A sleek ponytail is a staple hairstyle everyone needs in their routine. Whether you're looking for an easy last minute hairstyle or just want to keep things clean and chic when going out, this classic hairstyle is perfect for any situation. However, getting your natural curls to lay flat and stay in place for a sleek ponytail can sometimes prove to be difficult–especially if you don't know what you're doing.
Lucky for you, we're going to save you all the disappointment and confusion. In this article, we'll be revealing our expert styling tips and tricks for creating the perfect sleek ponytail on natural hair. Whether you've got type 4 coils or loose curls, we've got you covered. Keep scrolling to get a step-by-step breakdown.
Cleanse Your Hair
If you want good results, it is always best to start your ponytail on clean hair. Start by removing all traces of oil build up and dirt from your hair using our Hydration Shampoo to create a clean base for a sleek bun. After shampooing, it is also essential to follow up with a nourishing conditioner like our Moisture Rich Conditioner or Manuka Honey Deep Conditioning Mask. This will soften and smoothen your hair while improving its manageability. Leave the conditioner in your hair for a few minutes before rinsing it out thoroughly.
Moisturise And Detangle
Once your hair is clean, you'll need to give your hair an extra boost of moisture using our Manuka Honey Leave-In Conditioner. This is very crucial because if you try to manipulate and style your hair when it is dry, you could cause breakage. Applying a leave-in conditioner will also make it easier to detangle your curls. Apply our leave-in conditioner evenly, then use a wide tooth comb to thoroughly detangle your hair from ends to roots. Be sure to detangle carefully to ensure a seamless styling process.
Part Your Hair
When creating a sleek ponytail, it is always best to work in sections. To do this, you'll need to divide your hair into two sections using a rat tail comb. This will create a back section and a front section that you can work with one at a time. After parting each section, use a hair clip to keep each section separate and secure.
Sleek Down Each Section
Starting from the back section of hair, apply a generous amount of Sofnfree's Curl Elongating Gel, then use a brush to evenly distribute the gel through your hair. Once the gel is evenly distributed, use a boar bristle brush or your palms to smooth down the section of hair. Once the back portion is slicked down, use a hair tie to keep it secure before moving on to the front section.
When styling the front section, repeat the same steps and then remove the hair tie at the back and use it to secure the entire hair. If you'd like to style your ponytail with a part, use a rat tail comb to create your desired part in the front section of your hair before applying hair gel. You can try a middle part, side part, or even a zig-zag part.
After securing your ponytail with a hair tie, apply a little bit of Sofnfree's Curling Mousse on the ends of your ponytail to smoothen and define your curls while giving them a beautiful shine.
Style Your Edges
Style your edges with a thick gel like our Twist & Braid Gel to give your ponytail an extra touch of glam and flair. This step is completely optional, but it will elevate the final look of your ponytail. You'll need an edge brush and a little bit of the gel on your edges to create cute swirls and swoops with your baby hairs.
Set Your Ponytail
The final step to completing your sleek bun routine is to tie your hair down with a silk or satin scarf. Leave the scarf on for 30 minutes to set your ponytail. For an extra sleek and smooth finish, you can leave the scarf on overnight and take it off in the morning to reveal your sleek ponytail.
A sleek ponytail is a very versatile and chic hairstyle that is perfect for all hair types. It is easy and great for anyone looking for a low maintenance hairstyle, so do not hesitate to try it on your natural curls. Just be sure to use a combination of good styling products like the one in our Stylers Bundle which provide long lasting hold and shine.