair tie or are a seasoned pro, you should always avoid tying your hair up while it’s still wet. Wet hair is weaker, so applying too much tension can cause breakage.

Can hair ties cause breakage?

Yes, hair ties can cause breakage. To avoid this, invest in hair accessories that offer a secure but gentle hold.