Thick hair is gorgeous, no doubt. But keeping it healthy? That’s another story. If you're like me, you’ve probably snapped more hair ties than you can count — or worse, you’ve had to deal with that annoying breakage. The wrong hair ties can pull, snag, and damage your hair. But the good news? You don’t have to put up with it. Let’s get into it. 

Why Is Your Thick Hair Breaking?

Thick hair looks strong, but it’s not invincible. One big reason for breakage is pulling your hair too tight in a ponytail, bun, or braid. It could also be the fact that you’re using the wrong hair ties. Or, maybe you’re using too much heat and have neglected your hair care routine. Another factor could be that you’ve chemically damaged your hair from bleach and hair dyes. 

What to Look Out for and What to Avoid When Choosing Hair Ties

There are a few key things to keep in mind when choosing hair ties for thick hair. Let’s break it down:

What to Look For:

• Thick, Wide Bands: Go for hair ties that are thick and have a wide band to distribute pressure evenly over your hair and help avoid tension in just one spot. 
• Choose Soft, Stretchy Material: Look for fabric-covered elastics or scrunchies made from silk or satin. They’re gentler on your hair and less likely to cause friction.
  
• Go for Coil or Spiral Hair Ties: These look like old-school telephone cords (if you know, you know). They grip your hair without pulling and distribute tension well. Plus, they’re less likely to leave that dreaded dent in your hair after you take your ponytail down.
  
• Choose a Slip-Resistant Grip: If you’re always redoing your ponytail because it slides out, look for hair ties that have a bit of grip and are made from a non-slip texture.

What to Avoid:

• Avoid Thin, Tight Elastics: Thin elastics can be terrible for thick hair. They get tangled easily, dig into your hair, and can cause breakage when you try to take them out.
  
• Avoid Metal Clasps and Seams: Avoid metal clasps or seams at all costs! The metal can snag and tear your hair, especially when you’re trying to take them out. Seamless options are way safer.
  
• Avoid Rubber Bands: Never use regular rubber bands as hair ties. They create way too much friction and will rip out chunks of your hair when you remove them.
  
• Avoid Rough or Cheap Materials: Hair ties made from rough or low-quality materials can damage your hair over time. If they feel scratchy or stiff, skip them.

How to Tie Your Hair Without Causing Breakage

Credit: Envato Elements/ kitzstocker

Here are some simple tips to tie your hair in ways that keep it looking strong and healthy:

Don’t Tie It Too Tight

I get it — sometimes you just want your hair to stay put. But constantly pulling your hair into super tight styles puts a lot of tension on your scalp and strands. This stress can weaken your hair and cause breakage, especially around your hairline. Go for a secure but loose style. You should be able to move your head without feeling that pull. 

Use the Right Hair Tie

Always go for soft, wide, or fabric-covered hair ties like scrunchies, spiral ties, or seamless elastics. They grip without digging into your hair. Avoid anything with metal or super-tight elastics.

Switch Up Your Style

Wearing the same ponytail or bun every single day can cause breakage in the same spot. If you love ponytails, try changing the position — high one day, low the next, maybe a loose braid the day after. This spreads out the pressure and gives those stressed areas a break.

Detangle Before You Tie

Ever tried to pull your hair into a ponytail when it’s a tangled mess? Yeah, not fun. Brushing out your hair before tying it up can save you from pulling and snagging on those knots. Use a wide-tooth comb or a detangling brush to remove tangles.

Protect Your Hair at Night

If you like tying your hair before bed, go for a loose braid or a low ponytail with a silk or satin scrunchie. Silk and satin cause way less friction than regular hair ties, so you’re less likely to wake up with breakage or frizz. 

Avoid Wet Hair Ties

Your hair is weaker when it’s wet. It stretches more than dry hair, and if you pull it back tightly, it can snap. If you need to tie it up while it’s wet, use a loose scrunchie or leave-in conditioner to give it some extra protection.

Be Gentle When Taking It Out

We’ve all done the “rip-it-out” move when we’re tired or in a rush. Don’t do this! Gently unravel your ponytail or bun, and if your hair tie is stuck, wiggle it out slowly instead of yanking. 

Extra Tips to Prevent Hair Breakage

• Condition regularly. Well-moisturized hair is more elastic and less prone to breakage.

• Avoid heat damage as it could weaken your hair over time. If using hot tools, always use a heat protectant.

• Regular trim your split ends to prevent them from traveling up the hair shaft.

Summary

Reducing hair breakage for thick hair is possible with the right hair ties and techniques. Choose seamless or fabric-covered hair ties, avoid tying your hair too tightly, and switch up your styles regularly. 

Looking for the perfect hair ties for thick hair? Check out Burlybands – the ultimate hair ties designed specifically for thick hair. They’re strong, seamless, and gentle. Shop with us today.