I have tried hair elastics similar to these before. I picked them up from Target and I wasn't impressed with those and they were bland. The ones that I received from Elastic Hair Bandz on Etsy are AMAZING. I have thick curly hair and I find that normal hair elastics don't hold they snap easily and they hurt. I was very pleased when I received these in the mail and I immediately threw out my hair elastic that was holding my hair up because not only are these INCREDIBLY CUTE! they are also effective. My head felt so much better after wearing these. I even put my daughters hair up in a fun bun :) she normally throws a fit when I put her hair up (sensitive scalp) as well. They are very cost effective too. No matter the age these make fantastic stocking stuffers. Elastic Hair Bandz prices start at $1.25 they make hair elastics, headbands etc. She even has a DIY option in her shop. If you purchase the supplies you can make them yourself.