Scrunchie-covered, sky-reaching ponytails ruled the ‘80s. 2015’s sleek, low ponies soon brought things down to earth. But regardless of height, parting, or teasing, all good ponytails have one thing in common: volume. And what’s the key to a full, swinging updo? A quality ponytail hair extension allows stylists to renew flat, unimpressive locks in seconds.
Read on to discover how to put in a ponytail hair extension for impressive transformations worthy of date nights or everyday errand runs.
What Are Ponytail Hair Extensions?
First, the basics. A ponytail hair extension is a hairpiece designed to add commitment-free length and volume to an updo without standing out in the natural hair. While some ponytail extensions contain synthetic fibers, HALOCOUTURE®’s The Pony features Remy human hair, a hair grade where all cuticles flow in the same direction as hair does naturally. Simply put, Remy hair is the finest quality hair available.
What do stylists think of HALO’s clip-in ponytail extension? We sat down with professional HALO hairstylist and extension specialist Dakota Linden (@dakota_kristin) to answer some of the most common ponytail questions. For Dakota, one of the biggest benefits of The Pony is its accessibility: “[It] adds the perfect amount of fullness and length and can be installed in minutes!”
How Do You Attach Ponytail Hair Extensions?
Before choosing a ponytail extension, first understand which attachment technique suits your hair needs.
- Claw-Clip Ponytail Hair Extensions
One method involves opening a claw clip and fastening it over your ponytail. Although the installation process only takes seconds, the clip can place pressure on the scalp over time. Those with fine hair may also not have enough volume on their natural pony to hold the clip in place.
2. Wrap-Around Ponytail Hair Extensions
A wrap-around ponytail extension is equipped with a comb and section of hair that encircles the base of the ponytail. While the installation may take a bit longer, this method creates the most polished finish with its section of hair designed to conceal your hair tie.
How to Make a Ponytail with Extensions
Step 1: Starting with clean, detangled hair, pull your hair up into a ponytail.
Step 2: Secure The Pony at the top of your ponytail using its built-in comb.
Step 3: Tightly wrap the section of hair around the application point to conceal your hair band. The Velcro ensures a firm hold.
Step 4: Pin the end of the hair section with a bobby pin to lock in place.
Step 5: Style away!
How Long Does Your Hair Need to be to Wear a Ponytail Extension?
According to styling pro Dakota, to wear a ponytail hair extension, “you need enough of your own natural hair to be pulled up into a ponytail (so The Pony has something to attach to).” She added, “even if it’s an inch or two long, The Pony wraps around and covers your natural hair to give you a whole new look.”
HALOCOUTURE’s The Pony is available in 16 inches, providing stylists sufficient length for any transformation.
What are Some Ways to Style a Ponytail Hair Extension?
While behind the chair Dakota typically uses The Pony to add “beautiful, bouncy volume to any ponytail,” she wields the extension for other hairstyles as well. Anyone with fine hair understands the battle of sad-looking top knots. Dakota, for her part, achieves an effortless twist with The Pony, from “styling a messy bun or even a classic, tight bun updo.”
Can You Wear a Ponytail Hair Extension with Curly Hair?
Producers create curly ponytail extensions by treating the hair and applying heat to lock in the desired texture. Although HALO offers a straight ponytail extension, those with curly hair can still enjoy the piece. According to Dakota, The Pony “holds such a nice curl” and “you can definitely curl it with a tight iron and set it!”
How do You Maintain the Quality of a Ponytail Extension?
Unlike semi-permanent extensions, The Pony can be removed before exercising, swimming, showering, and sleeping—which not only helps prevent tangling but also some of the harmful effects of excessive washing. However, since your ponytail extension does not receive natural oils from the scalp, Dakota recommends washing the extension “once every four to six uses... especially if you are [applying] a lot of hair spray or texture spray.” She herself opts for the HALO hair care line, since it is “specially formulated with ingredients needed to protect the keratin seal.” The Silk Spritz in particular is a standout for Dakota: “I always keep [it] on hand for that extra boost of shine on your finished look!”
Why Should Someone Consider a Clip-In Ponytail Extension?
When you can’t be bothered with a curtain of hair but still seek an elevated style, a ponytail hair extension is one of the simplest ways to boost your natural waves. Paul Labrecque, owner of Manhattan-based salon of the same name told Allure he suggests The Pony for achieving the glamour of runway topknots.
As Dakota puts it, “Do you ever feel like your natural ponytail just isn’t bouncy or full enough? For special occasions, a night out, or even day to day, The Pony is so comfortable!”
