hair pins can make all the difference in maintaining an updo or bun that stays put all day, yet not all are created equal. According to Nielsen, many crafty DIY mavens have used bobby pins to craft geometric forms like triangles and chevrons with them. But while this might look cute in pictures, in real life, such arrangements could come off as too cutesy and can look silly in reality.
How to do it
If you’re using hairpins to secure curls, spraying some hairspray onto the end before sticking it in can give additional grip and prevent your pin from falling out of its position.
Texturizers can help grip your hair and pins, especially for delicate or slippery strands that don’t hold anything together. Apply some texturizer, such as texture spray, salt spray, or volumizer, before using pins.
One way to create a pin-on haircut is to twist your hair into a low ponytail and secure it with a French pin or fork. According to Aquage brand ambassador and celebrity stylist Laura Polko, this method works best on longer locks – as fine or thin hair may not support its weight. Start by locking your locks with a bobby pin as with the hook on top.
Parting your hair
Bobby pins are the most versatile and commonly used type among all the hairpin options. Their compact size and round ends make them easy to use; if your locks lack gripping ability, spray your pins before using them.
U-shaped pins resembling forks can also be an excellent choice since they do not need to be opened and can be used similarly. They’re great for adding texture to a messy bun or top knot!
According to Laura Polko, Aquage brand ambassador, and celebrity hairstylist, you can create a textured look by first creating a ponytail at the nape of your neck (occipital bone) before pinning it with a U-shaped pin and applying hairspray as necessary to ensure its staying power and fresh appearance. You could also create a side or deep side part and follow this method to add structure.
Using a bobby pin
Bobby pins may have been one of the first hair accessories you ever owned (recall pinning your bangs back for soccer/dance/gymnastics), yet they remain underutilized tools in your toolkit. While their tiny and elongated pins might seem straightforward enough to slide in and out without much bother, making the most out of this must-have tool takes practice to maximize its utility.
For optimal use, look for bobby pins made of silicone or rubber to protect from damage and tugging, such as those featured in Got2b(r) Fresh It Up Instant Refresh Dry Shampoo or Beach Trippin Texturizing Finishing Spray by got2b. Use an anti-tangle dry shampoo like Fresh It Up or Beach Trippin Texturizing Finishing Spray before using bobby pins, for an added grip layer.
Many people make the standard error of inserting their pin with its grooved side facing down instead of towards their scalp, creating additional tension and slippage. Grooved pins were meant to hold your hair in place; having them face downward can create extra slippage and tension in your locks.
Getting it right
Spray your hairpin with hairspray before inserting it. Nielsen notes that this helps it grip the hair better and remain in its proper place. Furthermore, wearing your pins creatively, such as crisscrossing them across your forehead or in neat rows, is another excellent way to secure them firmly into place; mastering one trick could open up an array of styling possibilities! Give it a try yourself.
