In the world of hair accessories, the debate between elastic hair ties and fabric ties often mirrors classic style clashes like flats versus heels or silver versus gold. Yet, when it comes to securing ponytails that are both tight and comfortable, the choice becomes more than a matter of aesthetics. Whether you choose scrunchies or more streamlined hair ties can significantly impact your hair health.
When it comes to keeping ponytails tight without damaging your hair, not all kinds of ties will do the job. Some people prefer the softness of scrunchies which don’t pull or snag, while others need the strength of elastic ties that can handle the weight and volume of their hair.
This complete guide aims to help you choose the best option for your hair needs. Whether you are prepping for a casual day out or a formal event, picking the right type of tie can elevate your look and protect your hair.
Elastic Hair Ties: An Overview
Elastic hair ties, also commonly known as hair elastics, elastic ties, ponytail holders, or elastic bands, are the go-to hair accessories for many. These simple loops of elasticized rubber, sometimes combined with metal, are designed to tie up your hair in various colors and thicknesses securely.
Despite their ability to keep even the most unruly hairstyles in place, they have a downside. These accessories can be harsh on your locks and can cause breakage so they should be used carefully to minimize damage.
Fabric Hair Ties aka Scrunchies: An Overview
Fabric hair ties, also known as scrunchies, are the softer, gentler cousins to traditional elastic hair ties. Invented in the 1960s and soaring to widespread popularity in the ’80s and ’90s, scrunchies have made a significant resurgence in recent years. These beloved hair accessories are crafted by sewing stretchy fabric—like cotton, velvet, satin, or silk—around an elastic band, creating a fluffy, gathered, and voluminous tie that offers a stylish flair to any hairdo.
They are designed to hold hair in place more gently, reducing friction and breakage. With their playful decorations and pop of color and texture, scrunchies are a versatile and fashionable choice for hair types and personal styles, available in various sizes, colors, and textures.
So What’s the Difference Between Both of Them?
Hold and Grip
Elastic hair ties are designed to provide a stronghold. They can be looped multiple times to grip strands tighter, ensuring your hairstyle remains intact and secure even during high-intensity workouts or a long day at work. Thanks to their ability to stretch and snap back to their original size, they don’t lose shape after a few uses.
On the other hand, fabric hair ties, such as scrunchies, are gentler and more comfortable to wear, but they might not hold your hair as tightly as elastic hair ties. This could be a problem for those with thick, heavy hair who need a super-secure ponytail. They are not ideal for more vigorous activities, as they may not offer the necessary support, causing hair to become loose or messy.
Affordability and Cost
Elastic hair ties are usually super cheap and more affordable than scrunchies, which makes them an excellent choice for those on a budget. You can stock up on various hair ties for different occasions without breaking the bank. Their lower price point allows you to experiment with different colors, styles, and sizes, ensuring you always have the perfect hair tie on hand for any situation.
Conversely, scrunchies tend to be more expensive, especially when they are made with high-quality materials. This higher price point can make them less accessible to some people.
Appropriate For
Elastic hair ties are specifically designed for thick hair, featuring wider, more durable bands with stronger elasticity to hold hair securely in place. They are a great choice for anyone engaging in physical activity, such as a workout or a long day at work, ensuring that even the thickest hair remains intact and secure.
Conversely, scrunchies are the best option for those with light, delicate, curly, wavy, or coily hair. They may not provide the same level of hold as elastic hair ties, which could be a problem for people with thick, heavy hair who need a stronghold to keep their hair in place during vigorous activities.
Hair Damage
One of the main disadvantages of elastic hair ties is the potential damage they can cause. Their tight grip necessary to secure thick hair often leads to breakage, split ends, and overall hair weakening. If worn frequently, especially when wrapped without fabric, they can snag or pull hair, causing massive dents and further damage.
In contrast, fabric hair ties, are crafted from soft and smooth materials. They protect the hair from being yanked out or snagged. Their gentle grip and fabric covering create less friction and tension, making them a perfect choice to minimize damage and avoid breakage and dents.
Hair Tangling
Elastic hair ties, particularly those made from rubber or thinner materials, can sometimes become entangled in thick hair. This issue is particularly problematic for individuals with curly or coarse hair. The texture of these ties makes hair more prone to tangling.
On the other hand, Scrunchies, often made with smooth fabric like silk, significantly reduce friction between the hair tie and the hair. This helps prevent knots and is particularly helpful for people with long or curly hair who are prone to tangling.
Overall Bulky and Substantial Look
Elastic hair ties are smaller, less noticeable, and have a low-profile design that blends seamlessly with your hair, offering a sleek and polished look that is ideal for those who prefer a minimalist and discreet look.
While Scrunchies, due to their larger size and the fabric used in their construction, can feel bulky and take up more space than elastic hair ties. This makes them less convenient to carry in a purse, bag, or pocket, and may not be the ideal choice for those who need a compact and easily portable hair accessory.
Longevity and Maintenance
Elastic ties, made from stretchy materials like rubber or silicone, are significantly more durable than scrunchies. They can withstand repeated use and exposure to water or sweat without losing their grip or stretching out quickly, making them a long-lasting investment for those who frequently rely on them to keep thick hair in place.
Conversely, scrunchies, especially those made with delicate materials like silk or satin, may not be as durable. The fabric can wear out, fade, or become frayed with regular use, and the elastic inside the scrunchie can lose its elasticity over time, affecting the overall effectiveness of the hair accessory and requiring more frequent replacement.
Absorbancy
The material of elastic hair ties are made up of wool or stretchy cotton fabric which posses low absorbancy ability so it absorb less oil, sweat and products hence less smelly. While fabric hair ties composed of silk/satin fabric having high absorbancy hence it can soak up more oil, sweat and buildup from hair and cause smell if you dont clean it appropriately.
Comfort Toward Scalp
When it comes to comfort on the scalp, fabric hair ties, such as scrunchies, are often seen as more comfortable. Unlike tight, elastic hair ties that can exert pressure and lead to discomfort, headaches, and even pain for those with sensitive scalp.
Fabric hair ties do not cause such issues. They are gentle because they don’t hold the hair with a tight grip, making them ideal for wear at night to prevent hair breakage and damage while sleeping.
Ponytail Dent
When you frequently tie your hair in a ponytail or bun using elastic hair ties, you might notice a visible bump or indentation once you let your hair down. This bump is often difficult to remove, especially if the hair has been compressed in the same position repeatedly. It’s frustrating when you prefer a smooth, bump-free hairstyle.
Fabric hair ties, on the other hand, do not create these creases in your hair. They are a better option for people who frequently change their hairstyles throughout the day or those who want to let their hair down after a long day without an unsightly dent that traditional hair ties often leave behind.
Versatility in Styling
Elastic hair ties offer a wide variety of hairstyles, including ponytails, braids, buns, and twists. Their versatility makes them an ideal choice for those with thick, heavy hair who need a single accessory that can accommodate diverse styling requirements for both casual and formal styles.
On the other hand, scrunchies bring an element of fun to hair accessories. They come in a range of styles, from classic velvet to prints and patterns, offering plenty of options to choose from. Some even include embellishments like beads, sequins, or bows, adding an extra touch of flair to any hairstyle.
Which One is More Appropriate For You?
Consider Your Hair Health
When choosing between a scrunchie and a hair tie, consider the current condition of your hair. If you have fine, damaged hair that’s prone to breakage, it’s better for your hair health to steer clear of elastic ties as much as possible. Fabric hair ties play a significant role here as they are less likely to cause damage.
Your Desired Hairstyle
Elastic hair ties are better for more sleek, tight styles where a firm hold is necessary, like high ponytails, braids, or to keep hair out of your face during workouts. They lend themselves well to active or polished looks.
In contrast, Scrunchies are great for creating looser, more relaxed hairstyles such as messy buns and ponytails. They add volume and can be a stylish statement piece, doubling as a cute wrist accessory. This makes them well-suited for those who prefer a gentler hold and a playful look.
Consider Your Daily Activities
When choosing between elastics and scrunchies, think about your daily activities. Elastics are an excellent choice during sports or other strenuous activities where you need to keep hair off your face. They hold securely and prevent distractions.
However, scrunchies are often a less desirable choice in these situations because they might slip. In certain non-active settings, scrunchies win over elastics because they are gentler on the hair and add a touch of style.
Keep In Mind Your Hair Texture
Elastic hair ties are more suitable for straight, thick hair texture as it require more firm grip and support give your sleek and stylish look.
While if you have curly/wavy hair it is more appropriate to choose fabric ties as it is more gentle toward your delicate curls and keep your hair from ponytail dent and also give you a chic and stylish look. They must be designed to minimize frizz and reduce the risk of tangling. The right hair ties complement hair texture while allowing you to achieve a secure, comfortable hold without compromising your hair’s health.
Keep Experimenting
Different hair ties come in various materials like cotton, velvet, satin, rubber, and fabric-covered elastics, each with unique benefits and drawbacks. Your hair type and styling needs determine the best choice. Satin scrunchies or silk scrunchies feel gentler and retain moisture, while rubber hair ties and silicone hair ties offer a secure grip for active lifestyles. Keep trying different options to find what works best for you.
Closing Words
Scrunchies and elastic hair ties each hold their place as common styling accessories. Elastic hair ties tend to provide a tighter, more secure hold due to their rubber band design, making them ideal for activities that require keeping hair neatly out of the face. On the other hand, scrunchies, made with soft fabrics and gentle elastics, are less likely to pull on the hair or cause breakage, promoting better hair health. It’s always good to switch things up, depending on your hair type and the style you aim to achieve.
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