Is Your Baby Ready For Their First Haircut?

Your baby’s first haircut is a major milestone — one that’s filled with excitement, nerves, and a few “Are we really ready for this?” moments. Some kids grow hair like weeds, while others rock the messy look well past their first birthday. So how do you know when it’s time for that first trim?

Here are 5 signs that your baby might be ready for their very first haircut:

1. Hair Is Getting in Their Eyes

If you find yourself constantly brushing hair away from your baby’s face or if their bangs are starting to poke into their eyes, a quick trim can make a big difference. Not only will they look tidier, but it’ll help them see better and avoid irritation.

2. They’re Tugging or Fussing With Their Hair

Babies are curious by nature — and if their hair is long enough to pull, twist, or tangle in their tiny fingers, it might be time for a cut. This helps prevent knots, breakage, or (in some cases) hair wrapping too tightly around little fingers.

3. Hair Is Starting to Look Uneven

Uneven patches are totally normal in the baby hair world — but if your baby’s hair is growing in wild directions or one area is much longer than the rest, a quick shape-up can help even things out.

4. You’re Spending Too Much Time Detangling

If bath time turns into a battle over tangles and you’re reaching for detangling spray more often than you’d like, a little trim can go a long way. Keeping the hair shorter and more manageable can reduce stress for both you and baby.

5. You Want to Mark a Special Moment

Sometimes, the best reason to schedule a first haircut is simply to celebrate a milestone. Whether it’s their first birthday, a family photo day, or just a moment you want to remember forever — there’s no “right” timeline, just the one that feels right for you and your baby.

It’s All About Building Familiarity, Comfort, and Readiness

After years of kids’ haircut research, we recommend babies get their first haircut between ages 12-18 months. The earlier they are introduced to the haircut experience, the easier their future haircuts will be!

When you do decide it’s time, make it fun! Choose a kid-friendly barber or stylist, bring their favorite toy or snack, and don’t forget to snap a “before” and “after” pic to commemorate their special day.

Looking for support to make your baby’s first haircut smooth, memorable, and tear-free? Visit our Tips For Parents tab for expert advice, and don’t forget to download our free Haircut Heroes app! You’ll get access to the “I Was Brave for My First Haircut” storybook, fun memory games, and a searchable map of kid-friendly barbers and stylists near you.

FAQs:

Q: What age is best for a baby’s first haircut?

We recommend scheduling your baby’s first haircut between 12 to 18 months old.

At this age, children are naturally curious and more open to new experiences. Introducing haircuts early helps them become familiar with the process, making future visits less intimidating. The earlier they’re introduced to it in a positive way, the more likely they’ll feel confident — and even excited — to get their haircut as they grow.

Q: How do I prepare my baby for their first haircut?

Start by choosing a kid-friendly barber or stylist who is experienced with babies and young children, and uses a system like the Imagination Booster to make kids’ haircut a fun and easier experience.

Schedule the appointment during a time when your baby is well-rested and fed. Bring comfort items like a favorite toy or snack, and talk to your baby calmly during the process. Reading a storybook about haircuts beforehand can also help ease anxiety and make the experience feel fun and familiar.

Q: What if my baby cries during their first haircut?

Crying is completely normal — it’s a new experience with unfamiliar sights, sounds, and sensations. Stay calm, offer comfort with a soothing voice or favorite toy, and don’t worry if the haircut needs to be done in short breaks. The goal is to create a positive first experience, even if it’s not perfect.