8 Ways to Use Bobby Pins For Hair + Tips & Tricks

Bobby pins are among the most underrated tools for hair styling - they are small, but can completely transform a simple hairdo into a modern and elegant hairstyle, all while keeping your hair strands tight and secured in one place.

In this article, we will talk about all things bobby pins - including some awesome ways to use bobby pins for your hair, and what are some of the biggest tips and tricks that you should keep in mind while using bobby pins to style your hair. So, without further ado, let's jump right into it!

 

What are bobby pins?

So, what are bobby pins in the first place?

Bobby pins, also known as hair clips or hair slides, are small, U-shaped hair accessories that can be used to hold hair in place and hide flyaways. They usually have one end being open and the other curved to create the "U" shape. The curved end is typically the side used to secure the hair in place.

Bobby pins for hair come in different designs and colors - from simple and discreet ones that you can blend with your hair color and style in a way that makes them almost invisible, to beautiful and sophisticated pins that are designed to add accent to your hairstyle and level it up.

How to use bobby pins for hair

Even though they are very small, you would be surprised with the amount of versatility they offer! If you are wondering how to use or wear bobby pins, here are just some of the functionalities they have:

1. Securing updos 

They are your biggest ally when it comes to holding hair in place, especially when creating easy hair updos like buns or French twists. All you need to do is gather your hair, twist it into the desired shape, and slide the bobby pin horizontally to secure it.

For maximum performance, grab your Freeze Please finishing hairspray, and your updo will stay in place all day long! 

2. Creating half-up hairstyles 

Looking for a stylish and modern hairstyle without much effort? Bobby pins are a great way to create half-up hairstyles. 

All you need to do is gather the top section of your hair and secure it at the back of your head with bobby pins, leaving the rest of your hair down.

3. Hiding bangs or layers 

If you are growing out your bangs, or keep getting frustrated with shorter layers that won't stay in one place (we feel you!), don't worry - bobby pins can be a great tool for pinning them back discreetly.

4. Adding volume

If you want to get your hair volumized, you will be surprised how effective bobby pins for hair can be for this goal.

Gather small sections of hair at the crown, tease them gently, and use bobby pins to secure the teased sections in place. This will create a wonderful lifted volume.

5. Creating braided hairstyles

These tiny, but powerful hair accessories can also help secure the ends of braids or keep braids in place if they start to unravel.

6. Concealing hair elastics

Bobby pins for hair can also be used to hide the hair elastic when you are going for certain hairstyles such as ponytails and buns. Simply slide them over the elastic and into the hair.

7. Decorative elements

And of course, let's not forget about one of the most fun, but often underrated uses of hair clips and bobby pins for hair - they can add a stunning touch to your hairstyle as a decorative element.

They are undoubtedly a very easy and stylish way to glam up for any event!

8. Taming flyaways

These beautiful accessories are also a great way to tame flyaway hairs and keep them in place for a sleek look.

Of course, keep in mind that bobby pins are not a permanent fix for flyaways. If you are looking for a long-term solution to frizz and flyaways, we highly recommend adding the NuMe Clout Control Anti-Frizz Hairspray to your hair care routine. 

Bobby pins for hair: tips & tricks 

• Did you know that the wavy side of the pin always faces your scalp? Yes, we know, this is completely life-changing! 
• Spray the pin (or the section of hair) with a dry shampoo like the NuMe Fresh N' Fab Dry Shampoo or a hairspray like the NuMe Hottie Alert Shine Spray before doing any pinning.
• Make sure the pin is taut and not flimsy, with a strong clamp that snaps back easily. If you pull the two prongs of the pin apart and they stay separated, you have a poor quality bobby pin.
• To hide pins more easily, use ones that match your hair color. Of course, that is unless you want to use them as a decorative element - in that case, look for options with unique designs that highlight the beauty of your hairstyle.
• When using pins to secure the hair (and not just adorn it), point the pin in the opposite direction of where the hair is going. For example, to pin a twisted section, insert it into the hair with the pin's wavy side up, then twist it under in the opposite direction with the wavy side down. Citytv has a great demo of this technique here.
• For more super easy-to-follow bobby pin hairstyle hacks, check out this YouTube video from beauty influencer, Milabu.

5 fun styles with bobby pins

1. Chevron, Criss-Cross or Stacked Sections

Add some flair to a sleek straight look by creating a chevron, criss-cross or stacked pattern of bobby pins across one side section, or around your crown.

To achieve the base for this look, prep wet hair with the NuMe Sleeky In A Bottle Serum then after blow drying, spray with Watch Me Werk Thermal Heat Protectant and straighten with the Megastar Hair Straightener.

2. Half Up-Half Down Triangle-in-the-Back

A fun twist for hair that's been freshly curled with the NuMe Curling Wand, rather than securing the top section of hair in the back with an elastic or barrette, use bobby pins to form a triangle.

It will just involve pulling three parts to the back, one from the top front of the hairline and one from each side.

3. Half Up-Half Down High Pony/Bun Pinned-Down-on-the-Crown

This look is key for when you want the half pony to take center stage. While doable for any length of texture, it's really fun for hair that's long and thick.

For maximum volume, start with a root lifter like NuMe Root Werk Root Lifter before drying and then when hair is dry, maximize waves with NuMe Magic Curling Wand (32 mm barrel).

Secure the high pony/bun top with an elastic and pin down the hairs just behind the hairline with the bobby pins—you can get creative with directions and styles!

4. Twist Buns...SO Many Types of Twist Buns

As long as you have plenty of bobby pins and hairspray like our Hair-Fie Ready Finishing and Shine Hairspray, you can go to town on bun styles.

Just remember, to insert, twist and point the pin in the opposite direction if you really want the strands to stay secure.

5. Hashtag Bobby

Create hashtag symbols with bobby pins. It looks cool in any shape or style. Again, just make sure you've got high-quality pins and plenty of hairspray. #hair is the goal.

These are just a few of many unique and cute updos you can create with bobby pins (now that you know the basics of using them, yay), whether your hair is short, long, curly, or straight.

For more inspiration, search #bobbypins and #bobbypinhairstyles on Instagram and be sure to follow us for more product recommendations and how-to hair tutorials @NuMeHair. Sign up for our newsletter at NuMehair.com for hair tips and exclusive offers.

FAQ

Are bobby pins OK for hair?

Yes, bobby pins are safe for hair when used properly. Avoid pulling or tugging too hard, and opt for high-quality pins to prevent damage.

Is it safe to use bobby pins for wigs?

Using bobby pins on wigs is generally safe, but be gentle to avoid damaging the wig's fibers. Secure the wig with care to prevent any pulling or tearing.

How do you get bobby pins to stay in fine hair?

To get bobby pins to stay in fine hair, try these tips: 1) Use matte bobby pins, as they provide better grip. 2) Spray pins with hairspray for added hold. 3) Insert them flat against the scalp or in a crisscross pattern for better stability.

What is the difference between a hair pin and a bobby pin?

A hair pin is a long, U-shaped pin used to hold hairstyles in place, offering a light hold ideal for updos. In contrast, a bobby pin has a tight grip with one straight side and one wavy side, designed to secure hair close to the scalp, making it versatile for various hairstyles.

Is it bad to wear bobby pins?

Wearing bobby pins is generally safe for your hair. However, frequent or improper use can lead to breakage or damage, especially if they're too tight or used on wet hair.

It's important to use them correctly and give your hair a break from them regularly to avoid any adverse effects.

Why do bobby pins never stay in?

Bobby pins often slip out due to incorrect placement, smooth texture, or not matching the hair's thickness.

To improve grip, use the wavy side against your scalp, ensure they're not too wide for your hair type, and use additional pins for thicker or heavier sections of hair.

When should you throw away bobby pins?

You should discard bobby pins when they lose their shape, become too loose to hold hair effectively, or if the tips wear off, exposing the metal, which can snag or damage your hair.

Regularly inspecting and maintaining your bobby pins helps prevent hair damage and ensures effective use.

Author: Mary Patterson Broome