How to Create a Sleek Ponytail

Start with damp hair, use a smoothing product, brush everything back tightly, and secure with an elastic at your desired height.

A perfect sleek ponytail is architecture, not accident—every hair has a purpose and a place.

1. Prep with product. Work a smoothing serum or gel through damp hair from roots to ends. This creates the foundation for sleekness and prevents flyaways from ruining your clean lines.
2. Brush back firmly. Use a fine-tooth comb or boar bristle brush to pull all hair straight back to your chosen height. Work in sections if needed, ensuring no bumps or loose pieces remain.
3. Secure and refine. Tie with a snag-free elastic, then take a small section from underneath the ponytail and wrap it around the base to hide the elastic. Pin the end underneath and mist with hairspray for hold.