One of the best parts about working in a children’s salon is being a part of something as special as a first haircut. As an anthropologist; it also piques my interest to see the different cultural traditions that surround this momentous occasion. There are so many diverse beliefs that accompany this milestone.
In traditional Chinese culture, the baby’s head is shaved symbolizing the shedding of “birth hair”. Locks are them wrapped in red ribbon or cloth and sewn to the baby’s pillow to help with tranquility. Today it is more common to see the baby’s hair trimmed and the locks saved in ribbon. If the head is shaved, the hair is sometimes used to create special calligraphy brushes carved with blessings.
It is Hindu custom to shave the baby’s head because hair from birth is associated with undesirable traits from past lives. It is also thought that the shaving process stimulates brain development. Some will leave a small tuft called the "sikha" at the crown of the head to protect memory, but complete shaving is more common. Boys receive their first haircuts at age 1 or 3, whereas girls, receive theirs at 11 months. This tradition is very special for girls because it is the only haircut they will receive.
In Muslim tradition, baby’s receive their first haircuts within 7 days of being born, signifying their initiation into Muslim practice. Their heads are traditionally shaved and then the weight of the hair is given a monetary value which members of the culture pay in gold or silver.
Orthodox Jewish religion practices many traditions that signify growing up; the first haircut is one of them. The ritual is called "upsherin" and it is performed on boys at age 3 to signify the commencement of formal education of the Torah. The hair is cut short except for the sideburns which are left long to please regulations in the Torah.
Polynesian males don’t receive their first haircuts until the early teenage years. Their hair is cared for by female relatives and is grown long. Between ages 12-14, the haircut is performed. The ritual consists of the females caring for the hair one last time before it is cut, after which the boy is plastered with gifts and money.
In the United States, there is no formal tradition, more than likely the hair is grown until a haircut is need, usually around the first birthday. At The Salon at Kid's Club, we take a picture and include a keepsake lock in a card to remember this milestone. Plus... we have lollipops, which seem to make any tears disappear!
