In ancient Egypt, hairstyles reflected social status, age and wealth ¹ ². Both men and women wore wigs, which were a status symbol ¹ ². Men usually wore their hair short, while women wore their hair long ¹ ². Children had their heads shaved except for one lock of hair ¹. Priests were required to shave their heads ¹.

Ancient Egyptians placed great importance on hair grooming and styling, viewing hair as a symbol of personal hygiene, status, and cultural identity. Here's how they styled their hair:

1. **Wigs and Hairpieces**: Wigs were commonly worn by both men and women in ancient Egypt, regardless of social status. Wigs were made from human hair, wool, or plant fibers and were worn to protect the head from the sun and to maintain a neat and polished appearance. Wigs were often elaborate and styled with curls, braids, or decorative ornaments.

2. **Shaved Heads**: It was common for both men and women to shave their heads and wear wigs instead. Shaving the head was considered a hygienic practice, preventing the accumulation of lice and parasites, and also allowed for better fitting of wigs.

3. **Braids and Hairstyles**: Braids were a popular hairstyle among ancient Egyptians, especially for women. Braids were worn in various styles, including single braids, multiple braids, and intricate patterns. Braids were often adorned with beads, ribbons, or metal ornaments to add decoration and symbolism.

4. **Hair Adornments**: Hair adornments such as hairpins, combs, and hair rings were commonly used to secure hairstyles and add embellishments. These adornments were often made from materials such as ivory, bone, metal, or semi-precious stones, reflecting the wearer's wealth and status.

5. **Hair Coloring**: Ancient Egyptians were known to color their hair using natural dyes made from plants and minerals. Henna was commonly used to dye hair red, while other natural substances such as indigo and saffron were used to achieve different colors. Hair coloring was often used to enhance the appearance of wigs and add vibrancy to hairstyles.

6. **Symbolism and Rituals**: Hair styling held symbolic significance in ancient Egyptian culture, with hairstyles often associated with religious beliefs, social status, and cultural traditions. Certain hairstyles were reserved for specific occasions, such as religious ceremonies, festivals, or funerary rituals, and were chosen based on their symbolic meaning and cultural significance.

Overall, hair styling in ancient Egypt was a reflection of cultural values, aesthetics, and religious beliefs, with hairstyles playing a central role in personal grooming, social identity, and cultural expression.