Pros and Cons of Using a Ponytail Extension

by Gary Howe
Do Hair Extensions Damage Hair?

Pros and Cons of Using a Ponytail Extension

Ponytail extensions are a great way to instantly add length and thickness to your natural hair. Let's explore the pros and cons of these marvellous, confidence-boosting extensions.

Keep Reading
  • Introducing the Ponytail Extension
  • Ponytail Extension Pros and Cons
  • Types Of Ponytail Extensions: Human v Synthetic
  • Attachment Types Of Ponytail Extensions

Introducing the Ponytail Extension

The ponytail is a classic hairstyle that has been loved and embraced by women for decades. It provides a quick and easy way to keep hair off your face and neck, while still looking stylish and put together. However, not everyone has the length or thickness of hair needed to achieve the perfect ponytail. And sometimes even if you do have enough, you just can't nail the look - enter the ponytail extension.

Ponytail Extension Pros and Cons

Ponytail extensions are a great way to instantly add length and thickness to your natural hair. Whether you're looking for an easy style on a busy day or want to make a dramatic statement with your hairstyle, ponytail extensions can be the perfect hair solution. However, like any hair extension, there are both pros and cons to using ponytail extensions.

Pro - Ponytail Extensions add volume and fullness to your hair

Ponytail extensions instantly add length and give you thicker hair, it's probably the easiest hair extension method you can do. Whether you have short or thin hair, a ponytail extension can transform your look by creating a fuller and more voluminous ponytail.

Con - Ponytail extensions won't work on my hair type

Unlike other types of hair extensions, ponytails can attach to the shortest of hairs. This method of hair extension only requires you to be able to put your hair up in a bun, a clip-in or drawstring attachment is the best type of pony if you have short hair.

Pro- Ponytail Extensions are affordable

Tired of wasting time and money on pricey hair products that promise to give you the luscious locks you've always dreamed of? No more waiting around for your hair to grow – you can effortlessly achieve the length and volume of your dreams.

Con - Ponytail Extensions are noticeable

This all lies in the colour match to your hair colour and your mastery of the attachment. At Stranded we offer a wide range of colours and a free colour-matching service or the option to purchase colour swatches for just £1. Poorer hair quality is a telltale sign of an extension-always look for a brand that sells top quality hair extensions with good reviews. At Stranded we help you navigate the field of hair extensions and have step-by-step demos to ensure you fit ponytail extensions correctly, we've also a handy guide with tips and tricks to get a ponytail extension to blend perfectly with your natural locks.

Pro - Ponytail Extensions are Easy to Use

Ponytail extensions are incredibly easy to use with minimal application time. They usually come with a built-in clip or drawstring, allowing you to easily secure the extension to your natural ponytail. Within minutes, you can achieve a glamorous and stylish look.

Con - Ponytail Extensions can cause hair damage

Like most types of hair extensions, ponytail extensions can put additional strain on the hair and cause hair loss, and even traction alopecia when fitted incorrectly and overworn. It is important to note that this can also happen by simply wearing your natural hair in tight ponytails all of the time. We recommend periods of time when you give your hair a break with no extensions and this includes ponytails. Because of how quick these extensions are to put in and take out, we rate this type of hair extension as one of the least damaging.

Pro - Ponytail Extensions are non-permanent

Unlike permanent hair extension methods like Tape hair extensions that are worn for extended periods, ponytail extensions are not a permanent solution. This means that you can easily switch up your look whenever you want without the commitment of long-term extensions.

Con - Ponytail extensions are not secure and fall out

Ponytails can be secured in various ways and, when properly fastened, they will stay in place. However, even with the best clip-in ponytails, they are attached with an attachment and can be pulled out with force. Follow our handy tutorials to ensure proper fitment.

Pro - Ponytail Extensions are minimal damage

Ponytail extensions typically cause minimal damage to your natural hair. Unlike methods like permanent extensions and other clip-in hair extensions, ponytail extensions do not require the use of heat or adhesives, reducing the risk of hair breakage or loss.

Con - Ponytail Extensions are uncomfortable

With all extensions, you are adding something to your hair. There can be some time needed to get used to the weight of your new ponytail. If you are new to ponytail extensions we would suggest starting with one of our lighter ponytails like the Medium Wand Wave Ponytail.

Pro - Ponytail extensions offer the opportunity to experiment with different hairstyles

With clip-in ponytail extensions, you can find your confidence wearing different styles of ponytails. If you get bored of one, try another without the need to visit a salon. At Stranded we have 8 styles of ponytails available in 33 colours, allowing you to choose the one that best matches your hair type and desired look. Whether you want a sleek and straight ponytail or a curly and voluminous one, we have a ponytail extension for every hair goal.

Con - Ponytail Extensions can be high-maintenance

A ponytail extension is separate from your hair and can be cared for independently, but it does need proper care to ensure the ponytail lasts. It requires brushing and when washed allowed to dry naturally. A human hair ponytail is usually treated like your own hair but can be washed every 6-8 weeks depending on wear, synthetic extensions can usually be washed every 2-4 weeks depending on wear. Follow our handy guide for the best way to care for your hair extensions.

Types Of Ponytail Extensions: Human v Synthetic

There is a wide variety of ponytail extensions available on the market, typically made from either human hair or synthetic fibres. There are various levels of quality within these categories, and it is often true that you get what you pay for. However, it is important to be cautious as some brands may sell inferior products at higher prices. It is advisable to purchase from well-established and reputable stores with positive reviews.

Human Hair Ponytail Extensions:

Pro - Most realistic and natural look

Human hair extensions blend seamlessly with your own hair, offering a more realistic and natural look. Real Hair Ponytails can be heat-styled, coloured, and treated like your own hair.

Con - Not always value for money

Drawbacks of natural hair extensions include higher costs compared to synthetic options and the need for additional styling for the look you want to create. Additionally, they may not provide the desired level of fullness compared to other types of Clip-in ponytail extensions due to the price of the raw material.

Synthetic Hair Extensions:

Pro - Affordable and pre-styled

Synthetic ponytail extensions are more affordable and readily available in a variety of colours and styles. They can look and behave like human hair when a premium fibre is picked like Clever Fibre from Stranded Hair Group. They are typically pre-styled and require less styling to get the look.

Con - Not as long-lasting as human hair extensions

When cheaper Synthetic hair extensions are purchased they can look less natural compared to human hair and look shiny. Not all Synthetic extensions can handle heat styling and may not last as long as natural hair extensions. For proper care of synthetic extensions, follow our washing guide here.

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Attachment Types Of Ponytail Extensions

Ponytail extensions usually come in 3 different types of attachment, Claw Clip, Wrap-Around and Drawstring Ponytails. The installation process is similar across all methods and involves scraping your own hair back into a bun or ponytail.

Ponytail Extension with Claw Clip:

Ponytail extensions with a claw clip offer a quick and easy way to achieve a voluminous ponytail. They feature a claw-like clip that attaches to your natural hair, creating instant length and volume. At Stranded all of our Clip In Ponytails are convertible to a drawstring by removing the clip.

Pro - Easiest application process

Easiest of methods that can be applied in seconds. It usually requires less natural hair to attach to. This type of extension works well for most hair types and offers a secure hold.

Con - Can look bulky

However, the pressure from the claw clip can cause discomfort and may not be suitable for users with thin or fragile hair.


Drawstring Ponytail Extensions:

Drawstring ponytail extensions are Stranded's most popular attachment method, designed with an adjustable drawstring and comb attachment, allowing for easy and secure attachment to your natural hair.

Pro - Most secure attachment

This pony attachment is an absolute game-changer! With its innovative combs and drawstring, it effortlessly secures the pony to your natural hair, giving you a flawless grip like never before.

Con - Not the best for thick hair

If you have a lot of hair, it can be hard to fit all of it into a bun.


Wrap-around Ponytail Extensions:

Wrap-around ponytail extensions have a simple comb and velcro attachment that attaches to your natural hair within minutes. This is the most popular attachment for Human Hair Ponytail Extensions as it requires the least amount of raw material to make.

Pro - On Trend Attachment

Offers the smallest attachment between the extension and your natural hair for the most seamless of ponytails.

Con - Trickiest Attachment Process

This method can sometimes be a bit tricky, with some customers claiming it to be the least secure. However, it's important to note that any issues usually arise from improper fitment. Watch our how-to video to master the art of the wrap-around pony attachment.


Clip-in Hair Extensions:

Sometimes all you might want is some subtle volume to your own hair to give you more to play with when you put your hair up. Clip-in hair extension sets are a nice way to do this, simply clip in the wefts of hair for a gorgeous down style Now using a hair tie, simply tie up your hair up, the extra hair with clips attached will give you the hair for extra volume.

Pro - Worn up or down

Available in one piece or several weft options. It gives you the versatility of extensions that can be worn up or down. Individual wefts can be added to the area where your hair needs a little extra oomph.

Con - Limited styles

Styles that utilize clip-in extensions for ponytails can be restrictive as it can be challenging to attach enough hair to achieve certain styles. Ponytail styles typically require your natural hair to be pulled back, and it can sometimes be difficult to hide clip-ins along the front hairline.

Conclusion

Ponytails are a versatile hairstyle that can be worn for any occasion and with any outfit. However, if your hair is not long or thick enough, it may be challenging to achieve a ponytail. Fortunately, clip-in ponytail extensions are available to help you achieve the ponytail look you desire. These extensions are specifically designed for ponytails and can give you the confidence to wear your ponytail confidently, no matter the time or place.

If you are sold and are looking for the best clip-in ponytail extension, we can help. At Stranded, we supply over 8 different styles of ponytails, with hundreds of 5-star reviews. Browse our collection or receive your free colour match, we have a 99% success rate in matching your hair colour and if we don't get it right we offer free returns and exchanges.