Bobby Pins

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

Bobby pins are flat with one ridged side and one smooth side to grip hair securely, while hairpins are U-shaped and hold strands in place without pressing them flat. Use bobby pins to hold hairstyles in place, like taming flyaways or securing braids. Hairpins work best for intricate updos, buns and voluminous styles that need gentle support.

At Hairhouse, we stock a variety of hair accessories to suit every need, including bobby pins, fringe pins and ripple pins. We also have a wide selection of different hair products, like hair clips, hair bands and hair ties. From everyday styles to special occasions, our range makes it easy to create the perfect look.

Are bobby pins bad for your hair?

Not at all! When used properly, bobby pins are a safe and practical way to style your hair. They’re designed to hold hair in place without causing damage, as long as you avoid pulling too tightly or using them on wet strands. Removing them carefully instead of yanking them out also helps prevent breakage.

For extra protection, pair them with nourishing haircare products like serums to keep your hair smooth and easy to style. Hydrated, healthy strands allow pins to slide in effortlessly, no matter your hair type.

How to make bobby pins stay in place all day

Bobby pins are a staple for styling, but if they keep slipping, a few small tweaks can fix that. We recommend using these simple tricks to help them grip better and keep your style in place from morning to night:

1. Start with clean, dry hair: Oily or damp strands can make pins slide, so always style on dry hair for a stronger hold.
2. Spray bobby pins with hairspray before using: A light mist of hairspray adds grip, helping them stay put for a long-lasting finish.
3. Use the right amount of hair per pin: If a section is too thick, the pin won’t hold properly. Use an extra pin instead of forcing one to do all the work.
4. Insert bobby pins with the ridged side facing down: This gives them more grip and helps them stay in place all day.
5. Cross two pins over each other for extra hold: A crisscrossed pair locks everything in and prevents slipping.

How to make bobby pins stay in thick hair

Keeping bobby pins in thick hair can be tricky, but using our two-inch or three-inch pins gives you a stronger hold. Smaller pins can slip or lose grip, while these larger sizes secure more hair and keep styles in place all day.

Styling your hair with bobby pins

Start by brushing or combing your hair to smooth out any tangles. These little pins might be small, but they’re perfect for securing up-dos, pinning back loose layers or adding a touch of detail to your look.

Here are some easy ways to use bobby pins for everyday styles:

• Create a twisted half-up style: Take a small section of hair from each side near your temples, twist them loosely and bring them together at the back. Secure with two or three bobby pins, either in a row or crisscrossed for extra hold.
• Pin back one side for a sleek look: Brush one side of your hair back and slide in two or three bobby pins just above your ear. Angle them slightly for a secure grip that keeps everything in place.
• Lock styles in place with a crisscross hold: Smooth down a section of hair with a hair brush and secure it with one pin. Add a second pin over the first in an X-shape for a strong, stylish hold. This works well for buns, loose layers or sections that need extra security.
• Keep a headband from slipping: Once your headband is in place, slide two or three bobby pins underneath near your ears to hold it steady without them being visible.
• Secure a half-up style: Gather small sections from both sides of your face and pull them toward the back of your head. Pin them just below the crown, overlapping two or three bobby pins slightly for a neat and secure hold.

Easy hairstyles for short hair with bobby pins

Short hair can be just as versatile as long locks with the right hair styling tricks. Use a comb to smooth out your hair and create clean sections. For a chic look, twist small pieces at the front and secure them with bobby pins at the back. If you want something sleek, sweep one side back and pin it in place for a polished finish.

Another easy option is creating a mini updo. Gather the top section of your hair, twist it gently and pin it at the crown for added volume. You can also use bobby pins to tuck away shorter layers or add decorative touches to your look.

Tricks to place bobby pins so they don’t show

Place bobby pins correctly to keep them hidden while making sure your style stays put. Always insert them with the ridged side down so they grip better and stay secure. 

Choosing a shade that matches your hair colour, like bronze, black, gold or silver, also helps bobby pins blend in. For a seamless look, tuck them under a layer of hair instead of pinning them on top.

A light mist of hairspray on your pins before styling gives them extra grip so they won’t slide out. If you’re securing an updo, push the pins into the style at an angle rather than straight in. And for the strongest hold, crossing two pins in an X-shape locks them in place while keeping them out of sight.

Stock up on bobby pins online or in-store at Hairhouse. Save them to your wishlist or shop at sale or regular prices with easy payment methods. When you're ready, place your first order, hit checkout and enjoy free shipping on orders over $70 AUD. Need them sooner? Use our store locator to find a Hairhouse near you across Australia!