How to Do a Side-Swept Ponytail

Ponytails never seem to go out of style. Sometimes they're more popular on different parts of the head and with various lengths of hair. A side-swept ponytail can be elegant or casual, depending upon your choice of accessories and finishing touches.

Instructions

1. Wash and condition your hair the day before you wear a side-swept ponytail. Styling your hair immediately after shampooing leaves it prone to breakage from tight ponytail bands. By the next day, some of your hair's natural oils will protect the hair shaft and lend it some shine.

2. Blow-dry your hair on a medium/low setting, using a large round hairbrush to straighten out waves. Use a straightening balm if your hair is naturally kinky.

3. Brush dry hair thoroughly before gathering behind one ear and binding with an elasticized ponytail holder. Run your fingers lightly over your hair in the direction of the ponytail base to assure that there are no major lumps.

4. Spray your head lightly with hairspray and run a medium-tooth comb gently from the roots to the ponytail base in order to bring unruly hairs into a uniform pattern. When the comb reaches the base of the ponytail, slide it out gently at an angle to keep hair smooth.

5. Curl your ponytail for a flirty look or apply styling pomade for a sleek sophisticated look. As a finishing touch, you can add a ribbon or bejeweled band.

Tips & Warnings

• Fasten a ponytail high on the side of your head for an instant facelift.

• Double the hair length around and tuck it back into the ponytail band to create a professional look that can easily go from office to dinner.

• Ponytails can create headaches if the hair follicles bend to one side for a few hours. If you experience scalp pain or a headache, shampoo your hair while gently massaging your scalp. When your hair dries, the pain should be gone.