With Josephine Oguntoyinbo
In many societies, a woman’s hair is often regarded as her beauty and pride. For generations, long hair has been associated with femininity, attraction and cultural identity. However, in recent years, more women have embraced low cuts and natural hairstyles for different personal, professional and health reasons. While some people admire the trend, others strongly oppose it, insisting that women should maintain long hair to preserve their feminine appearance.
For some women, cutting their hair is simply a matter of convenience. Busy schedules, rising costs of hair care products and the stress of maintaining long hairstyles have pushed many women towards simpler grooming choices. Others see short hair as a symbol of confidence, boldness and independence. To them, beauty is not measured by the length of one’s hair but by self-worth and personal comfort.
Speaking on the issue, a fashion designer, Mrs Tope Akinde, explained that many women now prefer short hair because it is easier to manage. According to her, maintaining long hair can be expensive, especially with the rising cost of wigs, attachments and relaxers. She noted that women who cut their hair spend less money and save more time. Mrs Akinde added that some people also complain about the discomfort of carrying heavy hairstyles during hot weather.
She further stated that short hair allows the scalp to breathe and encourages healthier hair growth. According to her, frequent use of chemicals and tight braids often damage women’s natural hair, leading to breakage and scalp infections. She stressed that many women who cut their hair eventually discover that their natural hair becomes stronger and healthier.
A teacher, Mrs Ronke Orilowo, also shared her views, saying that short hair helps her maintain discipline and neatness in her profession. She explained that teachers are constantly engaged in classroom activities and do not always have enough time to visit salons regularly. According to her, cutting her hair gives her confidence and enables her to focus more on her work rather than spending hours on hair maintenance.
Mrs Orilowo added that many professional women now see low haircuts as practical and decent. She argued that intelligence, competence and character should define a woman, not the length of her hair. The teacher stressed that society should stop judging women harshly because of their appearance, noting that every woman deserves the freedom to choose the hairstyle that suits her lifestyle.
A trader, Bose Toluwalose, said she decided to cut herhair because of the stress she faces daily in the market. According to her, moving around under the scorching sun with heavy hairstyles became uncomfortable. She explained that short hair makes her feel lighter and more comfortable during business hours. Bose added that she now saves money previously spent on expensive salon appointments.
The trader also noted that many women cut their hair after childbirth because of hormonal changes and hair loss. She explained that some nursing mothers experience severe hair breakage and prefer to start afresh with healthier natural hair. According to her, cutting the hair often gives women emotional relief and renewed confidence.
A nurse, Tosin Anifowose, stated that short hair is more hygienic, especially for women working in the health sector. She explained that nurses spend long hours attending to patients and must maintain cleanliness at all times. According to her, low haircuts reduce excessive sweating and makes it easier to use protective medical equipment comfortably.
Tosin further explained that some women cut their hair during periods of emotional transition or personal growth. She noted that after difficult experiences such as heartbreak, illness or major life changes, some women see haircutting as a fresh beginning. According to the nurse, changing one’s hairstyle can have psychological effects that boost confidence and emotional healing.
Despite these advantages, not everyone supports women cutting their hair. A businesswoman, Mrs Funmilayo Adeyemi, disagreed strongly with the trend. She argued that long hair remains a major symbol of feminine beauty and elegance. According to her, women with low haircuts often lose part of the natural softness traditionally associated with women.
Mrs Adeyemi also maintained that society is gradually abandoning important cultural values. She stated that in manyAfrican traditions, women were admired for keeping long and attractive hair. According to her, the growing trend of women cutting their hair reflects excessive Western influence and changing moral standards.
Another woman, Mrs Kehinde Alade, also expressed disapproval, saying that women who cut their hair are sometimes wrongly perceived as stubborn or rebellious. She argued that while every woman has freedom of choice, ladies should still consider public perception and cultural expectations before adopting extremely short hairstyles.
Mrs Alade further insisted that many men still prefer women with long hair because they consider it more attractive. According to her, short hair may not suit every woman, and some ladies eventually regret cutting their hair after receiving negative comments from family members and friends.
A counsellor, Mrs Stella Akinyede, however, advised society against condemning women based on hairstyles. She explained that hair choices are often influenced by personal experiences, health conditions, occupations and emotional wellbeing. According to her, judging women harshly because they cut their hair can lower their self-esteem and create unnecessary emotional pressure.
The counsellor further noted that parents and guardians should teach young girls self-confidence and self-respect rather than placing excessive importance on outward appearance. She stressed that true beauty goes beyond hairstyles and physical looks.According to Mrs Akinyede, women should be respected for their values, intelligence and contributions to society regardless of whether they keep long or short hair.
Indeed, the debate over why women cut their hair may continue for years because opinions differ widely across cultures and generations. While some women see short hair as freedom, convenience and self-expression, others believe long hair remains an important symbol of femininity and tradition. Ultimately, every woman has the right to decide how she wishes to appear, provided her choice promotes confidence, dignity and personal wellbeing.