Three Perfect Ponytails

Summer is the season of the ponytail, and lucky for you it can be a super-chic ’do when done the right way. We got the scoop from Natasha Sunshine of the Byu-Ti Hair Therapy salon in Los Angeles on how to style yours so you don’t look like you just left the gym.

Straight With Height
Start by blow-drying your hair, then use a dollop of a styling cream or shine serum to smooth your hair back from your hairline. Using a fine-tooth comb, sweep your hair back to the center of your head above the crown, teasing the top for height. Pull the rest of your hair into a high ponytail. Mist on a hairspray for a light, yet firm, hold.

Side-swept
Choose a side part and lightly spritz hairspray on your hair, smoothing it over to the opposite side. Secure a loose ponytail halfway between your ear and the center of the back of your hairline, placing the band about 1 inch away from the base of the scalp.

Low and Loose
“To wear this worn-in style, skip the brush and use your hands to pull your hair back into a center ponytail,” says Sunshine. Place your band at least 1 inch away from your scalp and let pieces fall out naturally. Scrunch the final pony to give it natural texture, and spritz a lightweight finishing spray over the ’do for hold.

Photo: Getty Images