There’s no shortage of types of hair ties to choose from, but each is designed with a specific purpose and use. Some have metal bars on them while others are made from absorbent materials, and some are spirals vs. a round elastic band.
Below you’ll find each of the main types of hair ties, what their intended uses are, and some of the benefits or negatives of each.
- Elastic
- Coated elastic
- Spiral
- Scrunchies
- Metal bar hair ties
Elastic
Probably the most common type of hair tie due to its low cost, ease to replace, and being readily available. Elastic hair ties have been a go-to for styling, especially tight looks like lemonade braids or when you need to keep the hair tie hidden so the texture of your look takes center stage.
Their main use is for holding your hair in place whether it is to lift it up, or create a style where the tie stays hidden so the color of the band doesn't stand out.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Available almost anywhere including drug stores and grocery stores
- Does not take up much room in a drawer or your bag
Cons:
- Could be damaging if they grip tight against your locks or pull on your scalp
- They snap easily so you’ll need a backup if you’re out and about
- Creases can happen when they pull tight against your hair for extended periods of time
Coated Elastic
A coated elastic hair tie has all of the benefits of the standard rubber one, but the plastic or fabric coating without metal may help to reduce friction or breakage.
By reducing friction you may be able to stop additional breakage from happening if your hair is damaged or dry. The fabric may also be easier to slide through your hair resulting in less snags.
Pros:
- Potentially less friction and damage than non-coated
- Small pops of color
- Less snagging than traditional elastic hair bands
Cons:
- May slip more than non-coated elastic
- Can be tied too tight and pull on your scalp or locks
Spiral
Spiral hair ties, also known as hair coils, give you a strong grip while helping to reduce headaches as they may be less likely to rip compared to tight elastic. Some like ours here at TELETIES are made from innovative materials and have technology to stop them from slipping. Because they’re thicker than elastic hair ties, they add pops of color that complement your style.
Pros:
- Reduced creasing
- Adds pops of color to hairstyles
- Strong grip with less rip and pulling depending on the manufacturer
- Easier to slide in and out than elastic hair ties
Cons:
- More expensive than simple elastic
- Some brands are not durable or cannot regain their shape
Scrunchies
Sometimes you want a larger pop of color and fabric to add texture to your hairstyle. This is where scrunchies come in. Although they don’t go as tight as a traditional hair tie, they can hold larger styles like ponytails and bubble braids in place.
Scrunchies can also be used to cover other hair ties, and be combined with other hair accessories like bobby pins to stop them from slipping.
Pros:
- Add large pops of color and texture to hairstyles
- Less pulling than standard hair ties
- They can be worn as bracelets when not in use
Cons:
- They’re more expensive than other types of hair ties
- You cannot use them on hairstyles that need stronger grips or smaller spaces
Metal Bar Hair Ties
Some hair ties have a metal bar or band on a section. This is a design that gives extra support to help prolong the life of the elastic or stretchy material. Thicker and longer hair puts more pressure on the hair tie, so hair ties with metal bands may be better for these types of hair. But the metal on the hair tie may cause snags and in some cases breakage.
Pros:
- Great for extending the life of the hair tie
- Works for long and thick hair
Cons:
- The metal can get caught in your hair and cause snags
- Metal may cause additional friction and friction may cause breakage
There are hair ties for just about every hair type and every hair situation. Now you know which ones are right for your hair goals and can pick the best for your hair needs.
