The Perfect Pin Curl: Mastering The Clip Technique (2025)

Pin curls are a great way to achieve bouncy, beautiful spirals without the need for heat tools. This curling method has been around for a long time and can be done on both short and long hair. The process involves washing your hair, applying a frizz serum or cream, parting your hair, creating pin curls by rolling hair around your fingers, and then pinning them in place with either bobby pins or hair clips. After waiting for the curls to dry, you can remove the pins, shake out your hair, and style it as desired.

How to choose the right clips for your hair type

Choosing the right hair clips can elevate your look and make styling your hair a lot easier. Here is a guide to help you select the most suitable clips for your hair type:

Fine Hair

For fine hair, the challenge is finding a clip that doesn't slip out or weigh down your strands. Opt for lightweight clips with a strong grip, such as mini claw clips or snap clips with silicone grips. These clips will hold your hair securely without causing damage or pulling on your strands.

Thick Hair

Thick hair requires sturdy clips with ample space to accommodate the volume of your locks. Large claw clips, also known as "hair claws," are ideal for managing thick hair. These clips feature large teeth and a strong grip to secure and tame even the most unruly manes.

Curly Hair

When selecting hair clips for curly hair, look for options that won't disrupt your natural curl pattern or cause frizz. Smooth, wide-toothed clips or claws made from acetate are excellent choices for curly hair. These clips gently hold your curls without causing snagging or frizz, helping you maintain your hair's natural texture.

Long Hair

Long hair offers a wide range of styling options, and you can experiment with various clips, from barrettes to longer claw clips. Longer claws are perfect for holding updos or half-up styles, while barrettes can add a decorative touch to your lengthy locks.

Short Hair

Just because you have short hair doesn't mean you can't join in on the fun of hair clips! Mini clips, bobby pins, and small barrettes can add a stylish touch to shorter haircuts without overwhelming them.

Multi-Purpose Clips

Some hair clips are designed to suit all hair types and styles, making them versatile additions to your accessory collection. These clips are often marketed as "hair clips for women" or simply "claw clips." They are perfect for a range of styling needs, whether you're pulling back bangs, securing a bun, or adding a decorative accent to your look.

Remember, when choosing hair clips, consider not just your hair type but also the clip's material, size, and design. With the right hair clips, you can enhance your natural beauty and create stylish looks that complement your hair's needs and your personal style.

How to section your hair for pin curls

To create pin curls, you will need to start by sectioning your hair. The size of the section will determine the tightness of the curls. Smaller sections will result in tighter curls, while larger sections will create looser curls. You can vary the size of the sections depending on the look you are going for and the time you have available. If you are short on time, larger sections are the way to go.

For the front sections of your hair, you can create triangular sections. This will ensure that the curls flow together and don't leave obvious gaps.

Once you have decided on the size of your sections, you can begin to part your hair. Start by parting your hair in the middle or side, depending on your preference. Then, create your sections. A good rule of thumb is to make sections that are about one inch to one and a half inches big.

If you have thick or long hair, you may want to use hair clips instead of bobby pins to secure your curls. Alligator clips are a good option, as they are more heavy-duty and will hold your curls in place without leaving creases.

How to create flat pin curls

To create flat pin curls, start by taking a section of hair and holding it at an angle close to your head. Finding the right angle is key to pin-curling, as you want the curl to lie flat against your scalp without crimping any hair underneath. Next, starting at the end, wrap the hair around one or two fingers—make sure not to wrap the hair too tight so that you can slide your fingers out afterward. Tuck in any loose ends, then remove your fingers and pinch the curl on either side with your hands. Turn the curl down toward your scalp while wrapping the rest of the hair into the curl, being careful not to twist the hair. Finish by clipping the curl in place with an alligator hair clip. Repeat this process for the rest of your hair, making sure to alternate the direction of your pin curls with each new section.

How to create elevated pin curls

Elevated pin curls are a great way to add volume to your hair. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to create elevated pin curls:

Start with dry hair. If you are starting with wet hair, gently towel dry it first. You want your hair to be damp, not soaking wet. You can also apply a setting lotion or a thin styling gel at this point to help hold the curls.

Section your hair. Starting from the front of your head, take a small section of hair, about 1-1.5 inches wide. This will depend on how tight you want your curls to be. Smaller sections will give you tighter curls.

Create the curl. Hold the section of hair close to your head and wrap it around your finger to create a small loop. Continue rolling the hair upwards in a spiral until you reach your scalp.

Secure the curl. Use a pin curl clip or 1-2 bobby pins to secure the curl to your scalp. Make sure the curl is sitting flat against your scalp and that all the ends are tucked in.

Repeat. Continue creating and pinning curls until you have worked your way around your head. Remember to work from the top down so that you don't miss any strands.

Let it dry. Wrap your head in a scarf or a bandana to prevent frizz and keep the pins in place. Let your hair dry completely. This will take several hours.

Remove the pins. Once your hair is completely dry, remove the pins, starting from the back and bottom of your head. Unravel each curl gently.

Style your curls. When all the pins are removed, lightly brush through your curls to create the desired style. For thicker hair or a more vintage look, use a boar-bristle brush to comb out your strands.

Elevated pin curls can be a bit tricky and time-consuming, but with practice, you will get better at it. So, don't get discouraged if your first attempt doesn't turn out perfectly. Just stick with it, and you'll be able to create beautiful, voluminous curls!

How to brush out your curls

Step 1: Get the Right Brush

Firstly, it's important to find the right brush for your hair type. A nylon bristle brush is a good option for brushing out curls, but you can also use a wide-tooth comb.

Step 2: Prepare Your Hair

This style works especially well for hair that hasn't been freshly washed. If your hair is clean, you can spritz it with water and add a little product to help define the curls.

Step 3: Apply a Heat Protectant

If you're going to be using any heat tools, now is the time to apply a heat protectant to prevent damage.

Step 4: Curl Your Hair

Divide your hair into sections and curl it with a curling iron. For longer, softer curls that resemble waves, don't curl your hair too tightly.

Step 5: Brush Out Your Curls

Once your hair is curled, grab your brush and start brushing from the ends of your hair, working your way up. Be gentle as you brush to avoid creating frizz.

Step 6: Add Some Nourishment

After your hair is completely tangle-free, run a nourishing hair oil or shine serum through your hair to minimise frizz and add shine.

Step 7: Finish with Hairspray

Complete the look with a volumizing finishing hairspray to hold those brushed-out curls in place.

Frequently asked questions