An expert shares non-damaging options that range from oversized silk scrunchies to tiny clear elastics.
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When you think of hair styling tools, you most likely picture the best hair dryers, dry shampoos, or a great hair brush. But few beauty accessories are as essential as simple hair elastics that secure your hair without snagging, creasing, or causing damage. We’ve researched the best hair ties and the best scrunchies that will keep any type of hair healthy when it’s pulled back.
One size does not fit all when it comes to finding the best hair ties and scrunchies for your hair. Landing on a set that’s just right for you depends on your hair length, thickness, and texture, as well as how you style your hair. At recent fashion weeks, the street style set has shown the versatility of hair elastics and scrunchies for statement hair looks, from strong, standard elastics securing slicked-back buns to tiny clear elastics used for a bubble or braided ponytail. Related Articles Beauty The Luxury Beauty Brand That Keeps Runway Models Looking Freshly Rested During Fashion Week Has Great Deals on Amazon Luxury Stores Today Beauty This $5 Hydrating Drugstore Lip Gloss Has Been My Holy Grail for Years -- Here's Why 77,000 Amazon Shoppers Rave About Nyx's Butter Gloss
But beyond trendy hair looks, the right hair ties and scrunchies can also impact your hair in the long term. “Believe it or not, hair ties are an integral part of hair health,” explains Priscilla Valles, celebrity hairstylist and extension stylist. “To avoid breakage or damage, you must be gentle and use the appropriate hair tie for your length and texture.” Along with classic hair ties, consider silk versions that help improve hair health or scrunchies made with terry cloth fabric, made for wet hair and those with thicker volumes.
Ahead, we’ve rounded up the best hair ties and scrunchies with expert tips and picks, and what to look for when shopping for new hair ties.
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Over 80,000 five-star reviewers on Amazon agree that these Goody Ouchless Elastic Hair Ties are practical, well-priced, and sturdy. This top Amazon beauty product is a staple to keep in your beauty drawer, with a strong hold that secures ponytails, braids, and buns on the thickest of hair types. Each pack includes 30 ties made with soft elastic sans metal to prevent tugging and breakage. These basic hair ties are available in 28 colorways, too, so you can find a tone that matches your hair color or go for something bright to make a statement. What testers say: “These elastic hair ties have proven their mettle, even with my thick mane. The hold is commendable, keeping up with the demands of thick hair. However, take note—they are on the smaller side. For those with voluminous locks, paying attention to size is crucial. Once you find the right fit, these hair ties are reliable and durable, providing a sturdy hold without slipping.” Price upon publish date of this article: $3.84
Slip is known for its exceptional hair accessories and silk pillowcases created with long-fiber mulberry silk that’s soft, durable, and extra gentle on your skin and hair. If you’re looking to stock your stash with non-crease scrunchies, consider these the best silk scrunchies for the job. These silk-covered elastics are appropriate for thin to thick hair types, with a smooth feel but a strong hold that never causes creases or tangles. The brand offers plenty of neutral colorways as well as limited-edition prints and bedazzled options. What testers say: “I have fine, curly, thick hair that knots and breaks off easily. I wear these at night to keep the hair off of my face and when I run. I love them because they stay in when I sleep and run. They are also easy to wash. Although they are expensive, I still recommend them because they don’t rip out or break my hair!” Price upon publish date of this article: $37
Always losing your hair ties? If so, stock up on this 100-piece pack that includes a variety of colors. These are created with seamless stretchy cotton that’s nearly impossible to snap, making them a durable choice and one of the best hair ties for thick hair: Each elastic has a wide band that stretches up to 9.8 inches to maneuver around your tresses. What testers say: “They are the best hair ties I have ever used. Not once have they pulled a single hair from my head. I have a lot of fine hair. That means I have a lot of hair, but the hair itself is fine and breaks like crazy. I have been on a mission to save my hair, and these are helping. I’d also like to add, I have used the same two or over a month now and they are still like new. This bag will last me forever. For reference, I use two everyday to put my hair in a bun for work.” Price upon publish date of this article: $5.59
These small-but-mighty elastic bands from Goody are just the thing to use to create fun hairstyles. From bubble ponytails to braided tendrils, they tightly snatch your hair in place without looking clunky or slipping out mid-day. The band has a ridged design that’s ten times stronger than previous versions of these clear hair ties. Better yet, you can reuse these best invisible hair ties up to 10 times, depending how much you stretch them out. What testers say: “I have tried so many different rubber bands for many different hairstyles, including box braids and passion twists. These are the only rubber bands that actually hold and never snapped on me, not once. Although some of the rubber bands are different sizes, which can be annoying, but it’s not a big deal.” Price upon publish date of this article: $2.98
floral headband Testers with curly hair can’t stop raving about this pack of Kitsch hair ties. Their stretchy design makes it easy to toss your tresses up in a breeze, but don’t underestimate how much hair these scrunchies can hold — they have the right amount of strength for those even with longer lengths. Each of these best hair ties for curly hair contains eco-friendly satin that’s soft on strands and also reduces damage and breakage. You can snag the pack in a variety of colors, like a neutral color palette (shown above), black, and blush. What testers say: “I am a working mom of three and have naturally curly hair, so I am always looking for ways to put my hair up that are not damaging. These are perfect when it comes to being gentle but also firm enough to hold all of my hair. It doesn’t hurt that they’re cute and come in great colors!” Price upon publish date of this article: $7.99 Related: Best Hair Dryer