With the arrival of spring, many women are eager to try out gorgeous new updos and intricate braids. They’re totally trendy right now, and you can find many helpful tutorials to help you master any style imaginable. However, if you don’t have the right tools and tricks to achieve hair perfection, your attempts may fall flat.

The Beauty Department has a great tip that’s simple but totally worth knowing. After you’ve lathered up with a shampoo and have dried and styled your hair, you’ll probably need a few bobby pins to hold your careful work in place. To hide them and get the best hold, insert the pins up into the hair in the opposite direction that your strands are going.

This will give you a strong hold on braids, twists and any other styles you’re bold enough to attempt. Of course, a great hairspray also helps to keep your locks in place and looking flawless all day. Easy, right?