Even Scrunchies made a line of damage that I could see as I grew out my hair. I found my hair is much healthier avoiding ponytails and putting it all the way up. (I have grown it out to calf length now) It also stay out of the way better when working out and is safer around tools or fires. My all time favourite implement for putting up my hair is a Ficcare Maximus. They are metal and enamel. The one I am currently wearing is nearly 20 years old now, but I have newer ones too and they are still just as BIFL worthy.