Read This Before Trying The Ponytail Haircut Method

If you’ve ever entertained the idea of cutting your own hair, you may have caught wind of the ponytail haircut method. This technique, also referred to as the unicorn haircut method, has gone viral as of late and has more and more people reaching for a pair of scissors in favor of giving themselves a big chop. Whether your salon has limited hours or you just want to save on the cost of a regular haircut, you might be tempted to give it a try. Before you dive in, read on to get the scoop on what the ponytail haircut method entails, and find out whether it’s the best method for your next cut.

What Is The Ponytail Haircut Method?

The ponytail haircut method is often used to cut hair at home to create a layered look. The technique involves pulling your dry strands into a high ponytail at the top of your head. Then, the length of the ponytail is brought forward so that it falls in front of your forehead, allowing you to see the ends of your hair in a mirror while you cut them (be sure to rid your pony of any bumps or knots first to ensure that your layers come out precise and the right length). A second hair tie is wrapped around the base of your ponytail, then slid down the length to serve as a marker for where you would like to cut your hair (based on how much you’d like to cut). Some adoptees have even used measuring tape for length precision. Then, you just grab a pair of hair cutting shears and cut along the hair tie for a straight, clean cut. Once the hair ties are removed, you should have a heavily layered haircut.

Should You Try The Ponytail Haircut Method?

If you’re thinking about attempting the ponytail haircut method you have to keep in mind that results will differ based on hair type and length. The technique can be complex, and is best used on long or curly lengths due to its dramatically layered results. If you’re going to try it, be prepared for mistakes and know the hacks for fixing a bad haircut. Consider seeking the hands of a professional stylist, especially if you want a short layered hairstyle.

If you’ve decided that the ponytail haircut method isn’t for you but you’d love a salon-free cut, consider some methods that you can adopt to fake the look of freshly cut strands.

3 Ways To Fake The Appearance of a Fresh Cut

1. Try a Faux Lob

You know what they say—fake it ‘til you make it! You can easily fake the appearance of short strands by styling your mane into a faux lob with the help of bobby pins. For a step-by-step tutorial on how to do just that, check out our article, How To Wear a Faux Lob Hairstyle.

2. Cozy Up To Clip-Ins

If you’re thinking about getting a pixie cut or giving bangs a try, you can trick your loved ones into believing you took the plunge with clip-in hair. Grab one weft of clip-in bangs and easily add it to the front of your hair, or gather your hair to the top of your head and layer wefts of clip-ins to fake a layered pixie. Not a fan of hair clip-ins? Read How To Make Fake Bangs With Your Own Hair for tips on how to fake a fringe with your own hair.

3. Try A Faux Half-Up, Half-Down Look

We love the half-up and half-down look and it’s an easy way to make your strands look shorter without actually chopping them. First smooth out your tresses with the L’Oréal Paris Elvive Dream Lengths Frizz Killer Serum Leave-In. Then gather your hair at the top of your head for a ponytail. Pull your hair all the way through a hair tie, securing it twice. Pull it halfway through for a third time and loop the hair at the top, letting the ends fall in the back for a top-knot and back-fringe look. Finish it with the L’Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle LOCK IT Weather Control Hairspray to keep frizz and flyaways at bay.

Next: 5 Things To Know Before Cutting Your Own Bangs