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There’s a reason I throw my hair into a bun or ponytail six out of seven days a week—and it’s not because I’m ridiculously lazy (which, like, I am). Nope, it’s ’cause after I’ve worn my hair up even once, I’m left with dents and creases the second I take it down, courtesy of the crazy-tight hair ties I buy in bulk at the drugstore. So when I started seeing my friends walk around with spiral hair ties—the plastic, telephone cord–like elastics that claim to tie back your hair without dents or damage—on their wrists and in their hair, I figured it was maaaaybe time to invest in one. And after trying one out for myself, I’m hooked—and I need you to be too. Ahead, everything you’ve ever wanted to know about spiral hair ties, along with the absolute best ones to buy.

Let’s just get one thing out of the way: If you’re wearing a tight ponytail or bun on the reg, there’s no avoiding the fact that you’re going to experience some form of damage in the long run (whether that’s hair thinning, dents and creases, or, let’s be real, headaches). That said, if you must put your hair up, spiral hair ties—aka coil hair ties—are a gentle alternative to straight-up elastics and rubber bands, thanks to the fact that they don’t wrap too tightly and put noticeably less pressure on your hair.

Got it? Cool, let’s move on to what you really came here for: the best spiral hair ties to try out immediately.

It’s not just a coincidence that Invisibobble’s spiral hair ties are best sellers on Sephora, Ulta, and Amazon—people love that they’re equal parts comfortable and secure, so there’s no need to worry about your high ponytail slipping halfway through the day.

These spiral hair ties from Kitsch basically moonlight as bracelets when you aren’t wearing them in your hair—the pale-pink and light-gray hues are so damn pretty. And might I just mention that $6 gets you a pack of four?

Not sure you’re totally ready to switch over to spiral hair ties? Try out this cute and functional set from Free People, which includes six mismatched hair ties in spiral and mesh designs. Gotta love variety.

Yes, these are holographic spiral hair ties. And, yes, you need them. This pack of six hair ties will give your braided ponytail or bun a pretty—but subtle—touch of color.

Want to try a spiral hair tie but can’t give up your love of scrunchies? No prob. This cute pick looks like your average scrunchie, but under that leopard-print fabric is a spiral hair tie, so you can go easy on your hair without sacrificing ~style~.

These mini spiral hair ties are almost too pretty to wear. Each set comes with eight coils in super-wearable hues (think: gold, pale yellow, pink, and clear), so you get plenty of options for your $$$.

If you’re looking for a classic, wear-every-day hair tie, you’ll love this pack of eight crystal-clear spirals. IMO, these coil hair ties are super ideal for the gym.

There’s no getting around it: Spiral hair ties are chunky. If you aren’t into thick hair ties, try out these ultra-slim coils from Urban Outfitters. Layer ’em or wear them solo in a messy bun—you can’t really go wrong.

Since hair accessories are, like, ridiculously easy to lose, I’ll personally be buying this 20 pack of spiral hair ties. So, if you need to borrow a hair tie, you know who to ask.