I don't pull my hair going back period. It's always to the sides. Side part, or middle. I don't use ponytail holders either. Now those elastic hair ties (actual hair ties) seem to be better as well as scrunchies. But you gotta be careful. There is a certain way people gather the hair, and wrap the holder around and you can already hear hair snapping. Also what products do you use to slick your hair back? That's another thing, I just m&s and put a little edge control on my hair line, and use a toothbrush, and comb ( I just glide the side of the teeth) I don't comb through.