When a baby is born, one of the first things parents usually do is take their child to get a haircut. It can be a little bit daunting for first-time parents, but with a little guidance, it's easy to do.
When a first haircut should be done?
Most babies don't need their first haircut until they're about 6 months old. But it's really up to the parents to decide when their child needs a haircut. Some babies may need one sooner if they have a lot of hair, while others may not need one until they're a year old or older.
What type of haircut should I get for my baby?
There are many different types of haircuts you can get for your baby. You can go with a short bob, or keep the hair longer and have it styled in a variety of ways. It all depends on what you and your child are comfortable with.
How to prepare your baby?
It is a common mistake to cut your baby`s hair without preparation. But your child may be scared for many reasons. If the child has never seen haircuts on other people, he may be scared of a stranger with strange tools near his head. Even children who have been to hair salons before may be apprehensive if they are not feeling well or if they do not like loud noises.
The following are some tips to help prepare your baby for his first haircut:
- Make sure your child is well-rested and relaxed before the haircut.
- Explain what will happen during the haircut ahead of time. Let your child know that you will be there with him the whole time and that he can trust the stylist.
- Bring a favorite toy or book to keep your child occupied during the haircut.
- Talk to your child in a calming voice and reassure him that everything is going to be okay.
- If your child is scared, you may want to consider getting a haircut at home with a trusted family member or friend.
What should you use - scissors or trimmer?
Most stylists use electric trimmers to cut a baby`s hair. Scissors are used more often for older children whose ears are more developed. There are also special clippers that have rounded blades that are best suited for babies with sensitive skin.
How to hold your baby?
If you're just learning how to cut your child's hair, bring along a friend or family member so they can help you keep the child still. You may be able to learn it on your own after a few haircuts though!
First of all, position yourself so that the child is comfortably in your lap facing away from you towards someone else in the room. Drape a towel over his shoulders and back, then put another one on top of his head. To keep him still, put his hands in your own hands or hold onto his feet.
What is the best position for cutting a baby's hair?
There are different options when it comes to cutting a baby`s hair - you can see them below.
The child stands upright with his back to one side of the adult and the head resting against that person`s chest. This position will depend on someone else holding your child in place, but it has the advantage that you will get an even cut all around. Another option is to sit down on a bench or chair and turn the child towards you so he hangs upside down by your knees. Be sure to only leave the sides long enough to give good coverage over the ears.
The baby can also sit on the floor in front of you, with his head resting comfortably on your lap. This will give you a clear view and plenty of control when cutting the hair. If your child is old enough to cooperate, he may also be able to sit in a chair by himself. You can then cut the hair while it hangs down in front of him.
Whichever position you choose, always make sure that the child's head is tilted slightly forward so that you are cutting straight across the hair and not at an angle. It's also important to avoid snipping off any hair near the ears - these hairs will eventually grow back thicker and darker.
How do I go about getting my baby's haircut?
Most parents take their children to a professional hairstylist to get their haircut. But if you're comfortable doing it yourself, you can certainly do that as well. Just make sure you have the right tools and follow the proper steps.
No matter who cuts your baby's hair, make sure you discuss with them any specific needs or wants you may have. You may want them to trim the hair around your child's ears, or leave it a little longer in the back. It's important to be clear about what you want so that your child's haircut is exactly how you want it.
Haircut: step by step
Here are a few tips for giving your baby a haircut:
- Make sure you have all the supplies you need before you start. This includes scissors, clippers, a comb, and hair spray or gel.
- Cut your baby's hair while they are still asleep. This will help them stay calm and avoid any messes.
- Comb your baby's hair before you start cutting to make sure there are no knots or tangles.
- Always cut your baby's hair in the direction it is growing. If you want to give your baby a style, always use gel or hair spray when you are done.
- (For those who do haircuts at the saloon) never leave home without a diaper and wipes! You never know when you might need them, or be stuck in the waiting room and want to clean up a bit before going back in.
- Make sure you tell the person who cuts your child's hair how much hair he/she wants off. If they can't understand what you say, show them by using your hand.
- Cut little bits at a time so that it won't be such a dramatic change for your child - they will get used to their new look much easier.
- If your child isn't happy with the cut, wait until they are asleep again and try later! This will make sure you get a good result the first time around.
How to choose a saloon for the baby`s haircut?
- Ask your friends and family for recommendations.
- Look in the phone book, online, or even in your local shopping center for a salon that specializes in children's haircuts.
- Make sure to ask how much they charge and what kind of payment methods they accept.
- Try to find out about the experience of the stylist who will be cutting your child's hair. For example: How old is he/she? Has she worked with kids before i.e.: daycare centers etc.?
- The most important thing to remember when you want to take your baby`s haircut is that you are doing it for your baby! And if he doesn't like it afterward, make sure not to worry since it'll grow back!
What should I do if my child cries during the haircut?
If your baby is crying, try to remain calm and talk to him in a soothing voice. Put on some of the child's favorite music and dance with her. It may help take her mind off what's going on at first. If she continues to cry, give him a pacifier or favorite toy. This will also ensure that you get a good cut - it can be difficult for stylists to see what they're doing when children are moving around too much!
If you failed to cut hair, when can you try again?
If you failed to cut hair the first time, don't worry. You can always try again when your baby is asleep. Just make sure you have all the supplies you need and follow the same steps. And remember - it's important to be patient! Babies grow quickly, and their hair will too!
How often should you cut your baby`s hair?
You don't need to cut your baby's hair every month, but you should aim to get a haircut at least every six months. This will help keep their hair looking neat and tidy and will make it much easier to manage. If you have any other questions or concerns about the baby's haircuts, be sure to ask your pediatrician for advice. He/she will be able to help you decide on the best course of action for your child.
Baby haircut traditions in different countries
In some cultures, it is tradition for the baby's hair to be shaved off completely. In others, a simple trim is all that is necessary. It is important to find out what the tradition is in your country before you go ahead and cut your baby's hair.
In India, it is tradition for the baby's hair to be shaved off completely. This is done when the baby is around one month old.
In America, it is more common to give the baby a trim rather than shave their head completely bald. Most babies get their first haircut when they are around six months old.
In France, it is common for sweet-smelling herbs and flowers to be woven into your child's hair after a haircut.
In Australia, many people like to give their child a mullet (long at the front and short, or shaved, at the back).
In China, it is tradition for babies to wear colorful hats after they get a haircut. These hats are said to bring good luck to the child.
In Japan, it is considered bad luck and disrespectful for babies and children to ever cut their hair. The same goes for eyelashes and eyebrow hairs! If you were born in Japan and want these types of haircuts done on yourself or your baby, make sure to stay clear of any traditional Japanese barbers - you don't want someone accidentally cutting off too much!
Bottom line
There are a variety of different traditions when it comes to baby haircuts around the world. If you're not sure what to do, it's best to ask around and see what is the norm in your country.
Be sure to also talk to your pediatrician before you make a decision. They will be able to advise you on what is the best course of action for your child. Thanks for reading!