How to Use Bobby Pins for Every Hair Length, Type and Texture

Sure, bobby pins are that one hair staple (next to hair ties) that we all have in our collection. Or—if you're like many of us—you have bobby pins randomly scattered around your house and car (no shame!). It's also one the most nostalgic of hair accessories ever since we've been pinning back our hair for dance recitals, gymnastic meets, and school dances.

But even though our history with bobby pins goes way back, that doesn't mean we actually know how to use bobby pins correctly. It's no wonder that our bobby pins were always sliding and falling out, so much so that we had to compensate by putting in ten too many. Though in our defense, it's not like there ever was a masterclass for this stuff.

That is, until now! Inspired by Cosmo, we've covered all you need to know on how to use bobby pins below because it's never too late to learn how to use this number one hair accessory. Whether you have long hair, short hair, thin hair, or straight hair, bobby pins are guaranteed to be your hair BFF after this quick crash course.

What you'll find in this article:

• What's the right way to use a bobby pin?
• How do you ensure your bobby pins stay in place?
• Bobby pin tips for thin, fine hair
• Bobby pin tips for thick hair
• How to use bobby pins in curly hair for more texture and interest
• Bobby pin hairstyles for short hair

What's the right way to use a bobby pin?

In our blog post "5 Life-Changing Bobby Pin Tricks," we detailed the number one most important bobby pin rule for ultimate staying power—placing your bobby pin in the right way. And yes, there is a right way!

Though most of us have gone throughout our lives thinking that the bumpy side of the bobby pin goes on top, or we just randomly grab one and place it wherever there is a tried-and-true method for placing your bobby pins.

Every time you use a bobby pin, it's vital that the bumpy side is down when you place it in your hair. The flat part of the bobby pin should be the side on top; that way, the bumpy side can create a firm grip along the hair and scalp.

How do you ensure your bobby pins stay in place?

Okay, so now that you have your bobby pin in place, how do you ensure it stays where it is? Here are a few pro tips:

The weaving method

Bobby pins work best when they are woven under and over the hair strands as you're placing them in. This gives the bobby pin more strength and structure to hold on to.

The bobby buddy system

Bobby pins love the buddy system! Here's how you do it. Start with one bobby pin coming from the left side and the other coming from the right. You'll then weave or crisscross them together to create an interlocked X shape.

Spray bobby pins for extra hold

Our bobby pins are double-coated and have a non-slip grip for all-day hold, so they're less slippery than traditional bobby pins. But if you want to ensure that your bobby pins stay put no matter what, try spraying them with dry shampoo for extra grip. Spray just a bit to the inside of the pin to make them wiggle-proof.

If you don't have dry shampoo, spraying a touch of salt spray, texturizing spray, or volumizing powder can also do the trick!

The Flip: an over/under method

The Flip technique is the best way to conceal bobby pins in a half-up, half-down or up-do hairstyle. Start by placing the bobby pin horizontally into the strand. Once the hair inside reaches the end of the bobby pin, flip it in the other direction, then weave it through the hair close to the scalp. For a visual how-to, watch the video below!

 Bobby pin tips for thin, fine hair:

 For those with thin, fine, or slippery hair, spraying your bobby pins before using with dry shampoo or texturizing spray is going to be essential! You can also add extra grip and hold by adding some texturizing spray or volumizing powder to the mid-lengths and ends of the hair (or roots if that's where you're pinning!) before styling. In addition, protecting your hair from snagging with bobby pins that are double coated and non-damaging is a must.

Bobby pin tips for thick hair:

When you have thick hair, it can take a lot to keep it in place. For the best tips and tricks on how to use bobby pins for thick hair, Eva Chung's video is a must-watch.

Some of her best tips include investing in good bobby pins (extra bonus if they're color-matched to your hair) that will last and hold up even the thickest hair and using those coveted bobby pin techniques like the bobby buddy system.

How to use bobby pins in curly hair for more texture and interest:

For my ladies with curly hair, you can use bobby pins to give your curls more volume. When your hair is about 80 to 90% dry, place bobby pins around your hair part to encourage body and movement. Once your curls have thoroughly dried, remove the pins and style as desired. Feel free to watch the video below for a before and after tutorial on root clipping.

Root clipping:

Curly hairstyles with bobby pins: 

Bobby pin hairstyles for short hair:

Contrary to popular belief, there are countless ways to style short hair—especially when you have our beloved bobby pins in your toolbox. Don't believe us? Milabu's video below features 11 super easy hairstyles using bobby pins that are perfect for any occasion.

Oh, and if you are one of those people that can't ever seem to find their bobby pins, a Bobi Bag is just what you need so you never lose a bobby pin again. Plus, when you sign up for our newsletter, you'll get exclusive access to a BOGO offer: buy one Bobi Bag and get a FREE set of Bobi pins on your next order. Nope, it's not too good to be true—it's the truth!

If you have any more hair or bobby pin related questions or just want a little extra Bobi time, check out our blog and Instagram for the latest hairstyles, trends, tips, and how-to's.