Cutting your baby’s hair can seem like a daunting task. Some babies can be rather fidgety and this can spark fear when it comes to cutting near their delicate features such as their eyes and ears.
If your baby has fast-growing hair that falls in their eyes, you may feel as though a haircut is necessary. There are many misconceptions regarding whether or not it is appropriate to cut your baby’s hair before they reach a certain age.
Whilst there aren’t many reasons as to why you should not cut your baby’s hair before they reach the age of 1, you should wait until they can sit. Most babies can do this by 6 months, but it can differ.
There are also certain steps that you can follow which will make the process for both you and your baby stress-free.
Ensure That You Have Your Supplies Ready
Like most things concerning babies, planning and preparation are key when it comes to giving them a haircut. Your baby is likely to become unsettled if they have to wait for you to get everything ready.
You will require a pair of small salon-style scissors, a towel, a comb to brush through the hair, a spray bottle to dampen it (though you can cut the hair after a bath when it is still wet), a chair, and something to protect their clothing.
We would also advise you to have some of your baby’s favorite toys ready as this will make them feel more settled whilst also helping to distract them as you begin cutting the hair.
Alternatively, you may wish to occupy them with a little snack.
The type of seat that you require will depend on the age of your baby. It needs to contain them so that there is no risk of them climbing out or moving a lot.
A highchair is a great option for those below the age of 2.
Make Sure That Your Baby Is Happy
Attempting to cut your baby’s hair is not recommended if they are tired, hungry, or cranky. Not only are they likely to be more unsettled but there is a greater chance that they will squirm and move around a lot.
Cutting your baby’s hair when they are in such a state may create a negative association with hair cut time.
A happy, fed, and well-rested baby may still move around a little but not to the same extent as a restless baby. This is going to make it much easier for you to give them a quick haircut.
Try To Make It A Fun Experience
It is important to remember that in the early stages of your baby’s life they will experience a lot of new things, many of which can appear rather daunting.
Because of this, you should try and make a haircut seem like a fun experience. Try your best to keep them entertained.
Depending on their age, you could even give them a spare comb to play around with until you have finished cutting the hair.
Start Cutting Their Hair
Now that you are properly prepared, you can begin cutting your baby’s hair. The ears tend to be the hardest section so you will find it easier to start cutting around those first, especially because your baby is likely to be calmer at the beginning.
Using a comb you can then section your baby’s hair. The number of sections is going to depend on the thickness of the hair. Take a section of hair between your fingers, holding it away from your baby’s head.
Try and position your fingers as close to your baby’s head as possible as doing so will create a buffer that will help to prevent any unexpected accidents.
Now cut the hair to the desired length making sure that you do not cut it too short.
Allow the cut hair to fall onto the floor before moving onto the next section. Repeat this step until you have cut all of the sections.
Ideally, you should do the back first, followed by the sides before finishing at the front. Remember to give your baby plenty of praise during the process and once the haircut is done.
Wash Your Baby’s Hair
If you did not bathe and wash your baby’s hair beforehand, you may choose to do it afterward to get rid of any loose strands of hair. Use the bathing products that you would when giving them a normal bath.
Shaving A Baby’s Hair
Using clippers to cut hair is not recommended for young babies as their skulls are still developing. Likewise, clippers should not be used on babies that have a cradle cap.
If possible, you should try and use a longer guard because it will not take too much off the length of your baby’s hair. Go over your baby’s head in both directions. Doing so will ensure that you do not miss any sections of hair.
Depending on the look that you are going for, you may want to use scissors for some sections.
It is important to remember that you should not use clippers on young babies. Also, you should be very careful and gentle to avoid any injuries.
Taking Your Baby To The Hairdressers
Some parents may feel more comfortable taking their baby to a hairdresser rather than trying to cut the hair themselves. Certain stylists specialize in cutting babies and young children’s hair.
If you are taking your baby to the hairdresser for the first time, try to make them feel as relaxed as possible. When you get to the hairdressers if your baby is not cooperating, you shouldn’t force it.
Instead, try to take them when they seem content and at ease.
Final Thoughts
Cutting your baby’s hair needn’t be a stressful task. Unless you feel it is necessary, you can wait until your baby is a year or older.
Remember that preparation and planning play a role in a successful haircut. You can take your baby to a professional if you do not feel comfortable doing it yourself.
