Ponytail and Hair Damage

Q: I have to wear my long hair in a ponytail for work all the time. What is a good shampoo and conditioner that will help to protect my hair from damage and help repair the already damaged?

A: I deal with a number of clients (and family members) who have long hair and are in pretty much the same position you are concerning the needed hairstyle of their workplace. What I recommend is that you look for a shampoo and conditioner formulated to provide “smooth and sleek” hair. These are available from a variety of manufacturers, and you can feel free to select a brand you are comfortable with.

In addition, I suggest you use a leave-in conditioner as well as a smoothing/anti-frizz serum on your hair after it has been towel-dried to keep the hair silky and less prone to breakage from being rubbed against itself when you confine it to the ponytail.

The actual ponytail is the best focus for attention if you want to prevent damaging your hair. The best thing for you to do is to carefully and gently brush the hair back from the forehead and gather it at the nape of the neck/base of the skull area. Do not pull the hair tight in the pony tail, as this can cause stress to the hair at the front hairline as it will leave the bulk of the hair’s weight resting on those hairs furthest away from the gathering point.

The goal is to gather the hair loosely enough that the hair is not forced to bear any more than its own weight. It may take some practice, but you can ultimately create a ponytail that looks sleek and smooth, but doesn’t stress your hair in any way.

© Greatestlook.com
Photo: Diana Shilovskaya/Shutterstock

See also:

Hair care

Damaged hair