Hair ties and hair clips are a lifesaver for keeping your hair off your neck and out of the way, especially when you're sweating, but let’s be honest—they don’t always do the job. Sometimes, they come undone at the worst times, like when you’re in the middle of something important. It’s super annoying because you have to stop, fix your hair, and then it happens all over again. So frustrating!  

This could happen for a bunch of reasons. Maybe you’re using the wrong kind of hair tie, not wrapping it enough, or your activity is just too intense. Whatever the reason, here are some tips to make sure your hair ties stay in place.

Why Do Hair Ties Slip?

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Hair ties slip for many reasons, but the most common is using the wrong type of hair tie for your hair type. Every hair tie is designed differently. What’s suited for your hair might not work for another person’s hair type. Most brands mention what hair type their ties are designed for so choose accordingly. And even if you have the right type of hair tie, it might just be too old and stretched out. You need to replace your hair elastics every month or so.

Another reason is because you have too many slippery hair products in your hair like oils, serums, or leave-in conditioners. While these products help in managing frizz or adding shine, they can also reduce the friction needed for the hair tie to stay put.

Not wrapping your hair or using the wrong technique might also be a reason. Of course, the number of wraps will depend on the type of hair you have. If the tie feels loose right after you put it in, it’s definitely going to slide out as you move around. You’ll need to wrap it one or two more times to make sure it’s snug. The tighter it is (without being uncomfortable), the better it’ll hold.

How to Prevent Hair Ties from Slipping

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Here are some practical ways to prevent hair ties from slipping:

Go for High-Quality, Strong-Grip Hair Ties 

Cheap, flimsy hair ties might work for a bit, but they stretch out quickly and don’t hold up against intense movement like working out or running. They’re also not suited for curly, coily, kinky, or other thicker hair types. 

Instead, go for brands like Burlybands that are designed to handle all-day wear and even intense activities. These hair ties are made specifically for thick or textured hair. They’re durable, don’t lose their elasticity, and provide a secure hold without pulling or causing breakage. 

Secure Your Hairstyle With Bobby Pins  

If your hair tie tends to slip no matter what, especially for activities where there’s a lot of movement, bobby pins might work. Tie your hair as usual. Then, take a couple of bobby pins and insert them into the hair tie, angling them toward your scalp. Pin any shorter sections back as well. Be careful when removing the pins as they might cause breakage.

Add Another Wrap  

If the hair tie feels loose when you first put it in, it’s almost guaranteed to slide out later. Add a wrap or two to apply more tension. You want the tie to feel snug but not so tight that it’s uncomfortable or pulling on your hair.

If you’re working with a thick or textured hair type, Burlyband hair ties are exactly what you need. They’re stretchy enough to wrap tightly without snapping or stretching out over time.  

Try a Different Style

If you’re working out or doing any high-intensive activity, a simple ponytail or bun will not cut it out especially if your hair straight, silky, or heavily layered. Instead, try low ponytails, pigtails or braided styles. These tend to hold better because they distribute tension more evenly across your hair.

Try Different Fabrics  

Some fabrics naturally grip hair better than others. Hair ties are made from a bunch of different materials. For thick or curly hair, go for textured fabrics like velvet or terry cloth. For fine or silky hair, you might want to avoid anything slippery like satin or silk unless they’re specifically designed to grip.  

You’ll also find hair ties with rubberized coating or silicone grips which are excellent if you’ve tried everything and nothing seems to work. 

Tips for Choosing the Best Hair Ties for Your Hair Type

• For Fine Hair: Use ties with added grip, such as velvet or rubberized materials.
• For Thick Hair: Opt for larger, strong elastics that won’t stretch out quickly.
• For Workouts: Look for ties marketed as “sport” or “active” hair ties.
• For Everyday Use: Choose gentle ties that don’t tug or cause breakage, like scrunchies or soft fabric ties.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overstretching the Hair Tie: Avoid wrapping the tie too many times around your hair, as it can weaken the material and reduce grip.
• Using the Wrong Size: Hair ties that are too large for your hair type will slip easily. Make sure the size matches your hair volume.
• Skipping Hair Preparation: Tying hair when it’s wet or excessively oily can make it harder for the tie to hold.

Summary

Hair ties slipping can be frustrating, but it’s a problem with plenty of easy fixes. Remember to choose high-quality hair ties, avoid slippery products, and experiment with styles that naturally grip better.

Tired of dealing with hair ties that don’t stay in place? Check out Burlybands. Made with durable, no-slip materials, they’re perfect for workouts, daily wear, or special occasions. Shop with us today.