How To Style Pin Curls

Learning how to style pin curls is a simple way to create a vintage-inspired hairstyle without relying on heated styling tools. The method uses damp hair, small rolled sections, and pins or curl clips to hold each curl in place. Working section by section helps keep the curls organized and makes it easier to cover the whole head evenly.

Table of Contents

How to Style Pin Curls Step by Step

Section the hair. Pin up the upper layers, leaving a section of hair loose at the bottom. Starting at the nape makes it easier to work upward without disturbing finished curls.
Dampen a small section. Lightly spray the loose hair with water. Take a section about 1 inch wide and smooth it before rolling.
Roll and secure. Roll the section up toward the roots, then secure it in place with a pin or curl clip. Aim for consistent section sizes so the curls have a more even appearance.
Continue in layers. When the bottom section is pinned, release another section from the hair above it. Repeat the process, working upward until the hair is rolled and secured.
Pin shorter side pieces. If shorter strands remain at the sides, wrap them around a nearby curl and pin them in place.
Set the bangs. Wet the bangs thoroughly, roll them toward the hairline, and secure the roll. For shorter bangs, mousse or gel may help keep the hair in place.

Tips for Neater, More Comfortable Curls

Keep the sections close to 1 inch wide and smooth out tangles before rolling. If a section feels too loose, unpin it and roll it again rather than pulling hard on the hair. Use enough water to make the hair manageable, but avoid soaking it so much that the pins become difficult to handle.

Pin curls can also be used as a no-heat styling method. Standard bobby pins may leave a dent in the curl; two-prong curl clips, also called pin curl clips, are an alternative that can help avoid that mark. Choose whichever option holds the roll securely without pinching or pulling.

Before taking the curls down

Make sure each roll is secure and that loose ends are tucked in. Allow the set to remain in place until you are ready to finish the style, and remove the pins or clips gently to avoid snagging the hair. The result can vary with hair length and texture, so adjust section size or product use as needed, especially around short bangs and side pieces.

For a vintage-inspired look without heat, these steps offer a straightforward starting point. Follow the same order each time—bottom section first, then work upward—to make how to style pin curls easier to repeat and adapt to your hair.