Ponytail extensions – how to choose, attach and care for a clip-in ponytail

A ponytail extension gives you a long, thick ponytail in under a minute, with no tape, glue or salon visit. You make a regular ponytail from your own hair and attach the extension around it, either with a clip or by wrapping it around. Here we go through the types available, how to choose your shade, how to attach it so it stays put all day and how to care for it.

What is a ponytail extension?

A ponytail extension is a ready-made ponytail of extension hair that you attach to your own ponytail. It's also called a clip-in ponytail, clip-on ponytail, hair piece ponytail or claw clip ponytail. There are three common ways to attach it:

Type	How it attaches	Best for
Claw clip ponytail	A claw clip grips your own ponytail	A quick, high and full ponytail
Wrap-around	Wraps around your ponytail and is secured with a strand of hair	A sleek, low ponytail where the attachment shouldn't show
Ponytail with comb or drawstring	A comb or drawstring under your own hair tie	Those with plenty of their own hair to attach it to

You'll find all our models under ponytail extensions.

Which ponytail suits you?

Our ponytails were developed by hairdressers and are in place in less than a minute. The difference lies in size and attachment:

• Tangled Ponyo – a clip-in ponytail with a claw clip. 35 cm of curly hair, 90 grams of vegan synthetic fibre that holds its shape. Our most popular choice for a full, high ponytail.
• Tangled Mini Ponyo – a smaller version with a clip. Perfect if you want more volume in a smaller ponytail, or a more natural everyday look.
• Tangled Ponyo Swirl – a wrap-around ponytail, 105 grams, that wraps around your own ponytail. No visible clip, so it's perfect with a sleek slick-back.

Clip or wrap-around? The clip is the quickest and most secure, and the easiest the first time. A wrap-around gives the most seamless attachment and works best when your hair is pulled tightly back.

How to attach a clip-in ponytail

1. Brush your hair back and make a firm ponytail at the height you want. Use a sturdy hair tie.
2. Twist the ponytail into a small bun and secure it with a thin hair tie or a couple of bobby pins. The bun gives the clip something to grip.
3. Open the clip and place it over the bun. Press together until it's secure.
4. Hide the attachment by taking a thin strand of extension hair or your own hair, wrapping it around and securing it with a bobby pin.
5. Shape the ponytail with your fingers. Gently pull at the sides for more volume.

How to attach a wrap-around ponytail

1. Make a firm, sleek ponytail and secure it with a hair tie.
2. Place the extension against your ponytail and wrap it around your own ponytail.
3. Secure the strand so it covers the hair tie completely.
4. Push a couple of bobby pins through the attachment if you're going to dance or work out.

Find the right shade

Match the shade to the lengths of your hair, not the roots. Look in daylight, ideally by a window. Torn between two shades? Choose the lighter one for a beautiful ombre effect. If you have highlights or balayage, a mix shade usually works best. Not sure? Send us a photo via contact us and our hairdressers will help you choose.

Synthetic or human hair?

Synthetic hair keeps its shape and curls even after a long day, copes better with rain and is easier to care for. It suits you if you want your ponytail to look the same every time. Human hair can be styled with heat tools but needs more care so it doesn't dry out. Tangled Ponyo is made from synthetic hair. See each product page for material and care advice.

Styling ideas

• High sleek ponytail: comb your hair smoothly back with a little gel and choose Ponyo Swirl for a seamless attachment.
• Everyday and work: a low Mini Ponyo at the nape adds volume without looking overdone.
• Parties and weddings: a high Ponyo with a strand wrapped around the attachment. Secure with a few extra bobby pins.
• Workouts: a high, tight clip-in ponytail, secured with two crossed bobby pins.

Prefer your hair up in a bun? Read the guide to hair extension scrunchies or see our hair extension scrunchies.

Adapt it to your hair type

• Fine hair: place the ponytail slightly lower, where your hair is thickest, and twist the bun tightly. Mini Ponyo has a built-in net that hides your own hair.
• Short hair: if your hair is long enough for a small ponytail, it's long enough for a ponytail extension. Pin up any pieces that don't reach.
• Thick hair: choose a full-size Ponyo so the extension isn't thinner than your own hair.
• Curly hair: choose a shade that matches the lightest and darkest parts of your curls, and scrunch lightly to blend the textures.

How to care for your ponytail extension

• Detangle gently with your fingers or a wide-tooth comb. Start at the ends and work your way up.
• Wash when needed, for example when it feels heavy with styling products. Use lukewarm water and a mild shampoo.
• Let it air dry without twisting or rubbing, and shape it with your fingers while it dries.
• Store it in a bag or on a hook so it doesn't get tangled.
• Don't sleep in it. Friction against the pillow is the most common cause of tangles.

Common problems and solutions

• The ponytail slides down: the ponytail underneath is too loose. Make a firmer bun and push two crossed bobby pins through the attachment.
• The attachment shows: wrap a thin strand around the clip or switch to a wrap-around.
• The shade stands out: try a darker shade or a mix shade. You have a 14-day right of withdrawal on unused products, read more under cancel your purchase.
• It feels heavy: place the ponytail lower so the weight is better distributed.

Frequently asked questions

How long does a ponytail extension stay in?

All day, as long as your own ponytail underneath is secure. A couple of bobby pins keep it in place even when you work out or dance.

Can I put it on myself?

Yes. Once you've done it a couple of times it takes less than a minute. You need a hair tie, a few bobby pins and a brush.

Will a clip-in ponytail damage my hair?

No, not if you take it off before you sleep and don't pull your own ponytail too tight. It sits on your ponytail, not at the scalp.

How is it different from tape-in extensions?

A ponytail is something you put on and take off yourself the same day. Tape-in extensions stay in for 6–8 weeks and add length when your hair is down. Compare every method in our guide hair extensions – prices and methods.

Summary

A ponytail extension is the quickest way to get a long, thick ponytail. Choose a clip if you want it easy and secure, and a wrap-around if the attachment mustn't show. Match the shade to your lengths in daylight and always attach it to a firm bun. See every model under ponytail extensions.