C.O. Bigelow – The Oldest Apothecary in America – Established 1838

Scrunchie Hairstyles: 10 Easy Ways to Style Your Hair with a Scrunchie

Scrunchie Hairstyles: 10 Easy Ways to Style Your Hair with a Scrunchie

By C.O. Bigelow – The Oldest Apothecary in America – Established 1838 | Published: 2026-07-31

Category: How-to Guides

Discover 10 chic and practical scrunchie hairstyles for long hair, curly hair, and everything in between. From buns to ponytails, learn how to style with a scrunchie without damaging your strands.

The humble scrunchie has made a major comeback, and for good reason. Unlike tight elastic bands that can cause breakage and leave creases, scrunchies are gentle on your strands, making them a favorite among hair care enthusiasts. Whether you have long, flowing locks or bouncy curls, there's a scrunchie hairstyle that's both stylish and protective.

In this guide, we'll explore ten versatile scrunchie hairstyles that you can easily recreate at home. From sleek ponytails to effortless buns and trendy half-up styles, you'll learn how to use a scrunchie to elevate your look while keeping your hair healthy. Plus, we'll share tips on choosing the right scrunchie for your hair type and how to avoid common mistakes.

Why Scrunchies Are Better for Your Hair

Scrunchies are not just a fashion statement; they are a hair care essential. Traditional hair ties with metal or plastic connectors can snag and pull at your hair, leading to split ends and breakage. Scrunchies, on the other hand, are typically made from soft fabric like silk or velvet, which reduces friction and minimizes damage. They also distribute tension more evenly, so you can wear them all day without discomfort.

For those with fine or fragile hair, using a scrunchie can be a game-changer. It allows you to secure your hair without putting excessive stress on the roots. Even for thick or curly hair, scrunchies provide a secure hold without leaving harsh creases. Plus, they come in a variety of colors and textures, making them a fun accessory to express your personal style.

Scrunchie Hairstyles for Long Hair

Long hair offers endless possibilities when it comes to scrunchie hairstyles. One of the simplest yet most elegant options is the classic high ponytail. To achieve a sleek look, brush your hair back and gather it at the crown of your head, then secure with a scrunchie. For a more polished appearance, you can wrap a small section of hair around the base to hide the scrunchie.

Another favorite is the low ponytail, which exudes sophistication and is perfect for work or formal events. Simply gather your hair at the nape of your neck and secure with a scrunchie. To add a touch of glamour, leave out two face-framing strands and curl them lightly. This style works beautifully with the Bond Building Shampoo - 8.5 oz and Heavyweight Conditioner, which help strengthen and nourish long hair.

Heavyweight Conditioner
Heavyweight Conditioner
  • Use a silk or satin scrunchie to prevent friction and reduce frizz.
  • For a voluminous ponytail, lightly tease the crown before securing.
  • Wrap a strand of hair around the scrunchie to hide it for a polished look.

Scrunchie Buns: From Messy to Chic

The scrunchie bun is a go-to style for busy days when you want to look put-together without much effort. The messy bun is a classic: gather your hair into a high ponytail, then twist and wrap it around the base, securing with a scrunchie. Leave a few strands loose for a relaxed, carefree vibe.

For a more polished updo, try a sleek low bun. Start by smoothing your hair back into a low ponytail, then twist and coil it into a bun, securing with a scrunchie. This style is perfect for formal occasions and pairs beautifully with the Classic Face Lotion, which keeps your skin hydrated and glowing as you focus on your hair.

Scrunchie Ponytails: Sleek, High, and Everything In Between

Ponytails are a versatile choice, and the type of scrunchie you use can change the entire look. For a sleek, high ponytail, use a scrunchie that matches your hair color to create a seamless effect. For a more playful look, choose a brightly colored or patterned scrunchie to make a statement.

If you have curly or textured hair, a ponytail with a scrunchie can help define your curls and reduce frizz. Gently gather your curls into a loose ponytail and secure with a scrunchie, allowing some curls to frame your face. This style works well with the Curl Butter Mask, which deeply conditions and enhances curl definition.

Half-Up Styles with a Scrunchie

The half-up, half-down style is a crowd-pleaser because it offers the best of both worlds: the elegance of an updo with the flow of loose hair. To create this look, take a section of hair from the top of your head, from ear to ear, and gather it into a ponytail at the crown. Secure with a scrunchie and let the rest of your hair hang loose.

For a boho-chic vibe, you can add a braid to the half-up section before securing it with a scrunchie. This style looks great on both straight and curly hair. To keep your hair healthy and shiny, consider using the Thickening Plumping Mask - 6.7 oz once a week to add volume and strength.

Scrunchie Updos for Special Occasions

When you need an elegant updo for a wedding, party, or date night, a scrunchie can be your secret weapon. Start with a low ponytail, then twist the hair into a chignon and secure with a scrunchie. You can also create a braided updo by braiding the ponytail before wrapping it into a bun.

For a more intricate look, try a twisted updo: divide your hair into two sections, twist each, and wrap them around each other before securing with a scrunchie. These styles are not only beautiful but also protect your hair from environmental damage. Pair your look with the Eau de Parfum - Vanilla Salt for a subtle, alluring scent.

Scrunchie Hairstyles for Curly Hair

Curly hair requires special care, and scrunchies are ideal because they won't disrupt your curl pattern or cause frizz. A pineapple ponytail is a popular protective style: flip your head upside down, gather all your curls into a high ponytail at the top of your head, and secure with a scrunchie. This keeps curls intact while you sleep or go about your day.

Another great option is the curly half-up style. Take the top section of your curls and secure them with a scrunchie, allowing the rest to flow freely. This adds volume and definition. To enhance your natural curls, use the Happy Medium Shampoo and a leave-in conditioner to keep them hydrated and bouncy.

Tips for Choosing the Right Scrunchie

Not all scrunchies are created equal. When shopping for scrunchies, consider the material: silk or satin is best for preventing friction and reducing frizz, while velvet adds a touch of luxury. The size of the scrunchie also matters: larger scrunchies are great for thick or curly hair, while smaller ones work well for fine hair.

Also, pay attention to the elastic inside. A good scrunchie should have a strong but gentle elastic that doesn't pull too tightly. If you have long hair, you might prefer a scrunchie with a larger diameter to wrap around multiple times. And don't forget to match the color to your outfit or hair color for a cohesive look.

Common Scrunchie Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake is using a scrunchie that is too tight, which can cause tension and breakage. Make sure the scrunchie is snug but not pulling at your roots. Another mistake is wearing a scrunchie in the same spot every day, which can cause stress on that area. Vary your hairstyles to distribute tension evenly.

Also, avoid using a scrunchie on wet hair, as this can lead to breakage. Always ensure your hair is dry or damp (not soaking wet) before styling. Finally, don't forget to give your hair a break: wearing your hair down or in loose styles allows your scalp to breathe and reduces the risk of damage.

Scrunchies are a versatile and hair-friendly accessory that can transform any hairstyle. Whether you're going for a sleek ponytail, a messy bun, or a curly updo, there's a scrunchie technique for you. Experiment with different styles and find what works best for your hair type. And don't forget to care for your hair with quality products like the Thickening Plumping Mask - 6.7 oz to keep it strong and healthy. Now, go ahead and embrace the scrunchie trend with confidence!

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