How to care for your Clip-in ponytail: tips and tricks

How to care for your Clip-in ponytail: tips and tricks

Recently bought a clip-in ponytail? We'll talk you through industry tips and tricks to leave your ponytail looking in tip-top condition. Hear from industry expert Emma on the do's and don't when it comes to ponytail extensions.

You've taken the plunge and entered the world of clip-in ponytails. We'll talk you through industry tips and tricks to leave your ponytail looking in tip-top condition. We know you have lots of questions so we spoke with Emma our hair expert and customer service manager to answer them.

• Preparing Your Hair Before Installing Your Clip-In Ponytail
• How To Properly Install Your Clip-In Ponytail Extensions
• How long will a clip-in ponytail last
• How to heat style a clip-in ponytail extension
• Best hair treatments for Clip-in ponytails
  
• Can I use hair gel, hair mouse or hair spray on my clip-in ponytail?
• Can I use dry shampoo on a clip-in ponytail?
• Best shampoos and conditioners to use for a clip-in ponytail
• How to brush a ponytail extension 
  
• How to remove tangles and knots from ponytail extensions 
• How to remove tangles and knots from ponytail extensions 
• How to store a ponytail extension?
• Can I sleep in a clip-in ponytail?
• Can I swim in a clip-in ponytail?

Preparing Your Hair Before Installing Your Clip-In Ponytail

Taking the time to prepare your natural hair will not only ensure a seamless and secure attachment but also enhance the overall look and longevity of your clip-in ponytail. By following a few simple steps, you can create a flawless and natural result and ensure the longevity of your ponytail.

Wash and condition your natural hair

In order to get the most out of your clip-in ponytail, it's essential that you take care of your own natural hair as well. This means washing and conditioning your hair regularly so that it stays healthy and strong.

Make sure hair is dry before installing

When installing any type of hair extensions, it is important to make sure that your hair is fully dry. This is crucial because wet or damp hair can cause the extensions to become loose or slip out. Dry hair allows the clips or combs on the extensions to better secure and hold the ponytail in place. This ensures that the ponytail stays put, allowing you to confidently go about your day.

How To Properly Install Your Clip-In Ponytail Extensions

Installing your clip-in ponytail extensions doesn't have to be difficult, and with a few simple steps, you can achieve a gorgeous hairstyle that suits your hair type in no time. We've written an in-depth guide on each installation process depending on the attachment type. So, follow the links below to see the guide for your chosen attachment to make sure you are doing it correctly.

How to fit a Drawstring ponytail extension attachment

How to fit a Claw clip ponytail extension attachment

How to fit a Wrap-around ponytail extension attachment

How long will a clip-in ponytail last

Human Hair Clip-in ponytails come with a more expensive price tag and with correct care will usually last longer than synthetic versions. Different brands also use different qualities of human hair material which will affect longevity. Dependant on hair wear and other factors like, heat usage, sunlight exposure, product usage, and swimming in seawater and chlorine water will determine the lifespan. As a guide, we say human hair ponytails will tend to last 6 months or 40-50 wears.

Synthetic Clip-in ponytails come in various different levels of quality. There are ponytails you can pick up from Amazon for £5 that aren't going to look great or last very long. At Stranded we use an advanced synthetic hair fibre called 'Clever Fibre', we've worked hard with manufacturers to develop a fibre that mimics the look and feel of human hair. Generally, if you follow the correct advice a Stranded Clip in Pony should last 1-3 months or 20-30 wears. Our data suggests that on average Stranded customers re-purchase a new ponytail every 58 days.

How to heat style a clip-in ponytail extension

Human Hair Extensions can be treated differently from synthetic ponytails when it comes to heat styling. The brand's known quality is a major factor in heat styling, poorer quality real hair just won't take the heat as well and you will end up with dry and frizzy ends.  On all human hair extensions to minimize heat damage, it is crucial to take a proactive approach by utilizing a heat protection spray, avoiding excessive heat exposure, and incorporating alternative styling methods.

The first step is to apply a heat protectant spray to your dry or damp ponytail. This product acts as a barrier between the hair and heat, reducing the risk of damage. Simply spritz a small amount onto your hands and distribute it evenly throughout the hair, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends.

Give your human ponytail extension the perfect blow-dry, but be sure to keep a safe distance of at least 2 inches from its strands to avoid hair damage! Keep in mind the style of the ponytail as blowdrying in a new style might be irreversable. 

Next, it is important to avoid excessive heat exposure. Consider adjusting the temperature settings on your hair dryer to a lower level to prevent overheating the extensions. Opt for ceramic heat temperature adjustable tools, as they distribute heat more evenly and efficiently. Additionally, limit the use of heat styling tools to a few times over the usage of your ponytail, allowing your extensions to rest and recover.

Implementing alternative styling methods can further minimize heat damage. Embrace air-drying whenever possible, using a microfiber towel or cotton shirt to gently squeeze out excess moisture.

Synthetic ponytail extensions have different qualities and temperature limits. At Stranded, we use 'clever fibre' that imitates real hair and can withstand temperatures up to 200 degrees. Our pieces come pre-styled to minimize the need for additional styling.

Blowdrying synthetic ponytails is possible with consideration of the manufacturer's recommended temperature for the fibre. At Stranded, our fibre is heat resistant up to 200 degrees, allowing blowdrying of stranded ponytail extensions from a distance of 6" from the hair. Be mindful of blowdrying out any styles in the ponytails as they will be difficult to recreate.

It is recommended to only use heated tools to adjust the styles of synthetic pieces. For example, if you have a straight hair ponytail, it may be difficult to change it to a curly style. Instead, we suggest using straighteners on the product.

On the other hand, if you have a curly ponytail, we do not recommend straightening it as the layers are designed for a curly style. However, you can define the curls by going over the ponytail and curling small sections of hair. Hold or pin the curl while it cools to maintain the shape.

Best hair treatments for Clip-in ponytails

Real Hair clip-in ponies react to hair products similarly to your natural hair. However, it's important to note that they do not receive the same nutrients as your own hair, so they may need some additional care.

Hair oils and serums for hair extensions are recommended such as Moroccan oil. These oils replace natural oils ponytail extensions don't receive because they are not connected to your scalp. Oils also seal the hair cuticles, preventing frizz, tangling and breakage. Oils enhance the shine, softness and texture of hair extensions, keeping them looking natural over time. Natural, organic and unrefined oils are best, as they contain better ingredients and more nutrients. Argan oil (Main ingredient in Moroccan oil), coconut oil and castor are some of the best options.

Adding too much product at once is not good for the extensions and can cause matting because the excess product builds up and creates a sticky residue. Start with a pea-sized amount and add more gradually if needed.

Hair Masks Revive your neglected and damaged ponytail extensions with hair masks specially formulated for hair extensions, like the Neal and Wolf Hydrate Mask. Say goodbye to damaged hair and hello to luscious, revitalized ponytails!

Synthetic clip-in ponytails don't absorb nutrients from hair treatments like human hair ponytails. Some products can still be used, but hair masks won't really do anything except make them smell good. A little bit of hair oil or serum can help with frizzy ends, but be careful not to use too much or it'll make the ponytail look greasy.

Introducing our top pick for synthetic extension maintenance: the African Essence Control! And here's a little secret hack that some customers swear by: diluting fabric softener with water and spritzing it onto your extensions. But remember, try this one with caution and test it on a small section first!

Can I use hair gel, hair mouse or hair spray on my clip-in ponytail?

Fixing products can be applied to a ponytail extension and should be rinsed out afterwards. It is advised to use them in moderation. Typically, ponytails are pre-styled and do not require any fixing products to keep the style.

Can I use dry shampoo on a clip-in ponytail?

You can use dry shampoo on a clip-in ponytail. Just remember to use it sparingly on your hair extensions. If your ponytail is looking too shiny and greasy, a little dry shampoo can work wonders. It's a genius hack to soften everything down and reduce the shine of greasy hair.

Best shampoos and conditioners to use for a clip-in ponytail

Real Hair Ponytails need to be washed in products specially formulated for hair extensions. Avoid using products that contain alcohol, as it can be drying and damaging to both the extensions and natural hair. Additionally, products that contain heavy oils, silicones, and sulfates should be minimized, as they can weigh down the extensions and lead to product buildup.

Synthetic Ponytails need to be washed with a mild shampoo like a PH-balanced baby shampoo.  Always wash your ponytail separately from your natural hair in lukewarm water. To dry, wrap the ponytail in a towel to remove excess water and leave the wet hair to dry naturally. Read our more in-depth guide on washing your clip in hair extensions.

How to brush a ponytail extension 

Regularly brushing through your ponytail extensions is essential to prevent tangles and maintain their overall condition. Whether you have tape-in, clip-in, or sew-in extensions, proper brushing techniques are vital to keeping extensions looking and feeling their best.

Tangles can occur when hair extensions are left unattended for prolonged periods or when they come into contact with wind, water, or friction from clothing. By gently brushing through your extensions with a soft bristle brush, you can easily detangle any knots or snarls before they become more severe. Regularly running your fingers through your ponytail will help prevent knots and matting.

Wide-tooth combs are useful for detangling and maintaining curly and flicky styles in pre-styled synthetic ponytail extensions.

How to remove tangles and knots from ponytail extensions 

Start at the ends of your hair and gently brush using a smooth finish extension brush. Make sure to untangle any knots or tangles with your fingers or gently prise them open with your tailcomb. When brushing the key is to use long, smooth strokes. It also helps prevent tangling and matting, which is important for hair extensions. Take your time and be patient while detangling. 

Can I dye ponytail extensions

Human Hair Ponytails can be dyed using hair dye that is suitable for your natural hair. It is recommended that you have them professionally dyed and avoid using box dyes from drugstores and supermarkets. This will ensure that your extensions do not get damaged or lose their quality. We would also recommend test dyeing a small section of the hair and checking with the manufacturer first as it varies from brand to brand.

Synthetic Clip in ponytails are usually nylon or acrylic fibres, meaning that they can't absorb normal hair dye. Instead, use fabric dyes that are designed for polyester and synthetic materials.

How to store a ponytail extension?

Store your ponytail in different ways, and create a hair wardrobe with the ponytails hanging from rails, store them in drawers in silk bags. At Stranded we think our packaging does the perfect job. Simply wrap your pony back inside the hair net and store it inside the box. However, you store them the secret is to keep them away from items where they can get tangles and matted.

Can I sleep in a clip-in ponytail?

Short answer No! We strongly advise against it, It would be uncomfortable and can wreck the styles and attachments of ponytails. They are one of the quickest types of extensions to remove and refit so there's no need to sleep in one.

Can I swim in a clip-in ponytail?

We recommend not to get your hair hair wet. Chlorinated pools and saltwater can wreak havoc on a ponytail extension and make your purchase a waste of money instantly. Ponytails are a godsend for active swimmers over permanent hair extensions because they can be easily removed and refitted.

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