When Is the Right Time to Cut Your Baby’s Hair?
Deciding when to give your baby their first haircut can be a tough call for parents. While there is no set rule, experts recommend waiting until at least 12 months old. Learn what factors to consider and get tips to make your baby’s first haircut easy and memorable.
Introduction
Many babies are born with a full head of hair that starts growing rapidly in the first six months. At some point, you’ll start wondering when it might be time for their first haircut. The right timing depends on a few key considerations.
Signs Your Baby Is Ready
Your baby’s hair type, growth patterns, age, and developmental milestones can all impact the ideal timing for their first trim. Here are signs your little one may be ready for the snip:
- 12 months old or older
- Thick, fast-growing hair that requires frequent trims to maintain vision and manageability
- Shows ability to hold head steady and sit upright with support
- Can follow simple directions and will tolerate handling of head and hair
- Pulls aggressively at strands and seems bothered by hair in face/eyes
If your baby does not demonstrate most of these readiness signs, it is fine to wait a few more months. Speak to your pediatrician if unsure.
Picking the Right Age
Healthcare professionals typically recommend baby’s first haircut somewhere between 12-18 months old. Here is an overview of what this age range means:
12 Months
- Ideal starting point for majority of babies
- Relatively still and cooperative for short session
- Enough hair growth to require some shaping
15 Months
- Greater ability to express needs/discomfort
- Increased mobility requiring more assistance
- Hair potentially quite long and covering ears/eyes
18 Months
- Greater patience and engagement in activity
- Able to follow multi-step directions with help
- Very long hair likely needing significant trim
While 12 months is suitable for most, base the timing on your baby’s unique growth patterns and tolerance levels.
Preparing Baby for a Positive Experience
To help make that inaugural haircut successful, take steps to keep your baby comfortable and calm:
- Avoid nap times when they tend to be cranky
- Feed them to prevent hungry fussiness
- Bring along a favorite toy or book to provide distraction
- Play calming music or a familiar show/movie on a tablet
- Use positive reinforcement with praise and smiles
- Stop if they become upset and try again later
Having an extra set of hands can also be useful. Brief older siblings on what’s about to happen so they can lend their support.
Keeping the First Hairstyle Simple
When deciding how much hair to cut for their first trim, start modest with a basic, age-appropriate style:
Boys Go for a short, rounded cut needing little fuss. Keep some length up top to comb different ways as it grows out.
Girls
Trim fringe and ends to frame the face. Add a deep side part or cute bow for style. Resist heavy layers or bangs needing frequent trims.
The priority should be keeping your baby comfortable and their hair manageable. Complex styles can come later once your child expresses clear preferences.
Preserving Memorable First Locks
While baby’s first haircut is practical, it also carries emotional meaning. Snipping those beautiful baby locks can be tough. Here are ideas to save the very first cuttings:
- Request the first trimmings from the stylist
- Place hair in a labeled ziplock or envelope
- Store in baby book or memory box with date/age
- Frame with photos from the big day
- Create artwork or jewelry to wear by encasing strands in resin or glass
By preserving a lock of pre-cut hair, you ensure you’ll be able to reminisce about this milestone as your baby continues growing into the toddler and child years.
The Bottom Line
Knowing the optimal age for a baby’s first haircut equips you to make the best decision for your child. While the 12-18 month range serves as a good guideline, keep an eye on your baby’s unique developmental cues. With the proper preparation and realistic expectations, your baby’s inaugural trim can be a fun, stress-free milestone.