They are strong but very difficult to open. If you have to open a lot of them in a row, I recommend taking a short break in between. They'll make your fingertips hurt like crazy! I used them to make loops to attach to dog collars. I would not recommend using them on hair. They're cheaper than the ones I've seen in the hobby lobby, but a little harder to open. I can't stress this enough. They worked for what I needed them for.