Creating an Ariana Grande ponytail gives your hairstyle instant lift, shine, and star power. This look works for casual days, performances, and red-carpet moments.
Use this structured guide to shape the height, smoothness, and volume that define her signature style.
Tools and Prep Summary
| Tool | Purpose | Suggested Option | Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heat Protectant | Shields hair from damage | Spray or cream | Apply before any blow-drying or flat iron |
| Round Brush | Smooths and adds bend | Medium boar bristle | Use with blow dryer for sleek roots |
| Velcro Rollers | Builds crown volume | Extra large, 4–6 pieces | Set with heat for long-lasting lift |
| Fine-Tooth Comb | Creates clean part and sections | Metal or sturdy plastic | Helps keep the center part precise |
| High-Gel Hairspray | Locks height and sleekness | Strong hold, humidity resistant | Light mist from 30 cm, then smooth with brush |
Perfect the Base with Blowout Techniques
Start on clean, product-free hair. Apply a heat protectant and part your hair down the center using a fine-tooth comb.
Section your hair into top, middle, and lower layers. Use a round brush while blow-drying each section, aiming the nozzle downward to smooth the cuticle and boost shine.
Add Lift with Rollers or Velcro Methods
Option 1: Velcro Rollers for Height
Divide the crown section into small panels. Roll each section up to the roots on extra-large Velcro rollers, secure, and apply medium heat for 10–15 minutes. Remove gently; this creates a subtle bump that anchors the ponytail.
Option 2: Cool-Set Method
After blow-drying, wrap mid-lengths to ends around a curling wand and clip at the bottom. Let the ends cool, then brush them out for a soft bend while keeping the roots flat for maximum height.
Smooth Finish and Secure Placement
Gently brush all hair back toward the crown, keeping tension near the roots to maintain lift. Use a fine-tooth comb to check for any bumps or flyaways along the hairline.
Once the sides and back lie flat, secure the ponytail with an elastic band just above the crown. Mist high-hold hairspray evenly over the ponytail and lightly smooth the surface for a polished finish.
Fix Frizz and Shape the Sides
Lightly mist a smoothing serum onto your palms and glide them over the outer edges of the ponytail to tame frizz. Avoid heavy products on the roots to preserve height.
If the sides appear puffy, use a flat iron on low heat with minimal passes. Keep your movements slow and straight to avoid crimping the sleek silhouette Ariana Grande is known for.
Master the Signature Ariana Grande Ponytail
- Always apply heat protectant before using hot tools to maintain hair health.
- Build crown volume with rollers or targeted blow-drying for long-lasting height.
- Comb the hair into a precise center part for a balanced, polished look.
- Secure the ponytail above the crown with a firm elastic band.
- Smooth the surface with strong-hold hairspray and finish with a light serum to control frizz.
FAQ
Reader questions
How do I keep the ponytail from drooping by midday?
Set the roots with Velcro rollers or a hooded dryer before styling, and use a high-hold, humidity-resistant hairspray to lock the lift in place.
Can I do this on shorter layers without losing height?
Yes; focus on building volume at the crown with targeted blow-drying and light padding at the roots, then smooth the shorter layers around the face for a controlled shape.
What products help prevent frizz without weighing the hair down?
Use a lightweight smoothing serum on the lengths and a humidity-blocking spray on the mid-shaft to ends, avoiding heavy creams at the roots.
Is it better to use a straightener or curling wand for this style?
A small curling wand helps shape the ends and adds movement, while a straightener gives a sharper, more severe line; choose based on how much bend you want around your face.