How to Create a Cornrow Ponytail

Section your hair into parallel parts, braid each section close to the scalp moving toward your crown, then gather all braids into a high ponytail.

1. Prep and section. Start with clean, slightly damp hair and apply a light leave-in conditioner for grip. Use a rat-tail comb to create straight, parallel parts from your hairline to your crown, making 4-6 sections depending on your hair thickness. Each section should be about an inch wide.
2. Begin the cornrows. Start with the section closest to your ear and divide it into three small strands at the hairline. Cross the right strand under the middle, then the left strand under the middle, pulling tight against your scalp. As you continue braiding backward, pick up small amounts of hair from the section and incorporate them into the outer strands.
3. Complete each row. Keep your tension consistent and braid each cornrow straight back toward your crown area where you want your ponytail to sit. The braids should lie flat against your head with no loose sections. Secure each completed cornrow with a small clear elastic.
4. Form the ponytail. Gather all the cornrow ends at your desired ponytail height and secure with a strong elastic band. Remove the small elastics from each braid end and gently tug at the ponytail to create volume and blend the braid ends together.