Can I keep the hair that they cut?
Index
There are a number of reasons why people may want to keep the hair that they have cut off at a hairdresser.
Memento or donation
In the past, hair locks were kept as a memento of a child’s first cut or to send to a loved one. Today people can choose to donate their hair to a charity to assist people who may have lost their hair due to cancer treatment or to people who suffer from other medical conditions that result in hair loss. Most hairdressers will not have an issue with you asking to keep the hair they have cut, however it is important to let the hairdresser know first that this is your intention. If you plan on donating your hair to charity, make sure to find out first what the specific hair donation requirements are for that organisation. Often these specify that hair needs to be shampooed and of a certain length and be cut when tied in a ponytail or braid. Parting with long hair can often be a really emotional moment, however donating your hair to a worthy cause and helping someone feel better about himself or herself is a really positive action.
Contact your local hair salon and discuss your wish to keep your hair after it is cut.