hairpins

Hairpins are small fastening devices used to secure hair in place. Most commonly made of metal, they come in a range of sizes and shapes, with U-shaped pins being the standard form for everyday use and longer straight or curved pins used for updos. The best known version is the bobby pin, a short U-shaped pin with one wavy edge. When inserted with the wavy edge facing downward, the pin grips hair to resist slipping. In addition to functional pins, decorative hairpins or French pins are designed to hold hair while also serving as ornamentation.

Hairpins are typically made from stainless steel or brass and may be coated with nickel, gold, or colored enamel. Protective tips and smooth edges reduce snagging. Decorative hairpins often feature rhinestones, pearls, enamel designs, or floral motifs and are used to complement outfits or hairstyles.

They are commonly used with other styling tools and accessories, such as elastics or barrettes, for securing updos, buns, or braids. Proper technique involves guiding the pinned section to sit close to the scalp and leaving the wavy edge oriented down toward the scalp to maximize grip. Care includes avoiding excessive bending and storing pins in a small container to prevent loss and corrosion.

In other domains, the term hairpin is used for a U-shaped retaining clip used in mechanical assemblies, commonly called a hairpin cotter pin, and for a sharp 180-degree bend in road design known as a hairpin turn.