How to Hide Ponytail Elastic

A single strand hides the elastic in a ponytail.

A sleek ponytail can be further perfected when the elastic is hidden. Such a look was created in 2009 on the runway at Jason Wu's show by hairstylist Kevin Ryan, according to Glamour magazine. A ponytail with a hidden elastic is a style that can work on any hair texture or hair length. You can wear this look with a low ponytail, and with a higher ponytail as well. It is equally ideal as a casual look and an elegant style.

Instructions

1. Brush or comb hair to remove tangles. It helps to wash hair beforehand and apply a styling product such as mousse or serum, in addition to conditioner. This hairstyle works best on hair that is sleek, smooth and shiny. Part hair in the center, or on either side, unless you are making a high ponytail without a part.

2. Gather hair into a ponytail at the nape of the neck or higher. Secure it tightly with an elastic. Choose an elastic closest to your hair color, such as a black one for dark hair or a clear one for lighter hair. The ponytail should be tight, so that the elastic doesn't slide down or completely off over time.

3. Take a strand, about a 1/4-inch wide. You can leave it as is, or like Kevin Ryan, create a small loop at the end and secure the end with a clear elastic. This method helps avoid wispy ends.

4. 

   Keep hair sleek and smooth for an elegant look.

   Wrap the strand tightly around the elastic. Fix it along the way so that it doesn't slip off the elastic. Tuck the ends into the elastic. Secure it with small bobby pins or clips.

5. 

   Mess up the ponytail using hair gel for a casual look.

   Spray the ponytail with a hairspray to smooth it and hold flyaway hair in place. Roughen up the ponytail using your fingers, pulling random strands out of the elastic if you prefer a messier ponytail instead of a sleek ponytail. Use hair gel to scrunch the ponytail, giving it a slight wave.

References

• Glamour: 8 Glam Ways to Wear Your Ponytail