Home » Nonprofits » Donations » Other Donations Topics

Donate Your Hair?

From the lens How to Donate Your Hair.

Thoughts on this lens? Questions? Planning to donate your hair or have you done it in the past? Let's hear from you!

Most of the answers to your questions are on this site. Check the links above or any of the previous questions to see if it's been answered already. Thanks!

  • looniestlove May 30, 2012 @ 12:43 am | delete
    wow, this is such a very intresting and inspirational lens, I never knew that my hair could be put into good use and could be donated in order to help other kids who are suffering with hair loss and leukemia,I'm really humbled by your lens, thank you very much for sharing this wonderful information with us.
  • jazziyarbrough May 27, 2012 @ 1:13 pm | delete
    I have never thought of donating my hair, but this lens has great useful information just incase I decided to. Thank you for sharing. It is a wonderful lens that surely educated me on all of the steps for donating hair. I never knew that you could not donate colored hair!
  • tembrooke May 24, 2012 @ 5:54 pm | delete
    My cousin's young daughter did this today! I was so impressed. I think it's a wonderful cause. If I had the patience to grow my hair that long, I'd donate too.
  • liz May 23, 2012 @ 5:34 pm | delete
    I am going today to cut 10+ inches off my hair to donate. It's a big step for me as I've been growing it for a while and I'm scared of change (who isn't right??) HOWEVER. I know mine will grow back, and this is an extremely good cause. I think it's going to be great. <3
  • StainMasterBris May 23, 2012 @ 5:55 am | delete
    Wow! I am so impressed. I will definitely share this lens to a couple of my friends so that we can get more people to donate their hair.
  • Joie May 22, 2012 @ 10:31 pm | delete
    I had to come back and tell you how much I appreciate this site. I'm planning to donate hair soon, and your site is a great resource explaining how to do this, where to do this, and what the guidelines are for each organization. Thank again!
  • piarejuden May 22, 2012 @ 1:51 am | delete
    Wow.. what a lens! Amazing! If I wasn't struggling to griw my hair long, I'd have donated too.... thanks for the share.. I am sure a couple of my friends would love this info...so I am sharing your lens too!
  • skatersollie May 21, 2012 @ 11:28 pm | delete
    It's great that people are willing to donate for a good cause
  • tailsandsnouts May 15, 2012 @ 1:26 pm | delete
    I never realized that there were so many places to donate your hair. In the past I've donated to Locks of Love and Pantene usually once per year since my hair grows so fast.
  • DeepikaBhardwaj May 15, 2012 @ 1:33 am | delete
    good idea...........it is amazing.......
  • cabletiesandmore May 11, 2012 @ 11:53 pm | delete
    Very interesting ! Till date I have idea of donating all organs other than "hair donate". In my country there are so many occasions when people devote their hair in religious places and a few of such places sell it in market but most of the places it is just a waste. Good idea to share.
  • totalbountyweb May 11, 2012 @ 2:12 am | delete
    I'd be happy to give up my hair especially for little kids who are battling with cancer. Great lens! - Jules Mariano of Total Bounty
  • Hypersapien May 8, 2012 @ 10:17 am | delete
    I saw a documentary on this and it was very moving. Much gratitude to everyone who donates.
  • L Rodenkirch Apr 30, 2012 @ 1:01 pm | delete
    My hair grows unbelievably FAST - I have donated 12+ inches every other year for the last 12 years. Just a few months after my very first donation my mother was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer (she won that battle) so now my donations have become something that is very near and dear to both our hearts.
  • TheLifestyleChanger Apr 26, 2012 @ 10:06 pm | delete
    What a beautiful idea. Unfortunately my hair doesn't meet all the criteria - no need to go into that! Blessings to you and all who benefit from donated hair.
  • Valkerie Apr 23, 2012 @ 4:37 pm | delete
    I'd love to donate my hair, alas, it is chemically treated. My husband is undergoing daily cancer treatment right now and I see a lot of women in all stages of hair loss and growth.
  • mismatch Apr 23, 2012 @ 1:54 pm | delete
    Pity I did not come across this lens a month ago! I never thought about donating my hair -- so I just threw it away when I had to shave my head. Blessed this lens nevertheless for the good cause!
  • queenofduvetcovers Apr 23, 2012 @ 10:57 am | delete
    My daughter has waist length hair and she wants to get it cut soon. We are going to donate the hair when the cut does happen. This was very helpful, thank you. =)
  • gradientcat Apr 22, 2012 @ 2:55 pm | delete
    Interesting info, was thinking about cutting my hair, but I'll have to measure and see if it's long enough.
  • Digna Padilla Apr 6, 2012 @ 1:22 pm | delete
    my friend Irma wants to donate her dughter's hair that she recentlt cut, but
    she doesn't know where to go.
  • Ajeet Apr 5, 2012 @ 5:13 pm | delete
    Donating is always good. And I support that. But I still find hair-donation a little strange (and I do not mean any disrespect there.)
  • DeniseDurham2011 Mar 26, 2012 @ 10:56 am | delete
    I am growing my hair out right now. It is about a foot long & I want it to be quite a bit longer. Thank you so much for all the options of hair donation places! I only knew of one before today. Thanks, also, for listing the guidelines for each place.
  • tinamahan Mar 19, 2012 @ 7:18 pm | delete
    What a wonderful topic! Thank you for sharing the fabulous programs available. I keep my hair short now, but it used to be long. I wish that I would have known more about these programs then, as I would have loved to donate.
  • Dywaz Mar 18, 2012 @ 5:27 pm | delete
    half of year I grow hair and did not know about the option to donate. so sad : (
  • Rwagner Mar 16, 2012 @ 1:53 pm | delete
    my son has been growing his hair to donate. Thank you for this one stop shop of resources and information. It has been a year and a half in the making, he plans on cutting it in May. :)
  • Beetlemania Mar 6, 2012 @ 10:41 am | delete
    I did 2 donations, one at 12" and one at 20" to Locks of Love. They work with kids with alopecia, and since my husband has alopecia, that's where we wanted to help. Excellent lens!
  • goo2eyes Mar 1, 2012 @ 7:09 am | delete
    i have nothing to donate. my hair is always short when my husband is in town. when he is away for business, i have the chance to sport my hair longer. i save a lot of money on parlor visits because he is my hair stylist. that's his hobby. blessings for this charitable lens.
  • SammySpam Feb 28, 2012 @ 6:33 am | delete
    Very interesting! I would definitely consider doing it.
  • anonquid99 Feb 27, 2012 @ 11:09 pm | delete
    Feel free to ask your fiends to join you, make it a group challenge.
  • kevingomes13 Feb 27, 2012 @ 10:48 pm | delete
    I didn't know different groups had different requirements for hair. I like your lens.
  • Darkskeleton Feb 27, 2012 @ 2:42 pm | delete
    How desperate are these organizations for more hair? It seems like donating hair is pretty popular.
  • zillermil Feb 26, 2012 @ 8:22 pm | delete
    I'm psyched to see some of these take colored hair -- I have a ton of hair I want to chop off but thought I couldn't donate if I had colored it. Thanks for the tips!
  • goldenrulecomics Feb 26, 2012 @ 3:17 pm | delete
    My daughter has done this and it's really a great cause!
  • blogalexg Feb 25, 2012 @ 10:55 pm | delete
    Great Info! I am glad you are getting the word out! I have participated once already. I hope it will be second nature one day for myself and the world!
    Thanks again!
    Alex
  • athena2011 Feb 22, 2012 @ 10:46 am | delete
    I love the concept of donating hair. Also love the information you put together here. Squdiliked.
  • Feb 17, 2012 @ 12:16 pm | delete
    I've always thought about it but never really had all the information that your lens provided. Thank you.
  • JohnCake Feb 14, 2012 @ 7:36 pm | delete
    I never really gave hair donation any thought but I have always been considering getting my hair dramatically shortened and now I think my conscience will make me donate it.
  • j Feb 14, 2012 @ 6:11 pm | delete
    where can I get a free hair cut at t a salon to donate!!!! ( keep in mind I can offer tips!)
  • Karen May 6, 2012 @ 11:59 am | delete
    Ulta Salons offer free haircuts if you donate to Locks of Love.
  • intermarks Feb 6, 2012 @ 6:43 am | delete
    This is the first time I heard about hair donation, Thank for the great information.
  • sherridan Feb 1, 2012 @ 10:20 am | delete
    Too late for me - too old to grow it without resembling a grey haired old hag, but my daughter's is nearly waist length and she is bound to fancy a change in due course. It would feel really good to chop it for a good cause. Really enlightening lens, well deserving of the top 100.
  • Stephany Jan 30, 2012 @ 8:36 pm | delete
    I really want to donate my hair but not sure if my hair is acceptable, or meets the requirements. I dyed my hair black a few months ago, and recently dyed it with a semi permanent hair dye. Will my hair be accepted? Thanks
  • mamabush Jan 30, 2012 @ 7:40 am | delete
    My 5-year old wants to do this which is what led me to this lens. I am so proud of her, but as a mom, it is so hard to see her cut her long, beautiful hair! :) I think we wil be going through with it later today...so nervous!
  • dkatzaman Jan 25, 2012 @ 12:45 pm | delete
    My oldest daughter just got her hair cut a few days ago and is donating it. I have also donated my hair once. It is a great feeling to be helping others in such a way. Even my youngest daughter has donated her hair. She has been blessed with a beautiful reddish-brown hair color that many women wish could be bottled. She was happy to be able to share it.
  • webkangaroo Jan 20, 2012 @ 1:38 pm | delete
    Wish I had hair to donate. Nice lens -- really well-written and heart-felt!
  • Afteretc Jan 17, 2012 @ 5:11 pm | delete
    I have done this, but a long time ago! As a kid I had alopecia areata. Great lens!
  • mizzburdette Jan 15, 2012 @ 1:28 am | delete
    I wish i had longer hair i would do this!! love this lens
  • Mastersipep Jan 8, 2012 @ 5:25 pm | delete
    great lens! so touching... its not easy to grow your hair and watch it cut for 12 inches, but then it is more difficult for those cancer patients esp. children. they've lost their hair and even lost their hope and joy... lucky for those who have not suffered. how i wish everyone would participate in donating their hairs....
  • Angel_Lou Jan 8, 2012 @ 5:10 pm | delete
    Even if there were times to donate my hair - they are sadly over...
    Nice lens anyway!
  • Kristen Jan 4, 2012 @ 7:05 pm | delete
    I got my hair cut today and I am donating it. :) this is my second time doing it. I really love to do it.
  • Joie Jan 4, 2012 @ 4:17 pm | delete
    I've been thinking about this a lot lately, and have decided to donate my hair. That's why I did a Squidoo search today about hair donations. I'm so glad to have found you. I just haven't decided for sure which organization to donate to.
    This site is great and touches the heart. Thank you for all the videos! They are inspiring!
  • mediawizard Dec 23, 2011 @ 4:38 pm | delete
    This is so great that this Squidoo lens people are aware they can help people and especially children with hair loss.
  • niceman91 Dec 23, 2011 @ 7:17 am | delete
    I never thought of ways to donate hair before this.I love this lens since you listed a great way of how to make use of your hair instead of wasting it.Great job! :)
  • SquidooPower Dec 21, 2011 @ 8:01 pm | delete
    My wife is getting her hair cut to donate right now!
  • EeBooker Dec 21, 2011 @ 4:32 pm | delete
    interesting article!
  • thebestmousetrap Dec 20, 2011 @ 3:33 am | delete
    Its such a loving offer, not a sacrifice as some say, there isn't a nicer thing in the world than to do this.
  • JackieSonia Dec 19, 2011 @ 5:18 pm | delete
    My hair is down to my waist, but I've been told it wouldn't be accepted for donation since I straight iron my hair and before that I chemically straightened my hair. Would love to, though.
  • TopToysForKids Dec 14, 2011 @ 10:38 pm | delete
    Great lens, this is a wonderful cause, and way better than just getting it cut and thrown away! :)
  • Edutopia Dec 14, 2011 @ 11:31 am | delete
    Great lens! My girlfriend just recently went from mid-back length hair to a length that doesn't even come close to touching her shoulders and she donated all the hair they cut off.
  • baby-strollers Dec 12, 2011 @ 10:34 pm | delete
    I've got some hair I think I could part with!
  • fullofshoes Dec 11, 2011 @ 4:15 pm | delete
    This is a wonderful lens. Thank you for sharing your story.
  • Melissa Dec 7, 2011 @ 1:03 pm | delete
    Hi, this is a very useful lens! I'm almost 14, and I'm planning on donating my hair on my birthday, or maybe my 15th birthday if I can't convince my parents to let me, or if it's too short (haven't measured it yet, but it's pretty long). I kind of want to shave it all off... But I'm not sure. Is there anyone that could give me a bit more info on that?
    Thanks :)
  • LadyCharlie Nov 22, 2011 @ 8:03 pm | delete
    Great Lens and beautiful gift to people in need ... Thanks for sharing this information! Blessed
  • SiochainGraSonas Nov 13, 2011 @ 12:12 am | delete
    Great lens. I started growing my hair out a few months ago.
  • trees001 Nov 6, 2011 @ 4:33 pm | delete
    Such a wonderful gift to give! Thank you for sharing this!
  • wiedruce Nov 5, 2011 @ 4:55 am | delete
    Wow..I never thought of donating my hair until I get through your lens...I might think about it first since some part of my hair turns white...its natural when we're getting old!
  • madinvestment Nov 4, 2011 @ 9:49 pm | delete
    Thanks for this lens. One squid thumbs up vote issued!
  • camaster Oct 30, 2011 @ 2:27 pm | delete
    I already donated to Wigs for Kids. It's such a great idea, and even better to make a lens about, spreading the word about it is always a good thing. Thumb up!
  • andreaberrios Oct 22, 2011 @ 10:02 am | delete
    I've been thinking of doing this. My hair is so long, I need a change and it's such a great cause! Excellent idea!
  • Close2Art Oct 16, 2011 @ 6:38 pm | delete
    such a good cause, thanks so much for writing this page, blessed...
  • Hairdresser007 Oct 16, 2011 @ 12:48 am | delete
    Cut off at least 10+ inches on my client today with Light Blonde natural hair. It was so great! I should have done a before and after but was caught up in the moment! I think it's going to be perfect for someone!
  • TransplantedSoul Oct 14, 2011 @ 5:04 am | delete
    Wow... 1 in 3 women get diagnosed with cancer!!! I was nit aware it was that high. Thanks for the good write-up.
  • Merstarr Oct 12, 2011 @ 12:37 pm | delete
    Great cause & lens too!!
  • donatetimeshares Oct 11, 2011 @ 12:08 pm | delete
    Wow I have never had the courage to cut off all my hair so I can donate it. But you have given me the inspiration! Your lens is extremely informational. Continue the good work
  • JodiFromFlorida Oct 8, 2011 @ 10:14 pm | delete
    Great lens! I donated mine to Locks of Love.
  • Izzy Oct 3, 2011 @ 5:50 pm | delete
    For children with hair loss is high lighted hair acceptable? And is it okay if you have a phew longer layers?
  • SusanVillasLewis Oct 4, 2011 @ 7:46 am | delete
    Layers are just fine; highlights generally are not. One hairpiece uses hair from several people and they dye it all to match. Previously dyed or colored hair doesn't work as well for that step.
  • katemiya Oct 1, 2011 @ 2:27 pm | delete
    My sister donated her hair years ago. I've never been able to grow it long enough to be able to cut enough off at once for donation. Great lens!
  • Oct 1, 2011 @ 1:18 pm | delete
    You can also sell your hair to the hairtraders.com if you would like to make some money.
  • BusinessSarah Sep 29, 2011 @ 9:18 pm | delete
    This is a very informative hub!

    A hair stylist friend of mine told me that currently there's a surplus of donated hair just sitting there because organizations are having a tough time coming up with funds to actually make the wigs -- is there any truth to that? Are some organizations better than others in that respect?

    Thanks for the great information!
  • ModernChakra Sep 29, 2011 @ 1:50 pm | delete
    My girlfriend's hair is getting down to her belly button, and I was mentioning your pop tab Ronald McDonald lens to her and mentioned you had written 200+ lenses and shared the title to this one, with an instant response of "oh! send me that, I was wondering my options" So of course, thanks again for your time putting this together. You are clearly well versed in many topics and your writing is very easy to follow and be made useful. Please don't stop! Take care.
  • patricia jenkinson Sep 28, 2011 @ 12:40 pm | delete
    my hair was really long to but my sister in law has breast cancer and she has lost all hers so i am going to donate my hair on her behalf she also had long hair and before she started chemo she donated hers to i love her so much and if i can help her i am gonna and i love my hair to but i love her more and her lumps r shrinking and that is so wonderful and although she has cancer she is still going strong she is the a wonder person and has inspired me to help those who need it most i love u darcy marrs and i am very proud of u.
  • THANIA HUIZAR Sep 27, 2011 @ 10:41 pm | delete
    hi mi nAME IS THANIA AND MY HUSBAND AND I DECIDED TO CUT OUR DAUGHTERS HAIR BUT WE CANT FIND A PLACE TO DONATED... WHERE CAN WE DO IT????
  • samsaradakini Sep 27, 2011 @ 3:29 am | delete
    i love how you were so detailed in explaining each charities requirements. i had no idea a ponytail or braid was mandatory. [now i do not know what to do with the loose hair i have in a baggy...] but that is okay, because i will grow it again and this time know what to do.
  • Formosangirl Sep 26, 2011 @ 11:52 am | delete
    I've donated my hair for last times to Locks of Love, and my daughter has only donated hair (never merely a haircut because she has beautiful child's hair). Thanks for the lens.
  • JeanJohnson Sep 25, 2011 @ 6:48 pm | delete
    I'm growing my daughters hair out so that she can donate it. I was happy to find your lens because I have been wondering how to go about donating. thanks
  • RuthMadison Sep 22, 2011 @ 11:11 am | delete
    I'm glad that some people want to donate their hair. Before they do, I hope they will carefully research all the claims of the charity! HOWEVER, people must realize that it is not appropriate to ask someone like me (with hip-length hair) when I'm going to donate. My hair is my business and I'm keeping it. That doesn't make me selfish. I love my hair. If anyone else asks me that, I'm going to ask them when they're donating their shoes.
  • Vicky Hops Sep 21, 2011 @ 3:44 am | delete
    Hi guys, I am a South African university student and i am wanting to do drive for hair donations. However I dont want to donate to a charity that doesnt help international cases. Can anybody help me? I just feel that cancer is an international problem, so why limit it to one area that benefits? Any help would be great :)
  • ana_nimoss Sep 20, 2011 @ 4:42 pm | delete
    My child donated her hair and received a thank you postcard. She can't wait for her hair to grow back, so she can donate more. Great cause, isn't it!
  • Jolene_Belmain Sep 17, 2011 @ 8:04 pm | delete
    Absolutely FABULOUS lens, and for great causes for sure... thumbs way way up from me :)
  • franstan Sep 16, 2011 @ 9:57 am | delete
    When I was teaching in Northern Alberta, one of the teachers on staff used to grow her hair and donate it on a regular basis.
  • LaurenIM Sep 16, 2011 @ 5:36 am | delete
    I've donated my hair about three times I think. May do it again someday if I let it grow that long again.
  • Marge Sep 14, 2011 @ 8:26 pm | delete
    I have donated my hair at least 5 times (Lost count.) I'm looking to do the next very soon. I get my hair cut and every 2-2 1/2 yrs. I usually donate 12-16" to locks of love, but someone told me they no longer donate to them because locks of love now has the receiver of the wig pay for it. Does any one know if this is true? What organizations give the wigs for free?
  • SusanVillasLewis Nov 21, 2011 @ 9:45 am | delete
    I'm not sure Locks of Love has ever given wigs away for free. It's been on a sliding ability-to-pay scale for as long as I can remember. I think Pantene gives them for free, but I'm not sure about others.
  • inward Sep 14, 2011 @ 10:30 am | delete
    Have donated my hair a couple of times. It's nice to know that someone who really wants it will get it.
  • KathyMcGraw Sep 13, 2011 @ 9:26 pm | delete
    My friend is going through Chemo and it is so true that the hair loss was almost as dramatic for her as the mastectomy. This is a good article with good resources...*Blessed*
  • AdrianaCopaceanu Sep 13, 2011 @ 11:50 am | delete
    I donated my hair twice so far, and I hope to do it again. Jut have to wait until it gets longer, as this time i don't want really short hair myself.
  • bhthanks Sep 9, 2011 @ 10:17 am | delete
    sounds like a good thing to do, but don't know if i could grow my hair that long and then cut it
  • beatricezuck Sep 8, 2011 @ 3:57 am | delete
    i would really love to donate my hair too.., but since i have a very short hair right now, i'm not able to donate.. :(
  • kimadagem Sep 7, 2011 @ 2:43 pm | delete
    I've done this twice now and am working on donation #3. I highly recommend it, for two reasons. 1) The last time I donated one of the other stylists told me she'd been helping some of her customers choose wigs and she'd noticed the price of the "real hair" wigs was coming way down - to the point where a lot more people could afford them. I really think that's because of all the donations. And 2) It makes you feel good! Whenever I used to get my hair cut I could never do more than a couple of inches because it felt so *drastic* to do more than that - it would take me a long time to get used to it. So I never went from "long" to "short" hair all at once; it had to be a gradual process, over several haircuts. But not anymore.
  • jaycee Sep 7, 2011 @ 2:04 pm | delete
    Is there anyone left who doesn't have a minimum length (or at least a lower one)? I've been growing my hair out specifically for this since November....up to 5 inches now. I plan to cut it December 1st, but I won't make the 8 inch minimal that all these places require. Matter of Trust didn't have a minimum, but they say they no longer take hair donations.
  • SusanVillasLewis Sep 7, 2011 @ 3:40 pm | delete
    Sorry - I don't know of any groups that take shorter lengths of hair. I know if you send shorter hair to Locks of Love, it goes in their "to sell" pile, so they do get some benefit out of your donation. If you absolutely have to cut your hair Dec. 1, that's about your only option.
  • davidcam Aug 28, 2011 @ 10:14 pm | delete
    Great lens for those considering the chop!!!!
  • Patti & Lilliana Aug 27, 2011 @ 11:41 am | delete
    My 5 year old grand daughter decided yesterday that she would like to donate her hair to children with cancer. We watched a tv show that not only saddened her for a bit, but also inspired her to do what she can to help. She has very long blonde hair and wants to get her hair cut short. We just need a reputable organization to send it to, know of any? Thanks.
  • SusanVillasLewis Aug 27, 2011 @ 12:31 pm | delete
    Patti - that's pretty much what's on this page. You had to go past all the groups to get to this section. Just pick the one that most closely matches her reasons for wanting to donate.
  • Kristy Aug 23, 2011 @ 8:27 am | delete
    I would really like to donate my hair but it has been dyed. Does anyone know where I can send it that will accept my blonde hair? it is in excellent condition, and 10 inches long.
  • katprice Aug 22, 2011 @ 3:27 pm | delete
    I donated once to Locks of Love in 2003. I had to remember not to squeeze so much shampoo into my hand. Short hair just needs a tiny amount.
  • Fushi Aug 19, 2011 @ 6:09 am | delete
    "Susan" Your lens is a great inspiration to one who is need of a new look with style donating hair with would be a great cause. Hair is a symbol of beauty but it needs care and affection to maintain it. Hats off for a great lens keep it up
  • Wendy M. Aug 18, 2011 @ 1:59 am | delete
    I have donated my hair 2 times...Is a great feeeling...I wish I would have done it all the times before I cut my hair and never was asked if I wish to donate it... I would do it again and again... even my niece cut it and I have her ponytail here and we are going to send it to locs of love...
  • TIRMassageStone Aug 15, 2011 @ 4:57 pm | delete
    I personally know several people who have benefited from donated hair. I think it is a noble donation and has a far more reaching psychological effect than anything else.
  • lallaig19 Aug 13, 2011 @ 1:06 pm | delete
    This seems like its a very good thing to do!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
  • atticanibal Aug 12, 2011 @ 6:09 am | delete
    Wow .Didnt know u can donate your hair :P
  • jamie derosia Aug 11, 2011 @ 7:45 pm | delete
    my daughter wants to donate her hair but theres no way i can have 8 inches in length cut off. does anyone happen to know of a group that will accept hair shorter the 8 inches
  • Ruthie Aug 11, 2011 @ 6:08 pm | delete
    This article was very helpful on guiding me through the hair donation process. I just cut off 10 inches and will be sending it off to Pantene Beautiful Lengths. I love my hair but I know it will mean so much more to a woman in need.
  • terrapin719 Aug 11, 2011 @ 12:05 am | delete
    *~*~*~*sprinkles of SquidAngel dust*~*~*~*
  • Paloma09 Aug 8, 2011 @ 4:42 pm | delete
    my little sister wants to donate her hair but she wants to have a relation ship with the girl but i have no idea where to go or sign up ?
    i need help .
  • SusanVillasLewis Aug 8, 2011 @ 9:26 pm | delete
    That's great! However, it takes hair from more than one person to make a hairpiece and none of the organizations that make them track whose hair goes to whom. She can certainly donate to a group and certainly get to know someone who needs a hairpiece, but that's outside what the groups that take hair donations handle. Sorry.
  • SuperBusyMoms Aug 6, 2011 @ 10:55 pm | delete
    Great lens for those considering the chop!
  • kopitozie Aug 3, 2011 @ 6:21 am | delete
    Nice idea about hair donate
  • Marlene Jul 26, 2011 @ 9:45 pm | delete
    I just cut my hair and would like to donate it for children or women. It is colored hair and braid length is 18 inches. I would like to deliver it in person - I will not send via mail.
  • SusanVillasLewis Jul 27, 2011 @ 9:18 am | delete
    Marlene, you need to read through the information on the groups to determine which ones will take colored hair. I'm sure they'd be thrilled to have a braid that long, but most don't accept colored hair. Their sites also give information on where to send the hair, which is likely to be the same location for taking it in person.
  • karlawhitmore Jul 19, 2011 @ 11:25 am | delete
    Love your lens! Wonderful job! I've been thinking of growing my hair out some more and then donating it.Thanks for the information.
  • Resjes Jul 18, 2011 @ 4:08 pm | delete
    This is a great cause - I donated my hair to Locks of Love last year. It was sad to have short hair but it was for an important cause. :)
  • TIRMassageStone Jul 15, 2011 @ 11:27 am | delete
    Great way to contribute to someone who really is in need of hair.
  • LetsWingIt Jul 9, 2011 @ 9:27 pm | delete
    Very thoughtful and indeed a great way to help out with something you naturally have and do not need. This also work for men as long as our hair is nice and long perhaps?
  • rangiiria Jul 9, 2011 @ 9:00 pm | delete
    Like this - thanks.
  • Marciajane Jul 9, 2011 @ 5:43 pm | delete
    Wow! What a fantastic and informative lens - I've never heard of this before. Thankyou for opening my eyes - hair is a big issue to me as I suffered Trichotillomania as a child (when one pulls out their own hair) and I have written a lens on my experience. I'm going to look further into things you have mentioned and hope I can bring some joy to someone by donating my own hair (which did grow back) when it gets a bit longer. I'm so glad I found this lens and have bookmarked it for future reference - thanks!!
  • love4rocks Jul 7, 2011 @ 5:42 pm | delete
    What a great idea.
  • clfischer99 Jul 6, 2011 @ 3:03 pm | delete
    This is a great idea! My mother dealt with cancer for years, and I wish she could have taken advantage of this.
  • Tolovaj Jul 3, 2011 @ 5:29 am | delete
    Interesting idea. Too pitty it is too late for my hair, the years took their toll. Maybe I can still grow a pony tail? Thanks for this lens:)
  • frankie juarez jr Jul 3, 2011 @ 1:02 am | delete
    my mom had cancer, she battled it for years, thank you GOD, she beat the odds and beat the cancer, she did lose her hair, and it really disturbed her in the morn not being able to fix yourself up , so i decided to grow out my hair, i am her son, i have been growing it out since 2009 and now in dallas tx july 2011 i am donating it to locks of love, my baby from australia will be here to witness the cutting, good luck to all frankie juarez jr sa tx
  • mamamia2011 Jul 2, 2011 @ 9:35 pm | delete
    i want to cut my long hair but now i know what to do to the cuttings. thanks for this lens. :)
  • mulkurnia Jul 2, 2011 @ 5:35 am | delete
    Wow, Never heard of this before. Hair donation is an interesting new concept to me. I do not know whether there is a such charity in Singapore.
  • Serj Jun 28, 2011 @ 1:16 am | delete
    Pretty interesting...albeit donating your own hair seems a bit bizarre
  • timothy hibbard Jun 25, 2011 @ 1:19 am | delete
    i want to find out info about the organazations that take hair for cancer patients my dad died of cancer in 08 and before he cut it it was to his shoulders mines past my shoulders a inch
  • Rachel Jun 22, 2011 @ 10:41 am | delete
    Does anyone know of salons in the Boston, MA area that offer free haircuts for hair donations?
  • jewelkid87 Jun 21, 2011 @ 11:56 am | delete
    I donated my hair for the first time about a year ago. My hair is all grown out and is ready for a second donation!
  • LAZI Jun 21, 2011 @ 4:58 am | delete
    I first heard of hair donation few years ago. Want to congratulate all donors.your doing a great thing.
  • eshorad Jun 20, 2011 @ 2:56 pm | delete
    Wow! I know a lot of people who can benefit from this info! thank you very much for building this lense! xD
  • SocialpathFree Jun 18, 2011 @ 8:59 pm | delete
    A great idea for those that have enough hair!
  • StellaSingles Jun 15, 2011 @ 8:54 pm | delete
    A friend of mine just did this today, and while hesitant at first she finally realized it was for a great cause. She was blessed with a lot of hair, so why not deliver some hope to someone who is less fortunate. before long, I'm sure she'll be back to her "belly button length" hair again.
  • Texas_Avon_Rep Jun 15, 2011 @ 2:40 pm | delete
    I actually got my haircut for donation just this morning.
  • jder Jun 14, 2011 @ 4:36 pm | delete
    As you can see from my picture, I need to grow a lot more hair before I can donate!
  • Gerald_McConway Jun 9, 2011 @ 8:57 am | delete
    Thanks, was looking for this information for my girlfriend who is getting ready to cut about 18 inches off the back of her hair. Nice job!
  • WeGotNthToDo Jun 5, 2011 @ 1:12 pm | delete
    So mostly hair donator should be girl? o.O
    And thanks for sharing!
  • SusanVillasLewis Jun 5, 2011 @ 4:48 pm | delete
    Gender is irrelevant. It's just that it's more common for women to have long hair and to care about covering a bald head with a wig. So the entire process naturally attracts more women.
  • pamela Jun 4, 2011 @ 10:29 am | delete
    I have had long hair most of my life. Recently I have lost loved ones to cancer. I want to donate my hair in honor of them. I was very disappointed to learn that even the organizations that make wigs for adults didn't accept gray hair. I am really torn now on what to do. Any suggestions?
  • Jen Jun 28, 2011 @ 1:44 am | delete
    Wigs for Kids and Children with Hairloss accept gray hair for wigs! I'm assuming they dye it later. Locks of Love accepts gray hair as well, although they sell it to offset prices, so if you want to directly benefit people with cancer and other diseases, I'd suggest going with Wigs for Kids or Children with Hairloss.
  • robinrags Jun 3, 2011 @ 7:55 pm | delete
    Very nice lens Susan ... thanks!
  • achraf May 26, 2011 @ 3:42 am | delete
    so many easy ways to make others feel better. giving money is not the only way to help!
  • Mrmakingusmile May 24, 2011 @ 8:41 pm | delete
    Awesome lens. I wondered about guys who tell me they grow there hair long to donate. Thanks for making me smile.
  • MareeT May 24, 2011 @ 6:23 pm | delete
    Love this! What a wonderful way to help others!
  • Wedding_Mom May 21, 2011 @ 9:27 am | delete
    Thank so much for sharing these information. It would be such a privileged to be able to do something even if its a small thing for you but it is already a big thing for others. This is truly a remarkable lens.=)
  • avgsuperheroine May 18, 2011 @ 1:34 pm | delete
    I donated my hair once a few years ago. I even discovered a new favorite hair style by trying it.
  • propertyandlandsale May 17, 2011 @ 6:55 am | delete
    Having lost good friends, and seeing friends lose cherished little ones, this lens is moving. Thank you for creating it.
  • kerjapartime May 15, 2011 @ 5:37 am | delete
    I never think about this.good lens.
  • GoAceNate May 9, 2011 @ 10:07 am | delete
    Wow great lens. I'll be showing it some social love today. My brother and all his friends donated there long hair in a group effort.
  • Jeanette Harris May 8, 2011 @ 7:17 pm | delete
    Why won't the cancer society take salt and pepper hair? I know older people have cancer and lose their hair in treatment and need wigs and can't afford to buy them outright. My mother had cancer at age eight-eight, had surgery removing the lump and cancer. She is taking treatment for prevention and her hair is thinning.
  • SusanVillasLewis May 8, 2011 @ 7:38 pm | delete
    It comes down to two things - 1) most of the groups make hair pieces for children, not adults. So they don't want hair that has gone gray. And 2) gray hair doesn't take dye the same way, which makes it difficult to get all the hair the same color for a hairpiece. Since it takes hair from at least six people to make one hairpiece, they have to be able to dye it all the same color.
  • Debbie Potrok May 17, 2011 @ 7:37 am | delete
    I don't understand why a wig cannot be made from gray/white hair. I have cut 12 inches off my hair which is more than 90% white. Why not make a wig and NOT dye it. Don't you think elderly women suffering from cancer would like a wig of their own color instead of a dyed wig. If I had cancer I would not like to be forced into changing my natural appearance because no group makes wigs for older people. What do you think?
  • SusanVillasLewis May 17, 2011 @ 7:49 am | delete
    I don't necessarily disagree, Debbie. But with the exception of the Pantene program, these groups make hairpieces for kids. Which wouldn't want gray hair. As for Pantene, I'm sure trying to get just the right amount of gray hair all with the same amount of gray is just a bit tricky and would result in long waits for a hairpiece until they got it right. I don't know. I can only tell you what they say about why they do it.
  • Kim Jun 3, 2011 @ 3:22 am | delete
    I have heard that some take gray hair but sell it to wig companies. It may not make it into a free wig, but at least the profits do still help.
  • scarlettohairy May 7, 2011 @ 12:59 pm | delete
    My daughter and daughter-in-law have donated their hair several times. I wear mine short so won't be doing that but think it's wonderful thing to do!!
  • Jyoti Jain May 4, 2011 @ 1:38 am | delete
    Nice lens, hair donation for Childhood Leukemia Foundation and for children with hair loss, 2 reason is dominating me .
  • HomepageHeroes May 2, 2011 @ 10:29 pm | delete
    Very nice lens. My wife has donated her hair in the past to Locks of Love. She is getting ready to do it again. Great cause, great lens. I'm going to favorite it and lensroll it with my lenses.
  • CuppaJo May 2, 2011 @ 12:25 pm | delete
    This has been something I wish I could do but unfortunately my hair just doesn't get that long.
  • RetroMom May 1, 2011 @ 10:12 am | delete
    This is very inspiring. Donating hair may be one of the most beautiful thing a person can do to a person who is fighting such illness. It's like your own little way of telling that they are not alone and we are supporting their fight. Thanks so much for sharing this information. What a heart-warming piece!
  • pawpaw911 Apr 29, 2011 @ 4:45 pm | delete
    Thanks for this lens. My sister inlaw is going through Chemo right now, so thanks for her.
  • StacyBirch Apr 28, 2011 @ 10:23 pm | delete
    Next year will be my 4th time donating my hair.
  • Jennifer Apr 27, 2011 @ 3:18 pm | delete
    Thanks a bunch
  • Jennifer Apr 27, 2011 @ 12:07 pm | delete
    Hi, I have a 7 year old with Red hair who has never had it cut since birth. Since it's past her butt, I am allowing her to cut it in the next month or so. I would like to donate her hair to a child who needs it. I'm looking for an address or the proper envelope to mail it in to assure it reaches an organization for a needy child. I would also like to know if there's any organizations who would allow a photo of the child with the donated hair piece for my child to see what cutting her hair has done for another child who can't grow their own. Please respond ASAP. Thank you so much for your help in advance! We have a whole 12 inches to spare! My email is jenn01220@yahoo.com for anyone who wishes to reply. Thanks again!
  • SusanVillasLewis Apr 27, 2011 @ 12:37 pm | delete
    Jennifer - I don't normally publish comments with email addresses for privacy reasons, but I wanted to be able to respond. The other pages of this site have links to all the different organizations where you can send your daughter's hair. They will have the addresses on them, as well as pictures of children in need of hairpieces. I have never heard of a donation group sending pictures in their thank you letters - again, probably for privacy reasons. But there are pictures and stories on most of the sites if you click through to read them.
  • teresa aguilar Apr 25, 2011 @ 6:45 pm | delete
    my daughter is 6 years old one of the girls in her school has no hair, and other girls make fun of her one day my daughter came home crying and saying mom i want you to cut my hair and make a wig for the little girl at my school she really touch my heart and a have asked her are u sure you want to do this and she said yes mom i do want to donate my hair.
  • JamieSueAustin Apr 24, 2011 @ 8:31 pm | delete
    My husband donated 18 inches to locks of love. The stylist cut his hair for free!! I donated once, but I have trouble keeping my hair healthy when it's long.
  • terrygw Apr 23, 2011 @ 7:12 am | delete
    I find it quite useful for anyone who want to donate but don't have cash.
  • RubyRavn Apr 22, 2011 @ 11:54 am | delete
    Great information for those who choose to donate. I have hair below my butt and I will never cut it. While I respect those who do, what I don't appreciate are the people (strangers) that walk up to inform me that I "need" to cut my hair and donate it. When I inform them that I won't do that they get very irate. Even after telling them that my mother died of cancer at the age of 56, and when I offered to cut my hair so she could have a wig from it (its very thick & heavy - the type she'd wished for her whole life), she absolutely refused, saying that it was "very pretty right where it its."

    Huge kudos to those who can & will do this, but please don't be one of those extremely rude people who berates a total strange for their choices. I make my donations in other forms, my hair just won't be one of them.
  • JamieSueAustin Apr 24, 2011 @ 8:32 pm | delete
    People really do that? Jerks! I would have never thought to say that to someone.
  • TwoDogHouse Apr 21, 2011 @ 6:22 pm | delete
    My grandaughers have donated there hair to Locks of Love. It made them feel great and grandma was so very proud. Great lens.
  • JanezKranjski Apr 19, 2011 @ 5:53 pm | delete
    Great idea, if you want to donate something, but you don't have money or other resources.
  • DevBlue Apr 19, 2011 @ 1:35 pm | delete
    This is new to me. I could never have thought of this. Good, original lens.
  • sathimanoj Apr 19, 2011 @ 5:36 am | delete
    I never think about this kind of Donation
  • pheonix76 Apr 15, 2011 @ 10:38 pm | delete
    Excellent lens. I have long hair and when it's time for a trim I will be donating my hair thanks to your informative lens! Thank you for sharing this with us.
  • linseeturner Apr 11, 2011 @ 5:16 pm | delete
    What an inspiring lens...donation can do A LOT of good!
  • kauser shah Apr 11, 2011 @ 9:38 am | delete
    my son is 16yrs old...grown his hair upto 10 inches.maybe a little longer...he wants 2 donate it to cancer research...cant find hair dresser that will assist....
  • SusanVillasLewis Apr 11, 2011 @ 1:30 pm | delete
    Any hairdresser can just cut a ponytail off for you. Actually, you can do that yourself. Or are you trying to find someone to cut it for free? That's a different ball of wax and no way to find that other than call around. But you don't need anything fancy to actually make the cut. Just make a pony tail and whack away. (You might want a hairdresser for after that though to ensure you still look good. :-)
  • ndasika Apr 11, 2011 @ 1:56 am | delete
    This is a great lens. Donation of hair is great way to give back to those who lost their hair. Thanks for sharing.
  • KathyT Apr 10, 2011 @ 2:48 pm | delete
    I think that this is fantastic. My own hair doesn't seem to ever grow longer than what you see in my photo - just kind of "splits" and disappears. It's really very fine. I'm grateful that I have it, however, and have great admiration for people who donate their hair. You did a great job on this lens! :) Kath
  • suzycarpenter Apr 9, 2011 @ 9:50 am | delete
    This is a great lens! My grand daughter and her boyfriend are in the process of growing their hair long enough to donate. Will fwd this to them. Thanks Suzy
  • whaleriders6 Apr 7, 2011 @ 9:05 pm | delete
    I've done this 4 times now...and will do it again! Great lens to raise awareness about a fantastic cause.
  • beardedman Apr 3, 2011 @ 12:22 pm | delete
    It's always a nice thing to donate anything to those who can use it!
  • R Bobino Apr 2, 2011 @ 11:01 pm | delete
    I want to donate my hair however it is not quite 10 inches. It is about 8 inches and grey. more salt and pepper. I want to know If this is possible ? If so where and how.
  • JamieSueAustin Apr 24, 2011 @ 8:36 pm | delete
    Locks of Love takes shorter and gray hair. It isn't put into children's wigs, but they do sell it off to offset manufacturing costs, so it still helps a child.
  • awelldressedbullet Apr 1, 2011 @ 7:51 am | delete
    ~ Dropping by to leave my Angels April Fools' Day Quest Blessings ~

    It may be April Fools Day, but this lens is no joke, I was very proud to donate my hair back in January, after having 14" cut off, what a wonderful feeling
  • Marcie Mar 29, 2011 @ 8:02 pm | delete
    I have hair that grows very fast, so whenever it reaches past my waist, I cut a foot of it off and donate it to Locks of Love, In my life (I'm 32), I have donated over 6 feet of hair. I support all who "take the plunge" and donate! :)
  • joycetmann Mar 29, 2011 @ 9:10 am | delete
    My son grew his hair really long -- almost to his waist -- then donated it to locks of love. great lens!
  • eclecticfuzz Mar 28, 2011 @ 2:28 am | delete
    It's great to find concise information on this. :)
  • Threetaylors Mar 22, 2011 @ 8:35 pm | delete
    I just cut off 12 inches again. This is my fourth time I am donating my hair since I found out about the programs to donate hair. I am Japanese and my hair grows very long and very thick. The way I see it, it's hair and I am lucky it always grows back. Think of that poor child who can not grow hair!
  • JeremiahStanghini Mar 22, 2011 @ 1:26 pm | delete
    I've seen a lot of "Locks of Love" donations made... I think one day, I just might be able to donate my hair. :-)

    With Love and Gratitude,

    Jeremiah
  • Jan Mar 18, 2011 @ 10:51 am | delete
    The donation pages on Locks of Love's and Pantene's websites both state that color-treated hair IS acceptable under certain circumstances. For instance, Pantene accepts hair colored with rinses, vegetable dyes or semi-permanent colors, but not hair that's been bleached. So, FWIW, here are the links:
    Locks of Love's donation page: http://www.locksoflove.org/donate.html
    Pantene's donation page: http://www.pantene.com/en-US/beautiful-lengths-cause/Pages/hair-donation-requirements.aspx
    I started in September 2009 with a very short style so it's taking awhile to get it all one length and then letting that previously shortest length grow out - it's about halfway down my back now. Another year or more to go.
  • lizziehumphreys Mar 15, 2011 @ 7:12 pm | delete
    ive always thought about donating my hair to charity, but i'm not sure i would have the courage! i know that sounds awful :( my hair is really long and i have grown it for years...im not ready to let go of it yet, maybe some day though!
  • Jessica Mar 11, 2011 @ 4:42 pm | delete
    Can you donate hair if your hair is dyed ?
  • SusanVillasLewis Mar 12, 2011 @ 8:21 am | delete
    Jessica - if you look right above this section, you'll see the link to not only the fact that it's generally not accepted, but why. This does vary by group, though, so read through the page with the different groups to see if you find one that fits your needs.
  • free-ebooks-online Mar 9, 2011 @ 9:54 pm | delete
    Great lens! I never thought of the dying issue. Good to know.
  • Renee Mar 4, 2011 @ 4:18 pm | delete
    If my hair was bleeched a year ago will some organizations (such as locks for love) take it?
  • Angela_Rosas Mar 3, 2011 @ 2:20 pm | delete
    My sister just donated her hair to locks of love. It was so long, down to her hips before.
  • Zada Mar 1, 2011 @ 6:25 pm | delete
    I have a daughter with alopetia areata...her daughter wants to donate her hair to be used for her Mom a wig.... is that possible? If so, what does she need to do.
  • SusanVillasLewis Mar 2, 2011 @ 7:55 am | delete
    The only way I know to donate hair to a specific person is to have a wig specially made yourself. There is no way for the groups to guarantee that your granddaughter's hair would go to your daughter. And hairpieces usually use hair from 6-12 people at a time, so I'm not sure she could donate enough for one piece. That would be a question for a wigmaker.
  • Mike Feb 26, 2011 @ 6:10 am | delete
    My son has waist length dredlocks he would like to donate, are these acceptable to anyone?
    Please advise who would be interested and how to proceed. gilesathome@hotmail.co.uk
    Thanks
    M
  • SusanVillasLewis Feb 26, 2011 @ 8:35 am | delete
    The instructions for every group I'm familiar with very explicitly say dreadlocks aren't acceptable. There was a big brouha here in the states a few years ago when a famous athlete cut his off to donate to Locks of Love and was rejected. They just aren't usable for a hairpiece. But if anyone knows of one - post it here so I can add it.
  • bigredmarketing Feb 26, 2011 @ 12:46 am | delete
    My wife has done this at least three times. I really do appreciate the people willing to do this. Such a giving gesture.
  • aakashmittal92 Feb 25, 2011 @ 6:04 am | delete
    I want to but now i can't.
  • 2010JenniferP Feb 15, 2011 @ 10:13 pm | delete
    My sister was talking about this last year, I will have to check with her and see if she went through with it. I would have never guessed there was such a demand for it...I am sure it feels good to do the deed and know your helping others...
  • M_Moore Feb 13, 2011 @ 8:04 am | delete
    Very informative, and I didnt know so much about donating hair.....didnt realize all the resources that were out there to do this....thanks for the information!
  • nancymcconnell Feb 12, 2011 @ 7:33 am | delete
    Nice Lens, my Grandaughter donated her hair!!
  • ArtisticCupcake Feb 11, 2011 @ 6:09 am | delete
    My hair is super long, but parts are dyed auburn or chestnut. Do, I wait until the color is gone?
  • Jmanna Feb 16, 2011 @ 8:15 am | delete
    Most donation places prefer natural colored hair but I believe they can dye it just like hair on your head. I imagine they have to dye some hair to get enough uniformly colored hair to make one wig (it takes a lot).
  • jvsper63 Feb 10, 2011 @ 10:01 pm | delete
    Hi This is a great topic. my hairs not long enough great lens
  • dezwards Feb 7, 2011 @ 9:06 am | delete
    You learn something new every day! Fascinating lens. Many thanks!
  • Priscilla G Feb 6, 2011 @ 9:13 pm | delete
    Last summer I donated 10 inches, my hair is so thick they had to separate into 4 braids. It took me a good 2 years of loving care. My question is if I intend to donate again next year can I use a tax deduction the cost of the care i.e. salon trimmings/shampooing as a charitable donation or the value of hair?
  • SusanVillasLewis Feb 10, 2011 @ 8:28 am | delete
    Um. I have no clue. My guess is the best you would get is the value of the hair. You don't get to deduct the cost of drycleaning when you donate a coat to Goodwill; it probably falls within that same concept. And I'm not even sure about the value of the hair part. The charity would have to issue a statement to you with that dollar amount on it and they aren't in the habit of doing that. Would just add to the administrative cost and burden.
  • jmanna Feb 16, 2011 @ 8:19 am | delete
    Hair is a body part, like blood. Either you get paid upfront for the hair or you donate, but you can't take a tax deduction.
  • rose o breeding Feb 5, 2011 @ 10:16 pm | delete
    Dear Sally Bo,
    Locks of Love will accept your donation. Ck the website for specifications.God bless you--RMB
  • lynnrdavis Feb 4, 2011 @ 8:03 pm | delete
    This is so awesome. What an opportunity to be a blessing!
  • Sally Bo. Feb 1, 2011 @ 4:16 pm | delete
    Followed all the instructions, cut 18-19 inches of virgin hair, never bleached, colored, rinsed, dyed, however I am a mature woman with salt and pepper hair. My purpose along was to donate and would be horrifide to know it could not be used because its gray. I have 2 friends with the same color hair that's been lost to cancer and were overjoyed to know of my decision to donate my hair. I am always told I have beautiful thick hair from friends and hair dresser. Question: was my sacrifice for nothing???
  • SusanVillasLewis Feb 1, 2011 @ 9:42 pm | delete
    Depends on the group you're donating to. Some have no problem with gray, some only want hair with no more than 10-15% gray, some won't take gray at all. It's usually listed in in the information/directions for donating for the specific group. And it doesn't hurt to double-check with them to ensure it's acceptable.
  • MindProjects Jan 29, 2011 @ 7:46 am | delete
    I didn't know it is possible to donate at all.
  • Hayley Jan 28, 2011 @ 5:53 pm | delete
    I'm wanting to donate my hair foe awhile... its almost at my but, but I've been told by so many they wont except died hair, I havent died it in over a year and a half closer to two years... is this true???
  • SusanVillasLewis Jan 28, 2011 @ 7:47 pm | delete
    You might not have dyed your hair in a while, but the ends of your hair were probably around when you did dye it. The previously dyed parts need to be grown out and trimmed off before you start measuring to make a cut for donation.
  • its4hry Jan 27, 2011 @ 5:46 pm | delete
    i did donate my hair to locks of love
  • tobejim Jan 27, 2011 @ 3:50 pm | delete
    Only if I was paid to do it - but I guess that isn't donating then.
  • Harshitha Jan 27, 2011 @ 11:16 am | delete
    I didn't know about donating hair. thanks to you now I do. Yes I wish to donate my hair once it grows long enough. (got it cut in December)
  • MoiraCrochetsPlarn Jan 26, 2011 @ 11:07 pm | delete
    i am planning to donate mine, but i don't know what charities here in the Philippines accepts such.
  • najem Jan 22, 2011 @ 3:28 am | delete
    I did not know that was even possible and now it is so easy.
  • AshAffiches Jan 23, 2011 @ 3:58 am | delete
    Yup. People have been "donating" their hair in india for hundreds of years
  • dreamtravelvacation Jan 20, 2011 @ 10:46 pm | delete
    How perfect for me to come across your lens. 16 years ago, I had chopped my hair off and donated them to Locks of Love. After reading your lens, I looked up Pantene and saw that they accept at least 8" and less than 5% gray. Guess I better hurry up before my hair goes all gray. :-)
  • HiatusBath Jan 20, 2011 @ 8:04 pm | delete
    I've thought about this several times. I think it's a wonderful thing to do. I'm waiting for my hair to grow out right not but it won't be long until I want it short again. I'll have to donate then.
  • DestinationsHoliday Jan 16, 2011 @ 9:47 pm | delete
    I am proud of my kids. Both have donated more than 10 inches of hair to Locks of Love! Well written article and thank you for sharing!
  • dogodor Jan 16, 2011 @ 3:32 pm | delete
    Locks of Love! I love those guys. It is a great non-profit.
  • Pam Sender Jan 16, 2011 @ 9:42 pm | delete
    Please read the whole lens before stating how much you love them
  • Richard_Ark Jan 15, 2011 @ 6:28 am | delete
    Great lens & Congrats in making the overall top 100..!
  • vinayg972010 Jan 13, 2011 @ 3:46 am | delete
    In our country India their is a temple called Tirupati where people donate their hairs for getting blessings from god. Millions of people donate their here every year at this temple.
  • Craftybegonia Jan 12, 2011 @ 5:04 pm | delete
    That is a great thing to do! Especially, children that donate their hair to other kids (like in the case of Locks of Love) who have lost their hair because of alopecia or chemo, so that they will not be mocked in school. Great lens. Voted up.
  • compugraphd Jan 11, 2011 @ 9:13 pm | delete
    ב"ה

    You missed one choice in your poll -- My hair doesn't grow long enough. :-D - that's the choice I would pick....
  • jamiew23 Jan 11, 2011 @ 6:07 am | delete
    Wow I never knew you could do this, I'll spread the word. Thank you for the info :)
  • chocsie Jan 10, 2011 @ 11:24 am | delete
    a few years ago, i cut off 17 inches of my hair and gave it to locks of love. i really felt good when i got back a note and knew that I'd helped somebody :) great lens, btw!
  • Philippians468 Jan 10, 2011 @ 12:13 am | delete
    this is meaningful and benefits so many. thank you for this lens!
  • DavidCzajka Jan 7, 2011 @ 6:45 am | delete
    Hehe First time i have read this kind of thing :P hope that i will try this thing out someday ;) because of my long hairs
  • sig2k30 Jan 5, 2011 @ 7:37 pm | delete
    This cool lens, know i know what next use of my hair
  • Dorishappy Jan 4, 2011 @ 9:58 pm | delete
    How can I donate my hair? Is there any organization to collect my hair?
  • Mary Hogan Jan 4, 2011 @ 2:04 pm | delete
    I'm 60 yr old, and am graying nicely, thank you. Is there any organization that can use my 50% gray hair?
  • rengiesuerte Jan 4, 2011 @ 11:03 am | delete
    I am not anymore scared for baldness now that I know hair donation is possible. Cool lens anyway!
  • Gayla S. Jan 3, 2011 @ 11:36 pm | delete
    Have read so much tonight that I am not sure which direction to go...I have a 6 year daughter, who has grown her hair to donate. We call her hair "Magic Hair" as she can go to bed with it wet and awakes with no snarles and same style everyday. Now we are ready for cutting and not sure where to turn. She watched the Locks of Love documentary and is all about donating. I would love for her to be acknowledged for her donation, but am skeptical for supporting her decision. Any further direction would be helpful.
  • Pam Sender Jan 4, 2011 @ 9:23 am | delete
    What a great learning experience for your daughter! Her giving should be commended and encouraged to be part of her life. Talk to her about responsible giving. Read to her all of the information on what Locks of Love does not tell you about their operation. Guide her to choosing an organization that is more in line with what her ultimate goal is.
  • Amy T Jan 4, 2011 @ 8:36 pm | delete
    My daughter is 7 and has beautiful curly hair and is ready to cut it and donate it for another child. She sees pictures of other children with no hair and says that is reason why she is donating and cutting her hair. I am still unsure who and where to donate her hair. It is an emotional experience for both of us.
  • ankitrawat Jan 3, 2011 @ 3:26 am | delete
    let me done mine today!
  • MyAroma Jan 2, 2011 @ 4:29 pm | delete
    I really admire you for doing this. I think it's awesome to donate hair to someone who needs it. My own hair is bleached and not very healthy, so I cannot donate, but if I ever go off the dye, I'll definitely remember this!
  • LauraMarie Jan 2, 2011 @ 6:43 am | delete
    I think donating your hair is a great ideas especially as it helps make wigs for others
  • LubosLabik Jan 1, 2011 @ 4:47 pm | delete
    I also donated my hair, it was just above my knees. They even make a make-up brushes from humans hair. Very interesting.
  • termit_bronx Dec 29, 2010 @ 2:14 am | delete
    Fascinating! :)
  • Carrise H Dec 29, 2010 @ 1:27 am | delete
    I donated my hair to a child that needed a wig here in Dallas. I acutally sent my hair to California Newport Beach Wiggin Out Salon and they found a girl with Cancer here in Dallas. I cut off my 22 " of hair and my friend donated her hair and we met with the little girl and her mother. It was so amazing to experience that. I am really happy that Wiggin Out set that up for us. Anyway, we have been keeping in touch with the little girl and she LOVES her wig and her mother sent us pics. We decided not to go with Locks of Love because we heard the kids are NOT able to get wigs and they are keeping all the finacial donations. That made me really sad. The address to Wiggin Out is 2400 West Coast Hwy Suite 4 Newport Beach, CA. 92663 Make sure you add your contact info cause they will let you know when they use your hair and you get a thank you note or a call usually first from the parents thanking you. Its is a wonderful thing that they do!
  • jasira vazzquez Dec 28, 2010 @ 8:30 pm | delete
    i cut my hair for children who lost all of ther hair and i fellt bad i cut haff of my hair for child of need i hope i can help
  • jaiganesh156 Dec 28, 2010 @ 3:23 pm | delete
    donate hair? this is one strange lens i read :)
  • PipPipHooray Dec 28, 2010 @ 1:39 am | delete
    I wish I knew about this years ago. I had natural hair to my waist many times. I had gut feelings that the last hairdresser I went to was keeping my hair when I did a big snip.... now I realise what a commodity it really is.
    Awesome lense... really really helpful.
    Sadly I started dying my hair for the first time about 8 months ago so no donating for me :( Shame cause my hair grows so fast and I would love to give to cancer kid patients.
  • PJ Dec 27, 2010 @ 11:04 am | delete
    I dye my hair. Looks like my only options are Locks of Love or for cleanup of oil spills, is that right?
  • UrbanFarmAndBeehives Dec 26, 2010 @ 10:28 pm | delete
    I've donated my hair to Locks of Love about a year ago. My hair was all the way down my back and when I read an article about donating hair to kids with cancer, I got inspired. It felt good to be able to do this for a kid.
  • Hana Dec 22, 2010 @ 10:50 pm | delete
    I'm getting ready to send in my donated hair. This is the 6th time that I am donating. I cut my hair every 2 years. So for the past 12 years, I've donated my hair. I think I'm going to continue to donate my hair for as long as God gives me healthy long hair.
  • hash Dec 20, 2010 @ 11:09 pm | delete
    im going 2 cut my hair just 2 donate it ..2 a kid in need of it of the holidays ....im 21 years old i been growing it since 04 but on and of cutting inches of every month ,,well its long enough, and im proud 2 be doing this ..and would really appreciate some one that could let me know a gud spot 2 donate ..thank ya boi hash contact me on face book.com/hashiel1
  • Tipi Dec 20, 2010 @ 10:41 am | delete
    Best wishes to you this holiday season. Nice to see that this awesome lens has been doing great over time, and stays in the top. Awesome!
  • brandano Dec 20, 2010 @ 3:25 am | delete
    Wow... this is new.Donate hair.its amazing,,, i would to like this.
    Something new to donate.usually ur hair just to wasted.but this u can donate. Nice squidd. ^_^
  • JVandewalker Dec 18, 2010 @ 1:20 pm | delete
    Donating your hair is one of the best things that you can do for someone in need. Cancer patients go through a lot as it is, and it is a wonderful thing for them to have a way to cover their head. Thanks for sharing how to make it happen.
  • The_Health_Lady Dec 17, 2010 @ 4:18 pm | delete
    If my hair wasn't so dry ( and now getting so gray) I'd think about donating my hair - but trust me no one would want it. Congratulations on making the list of The Best Squidoo Intros Ever!
  • OhMe Dec 17, 2010 @ 10:28 am | delete
    Great information on How To Donate Your Hair. Congrats on making The Best Squidoo Intros Ever list.
  • Ramkitten Dec 16, 2010 @ 10:30 pm | delete
    Congratulations on your intro being chosen one of the top 35 on Squidoo. Well deserved, and the rest of the lens is just as excellent. I remember Hillary Swank's haircut on Oprah.
  • Daniel Fournier Dec 14, 2010 @ 7:45 am | delete
    Im a male, started growing out my hair about a year ago.....does it make a difference in hair quality because im a male......
  • Pam Sender Dec 14, 2010 @ 9:59 am | delete
    Nope, surprisingly many males donate. One of my daughter's high school guy friends donated about 12" to her project. It was really thick, three times the thickness of younger girls.
  • Sarah Dec 11, 2010 @ 9:41 am | delete
    Is there any way to designate who our hair goes to? Or is there a place we can have a wig made for a family member?? What kind of cost are we looking at?
  • Pam Sender Dec 12, 2010 @ 1:40 pm | delete
    Best bet is to ind a wig maker and give them your hair and a template of the head. We found a place in Astoria, NY that seemed very resaonable but I haven't seen the quality yet. We are going to try them.
  • JacobHughes1 Dec 10, 2010 @ 4:52 pm | delete
    I have short hair. I probably can only donate 1 cm of my hair, lol
  • fbaum818 Dec 10, 2010 @ 2:08 pm | delete
    Thanks for the lens. I did read that donated hair was used for the Gulf of Mexico oil spill clean up.
  • Pam Sender Dec 7, 2010 @ 3:38 pm | delete
    My daughter's Girl Scout Gold Award Project is to collect hair and have it made into wigs for 10 children in the Chicago area who have lost their hair for any reason and can't afford to buy a wig. No finanacial statements and no essays, just a wig. She will make templates for each head and have the wigs made from the donations. Anyone interested in donating can contact us at GotHairForKids@att.net To date she has collected 10 ponytails and $305. BTW, my daughter lost her hair and it is growing back. She donated before she lost her own hair.
  • PopStarPeaches Dec 5, 2010 @ 4:44 pm | delete
    I am planning on donating my hair, and this lens gives a lot of great information about how to do that. Great job! *Blessed by a Squid Angel*
  • Lauren Dec 4, 2010 @ 9:47 pm | delete
    I just donated mine to Pantene on Friday!! 13 and 1/2 inches!! My cousin who just completed her treatments for Lymphoma was my inspiration to donate. I think it is a great cause! :)
  • Paula F. Dec 3, 2010 @ 11:39 am | delete
    My daughter has long curly hair and would like to donate her hair this Xmas for someone in need. My question is this, she has curly hair, should it be blown dry straight to get the desired measurement, or measured from it's naturally curly state?
  • SusanVillasLewis Dec 3, 2010 @ 1:30 pm | delete
    From what I've read, you could just pull a strand out straight to measure just to make sure it's long enough. For the purposes of cutting, it might be easier if it was at least a little straighter, but I wouldn't worry about getting it ramrod straight. As you can see from my picture, my hair has a lot of wave to it. They don't care that her hair arrives curly, so go with whatever makes it easier on whomever is doing the cutting.
  • Lauren Himsel Dec 4, 2010 @ 9:45 pm | delete
    You can straighten the hair or blow it dry to reach the required length.
  • StriveDigital Nov 30, 2010 @ 7:48 pm | delete
    Great lens . I have donated twice to Locks of Love. It's was hard each time as I am very attached to my long hair, but it's for such a great cause.
  • jesus river Nov 30, 2010 @ 6:09 pm | delete
    my name is jesus and i am donating m hair after christmas.it will be my first time...very excited.
  • frank arcabascio Nov 28, 2010 @ 12:07 pm | delete
    in New York ... Astoria ,Queens.... Redkens "Saloon Salon" give FREE haircuts to, locks of love donors ... 1 718 956 3366
  • JRLSolutions Nov 26, 2010 @ 2:21 am | delete
    Great Lens! I wanted to do this when I cut off about 8 inches of hair earlier this year but didn't know quite how to. Will definitely do so now that I do!
  • Connie G. Nov 24, 2010 @ 8:50 am | delete
    Hello, I've donated to locks of love for the past 5 years. A friend of mine was recently diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer. instead of donating to locks of love, I thought I would donate my hair to her. Only problem is I can't find any wig shop or organization that will donate their time and efforts into making the wig, since its a bit of an expensive process. Any ideas or thoughts? I'm in Dallas, Texas.
  • Pam Sender Dec 7, 2010 @ 3:42 pm | delete
    It takes at least 3 heads of good hair to make one wig.
  • dsmiles22 Nov 21, 2010 @ 2:36 pm | delete
    Great ideas. I've always wanted to do this. Now that I don't color my hair anymore, I'll have to look into it.
  • Margo_Arrowsmith Nov 20, 2010 @ 8:53 am | delete
    I recently did this again, for the second time. I think by the time it gets longer there will be gray though
  • Nov 18, 2010 @ 3:35 pm | delete
    I never thought about this..but what a great lens
  • needatitleokc Nov 18, 2010 @ 1:21 pm | delete
    I wished I had known this before I cut my hair off had to though it was shedding like crazy I guess when I was walking through the cancer
  • Hairdresser007 Nov 14, 2010 @ 12:50 am | delete
    This is such a great thing to do for people in need.
  • jolielaide75 Nov 4, 2010 @ 1:11 pm | delete
    I love this! It's so sweet to do something so selfless as to donate one's hair. I'm not sure if this is something that black people can do though...I know there is a need for ethnic hair, (after all, cancer or alopecia is not something that only white people can get) but I'm not sure if there is enough information in our community to do something about getting donations. Maybe that's a project that I can look into!
  • Amanda Nov 12, 2010 @ 1:16 am | delete
    I am a black female that is looking to donate my hair for the cause, and i have 14 inchs i am willing to cut off. Its all up to that person.
  • chemknitsblog Nov 3, 2010 @ 8:40 pm | delete
    I haven't been able to get my hair long enough to donate, but I have friends that will donate 20+ inches every few years
  • Nov 1, 2010 @ 12:03 pm | delete
    I know someone that just donated to locks of love. This is a great cause, love the lens.
  • HarleyDude Oct 26, 2010 @ 2:25 pm | delete
    My daughter donated her hair to the locks of love! Great Lens!
  • MiseryBusiness519 Oct 26, 2010 @ 10:15 am | delete
    My brother's got really long blonde ahir, I wish he would donate it!

    Thnaks for sharing :)
  • cathy5342 Oct 21, 2010 @ 8:42 pm | delete
    I own a salon. And if the patron is donating their hair, I waive the cost of the cut. I think alot of salon will do that. So make sure that your stylist knows that you are donating. Don't be shy. Remember, hair does grown back, and its a great cause.
  • ChristopherFranko Oct 21, 2010 @ 2:14 pm | delete
    hmm. ive got enough hair to donate. maybe i will :D
  • too gray to donate Oct 17, 2010 @ 7:52 pm | delete
    Is there anyone who makes gray wigs? My hair has never been colored, but Pantene won't take hair that is more than 5% gray.
  • Old&Gray Oct 19, 2010 @ 3:14 pm | delete
    Hi, Did you find anyone who will accept gray hair.
    I want to donate but not if they just sell it.
    Thank You
  • Nancy Oct 20, 2010 @ 11:54 am | delete
    Locks of Love takes grey!
  • SusanVillasLewis Oct 20, 2010 @ 1:47 pm | delete
    Selling it isn't a bad thing. It takes more than just donated hair to make a hairpiece. There's a lot of expensive hand labor involved plus other administrative costs. Money from selling hair can help defray those costs.
  • Lauren Dec 4, 2010 @ 9:49 pm | delete
    Locks of Love sells the greys to offset the production cost. You can donate if it is no more than 5% grey.
  • Sarah Dec 7, 2010 @ 12:14 am | delete
    http://www.childrenwithhairloss.us/our-mission - they take gray hair.
  • SusanVillasLewis Dec 7, 2010 @ 7:34 am | delete
    Yes. They're listed on the second page of this site with the other organizations that accept hair donations.
  • SusanVillasLewis Oct 20, 2010 @ 1:45 pm | delete
    No one makes straight gray wigs - part of that has to do with the fact that most of these organizations make wigs for children. But some of the organizations do accept gray hair, but double-check to see what they do with it. Some will sell unusable hair to defray expenses, others will just throw it away.
  • CoolFoto Oct 15, 2010 @ 9:56 pm | delete
    Congrats on well-deserved LOD!
  • WebIsFun Oct 14, 2010 @ 1:55 pm | delete
    It's nice to donate your hair - it fells good. Some places will use shorter hair for helping soak up oil spills.
  • cory_wilson Oct 14, 2010 @ 8:48 am | delete
    This is such a good cause. I had a friend form college take part in hair donation. It's such a rewarding feeling helping someone feel better about themselves.
  • KathyMcGraw Oct 12, 2010 @ 10:45 am | delete
    Fascinating..I wouldn't have even thought to do some of the research when choosing to donate hair..I would have just picked one and cut it. Blessed by an Angel.
  • howtocurecancer Oct 12, 2010 @ 5:49 am | delete
    My mom is a cancer survivor, so I know how difficult it is to fight cancer. I wolu definitely donate my hair.
  • Kerrie Oct 11, 2010 @ 8:04 pm | delete
    My hair is ready to be cut to donate! I started growing it a little over a year ago and know I have well over 12 inches. Just making sure I know EVERYTHING I can possibly know before I go to cut it off. I had no idea there were more places to donate than Locks of Love, although it doesn't surprise me. I'm now going to research the Pantene Beautiful Lengths program as well. Thanks for all the info!
  • Katie Sep 30, 2010 @ 4:38 pm | delete
    I had dyed my hair about three months ago with color from a box, it was just an auburn color, nothing crazy. I'm worried though, that I may have had my hair bleached a year ago, and if that would still make it unacceptable to donate? I wanted to shoot for sometime next year to donate, because I want to get my hair as healthy as possible. How long would it take until it was indeed healthy enough and all of it was out of my hair? My hair has at least 8 inches to donate right now, maybe more.
  • WeddingZazzle Sep 30, 2010 @ 5:04 am | delete
    Blessed by a SquidAngel :)
  • SofiaMann Sep 29, 2010 @ 5:31 pm | delete
    I admire people who deal with helping others. Donate your hair does not cost really hurts, but it can improve quality of life of others. Congratulations on this wonderful lens.
  • carinsuranceq Sep 29, 2010 @ 3:12 am | delete
    Unique idea for lens creation..But if you ask me...who would really love to part from the nice long mane? and if you do not have beautiful hair you cannot donate it.
  • mcochs Sep 24, 2010 @ 7:38 am | delete
    Great And Interesting Lens! Love It!
  • rdbdotme Sep 23, 2010 @ 5:51 pm | delete
    Wow, I didn't even know such a thing really existed. Very informative.
    Thanks rdbdotme
  • Susan Sep 20, 2010 @ 4:18 pm | delete
    I found a general fund that needs donations of money and gray hair for wigs for people with hair loss due to medical conditions including cancer. It is the Silver Generation of WigFund.org
    Here's the URL: http://www.wigfund.org/wig-fund.php?id=4356180

    I can't vouch for the organization except to say that they were very responsive to my inquiry and that they described this as an ongoing fund to donate free naturally gray human hair wigs to people with medically related hair loss.
  • AslanBooks Sep 19, 2010 @ 7:54 pm | delete
    I love it that people do this. Great lens.
  • kraji Sep 18, 2010 @ 7:33 am | delete
    Interesting but I think my hair is not good enough for this. :)
  • purple_hippo Sep 14, 2010 @ 4:52 pm | delete
    I have enough hair to donate but there is something really significant that is going to happen in my life and I am waiting for it. Morbid but significant. Then I will begin a whole new life with a whole new do.
  • elizajane202 Sep 14, 2010 @ 6:51 am | delete
    I colored my hair three years ago and am wondering if it would be too early to donate it? My hair is super thick and constantly gives me headaches so I figure I'll grow it long one time, chop it off and donate it. But not sure if they'll take my hair. Thanks for the other tips, they'll help my 10 year old who is wanting to donate.
  • SusanVillasLewis Sep 14, 2010 @ 7:53 am | delete
    Are the ends still the old colored section? Do you have enough to trim that part off and then cut for a donation? The challenge with colored hair is the damage caused by the original coloring and potential damage when they color it again to get all the hair in the piece the same color. (Totally understand about the long hair giving you headaches and wanting it gone. But such a cool thing for you and your kid to do together!)
  • MaryRay1 Sep 13, 2010 @ 12:46 am | delete
    Such a wonderful thing to do!
  • RosaAmarilla Sep 11, 2010 @ 2:45 am | delete
    I donated my hair several years back, and I've never been sorry that I cut it so short for a good cause. I love having long hair, so I wanted to give that gift to someone else in a way.
  • Sep 8, 2010 @ 4:01 am | delete
    hair donation should be advised to all the salon owners instead of throwing out those unwanted hairs :-)
  • SusanVillasLewis Sep 14, 2010 @ 7:50 am | delete
    There are salons that work directly with Matter of Trust because that group will take the sweepings off the floor and it's a great use for the hair rather than just dumping it in the trash. But most human hair that is cut is too short for use in a hairpiece. Most of us don't cut off that much in one go.
  • Andreja Vekar Sep 7, 2010 @ 1:52 am | delete
    I am from Europe. I need to know if it is possible to send them somehow.
  • SusanVillasLewis Sep 14, 2010 @ 7:49 am | delete
    The addresses are on each group's website. They don't care what country packages come from!
  • howdoyouspellstupid Aug 29, 2010 @ 6:15 pm | delete
    I've donated my hair to Locks Of Love twice! It made me feel so good, and helped a child!! My hair grows about an inch a month, so donating my hair is an easy and great thing I can do to help. I absolutely recommend donating your hair.
    Thanks for the great lens!
  • preeta gabba Aug 29, 2010 @ 1:18 pm | delete
    I would like to donate my Indian long hair. I live in germantown, MD, 20874 usa
  • banjalukahotels Aug 24, 2010 @ 12:07 pm | delete
    Bah :(((( why i didn't read this before i cut my hair :(((
  • BuckHawk Aug 21, 2010 @ 8:54 am | delete
    Very good information! I had heard about it, but didn't know where to turn for more info. This is good. Thanks.
  • Maxine Ryder Aug 16, 2010 @ 6:04 pm | delete
    This is such a great idea. Many of my friends have donated their hair to Locks of Love. Now i am growing mine to maximum length to do the same. Thanks for the tips on how to do it.
    Maxine xx
  • becca Aug 13, 2010 @ 1:18 am | delete
    hi. im still growing my hair out but i was just wondering... i dyed my hair a few months ago if i donate my hair a few weeks before christmas would it matter that i dyed it at all? its not a funky color i just dyed my hair back to the original color (brown) i had a few streaks in it before so i dyed it back to brown.
  • SusanVillasLewis Sep 14, 2010 @ 7:48 am | delete
    If you had streaks, weren't those bleached to get them in there? In which case, no, you can't donate. Or, well, your hair wouldn't be accepted for use in a wig, but would be sold or tossed.
  • Marie Aug 8, 2010 @ 2:54 pm | delete
    I donated my hair to Pantene Beautiful Lengths, and do so every year. Every summer I look for a cooler 'do, so why not donate it, if someone else can use it?
    I've now gotten in the habit of seeing my hair as "someone else's", and thus try to take very good care of it.
  • RosegardenAdvice Aug 8, 2010 @ 1:05 pm | delete
    got to know about hair donation only thru yr lens! Thanks for sharing.
  • nanasattic Aug 6, 2010 @ 11:17 pm | delete
    Great information! I donate mine to locks of love about every two years (mine grows really quick). I hope your lens encourages others to donate as well.
  • newfacebooklayouts Aug 6, 2010 @ 12:22 pm | delete
    Hair Donation... something new...
  • Brenda Aug 2, 2010 @ 10:09 pm | delete
    My hair goes past my butt and Im going to donate it around the end of this month. But I dont know what to do with my hair after that. Ive been growing my hair out all my life and Ive never cut it. So im kind of scared about what to do with it. Im really excited for my first haircut! :)
  • DDcutie Aug 9, 2010 @ 9:25 pm | delete
    wow thats fanstic I think im gonna do that
  • jim Aug 2, 2010 @ 6:08 pm | delete
    My hair has always been short and spiky, until now. Even now though, it ranges from about 6 - 8 inches in length and I'm thinking of donating it in a few months. My question is this: Can I donate several small locks of hair, each at 8 inches in length? I don't mind shaving my head (I'm a guy...so I don't care). My hair won't be long enough to donate one giant 8 inch ponytail.
  • SusanVillasLewis Aug 2, 2010 @ 6:16 pm | delete
    The big thing to keep in mind is that they don't want it swept up off the floor. So you could a _bunch_ of small ponytails, cut those off, then bind them together in a bunch before you bag it up to send. No loose hair, no hair swept off the floor. Sounds like it might be doable for you.
  • sam Aug 2, 2010 @ 2:31 pm | delete
    probably
  • martha stone marthab222@aol.com Aug 2, 2010 @ 9:26 am | delete
    can i not donate if i have colored hair
  • SusanVillasLewis Aug 2, 2010 @ 6:15 pm | delete
    The big thing I always see is bleached as being unacceptable. They need to be able to color several batches of hair all the same shade, so your hair needs to be in as top-notch a shape as possible. Double-check the guidelines for the different groups because they do vary a little on this one.
  • Michelle Aug 1, 2010 @ 8:05 pm | delete
    My grandmother asked me about donating my hair. She was recently diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer and starts chemo soon. I absolutely want to donate my hair to hair ( its very long and thick) does anyone know a way I can donate my hair to her so she may be able to get a wig or a discounted wig with my donation?
  • SusanVillasLewis Aug 1, 2010 @ 8:50 pm | delete
    Michelle - the only way to ensure your hair actually goes to your grandmother is to have a wigmaker make a wig for you. There's no way to ensure she'd get it otherwise. Have her check out the Pantene program, though. I don't believe they charge for their wigs, but I can't remember the recipient qualifications. Then you could donate your hair to pay it forward.
  • Savannah Aug 16, 2010 @ 10:01 pm | delete
    My grandma has recently started chemo and she really loves my hair. Is there any hair donation center where I can ensure my grandma gets my hair for a wig?
  • hluchs Aug 1, 2010 @ 5:47 pm | delete
    no i have not done before but want to give to women that have lost or children but if your one of these that charge the person for their wig im not interested
  • Tom Jul 31, 2010 @ 12:40 am | delete
    I was planning on growing out my hair to donate but my hair is around 7 inches on the top and 5-6 on the sides and I really dont think I can hold out until my hair is 10-12 inches to cut so I was wondering if there are organizations that can use shorter hair for boys? any help, thanks
  • SusanVillasLewis Aug 1, 2010 @ 8:49 pm | delete
    Tom - if you look at some of the groups, a couple take as little as 8 inches and at least one as little as six (that I can remember). Alternative is to cut it and sell it and donate the money. (Which is what Locks of Love does with unusable hair.)
  • Tipi Jul 27, 2010 @ 3:56 pm | delete
    Hi Susan, I really marvel at this wonderful lens. It is for such a good cause that ` we donate our own hair for others. Great to see this resource of info. is going strong and well.
  • xasjmak Jul 27, 2010 @ 8:42 am | delete
    This is a good thing, rather than your hair in vain. better to be donated so good for others.
  • Kaylee Sharick Jul 25, 2010 @ 5:07 pm | delete
    Hi! My grandma carole died when I was little. but she received a wig. So I want to give back and donate 10 inches of my hair for someone else to benefit from. It was hard to cut my hair off but it will always grow back.
  • Susan Timleck Jul 18, 2010 @ 8:18 pm | delete
    My granddaughter is almost 7 years old. She recently donated 8 inches of her thick curly hair. I was hoping she would get a thank you note in the mail so she would understand what she did. I explained it to her but I think with a note and pictures from your organization she would fully understand. We have a teacher at the school she attends who recently lost her hair due to cancer. I would like to put my granddaughter's picture along with a note from Panteen in our local newspaper to go along with a story about this teacher.
  • FauxEver Yours, Lori Jul 17, 2010 @ 2:20 pm | delete
    I just cut my hair for my third donation, only 10" this time because I didn't want it too short. The first time I had 23", the second was 15". I can't give blood, but my hair grows like a weed, I get at least 7" a year. I'm 52 years old, and if I can help someone feel better about themselves in a difficult time, then it makes me feel good too!
  • Kristen Jul 14, 2010 @ 11:12 pm | delete
    I have donated 10-14 inches of my hair to Locks of Love since 1999. This past Sunday marks my 6th cut for donation: '99, '01, '03, '05, '08, and 7/11/10--22 inches this time! and it's still brushing the tops of my shoulders! I have heard of charities for women and thought I might start alternating between the kids' one and the women's one, but I couldn't remember any specific charity name, which is why I was googling it when I found this page! Neat.
  • sarah! Jul 14, 2010 @ 3:12 am | delete
    This a great thing you all are doing! (:
  • GuyB Jul 12, 2010 @ 6:28 pm | delete
    Quite a selfless act indeed, terrific lens and topic
  • Obscure_Treasures Jul 11, 2010 @ 12:09 am | delete
    Wow, that is detailed. Nice job, enjoyable read.
  • Vanessa Jul 5, 2010 @ 2:52 pm | delete
    I've donated my hair twice and am growing it out to do it a third time. I first decided to do it when my mom was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2004 she has since beat the breast cancer and has just recently been diagnosed with terminal lung cancer. I can't do a whole lot to help cancer patients but if donating my hair helps them even in a little way then i'll do it for the rest of the time that I am able.
  • Alicia Jun 27, 2010 @ 8:28 pm | delete
    How could a person donate their hair to make a wig for a family member going through chemo?
  • PFcat Jun 26, 2010 @ 8:06 pm | delete
    I have now donated twice. First time, I had 10" and 16" sections. This time, 8". Just have to figure out where to send it this time.
  • Tipi Jun 26, 2010 @ 1:23 pm | delete
    There are so many people donating there hair to help clean up the oil spill. This has always been an informative lens for readers to find, nice to just stop by again. - Best wishes Susan!
    Susie
  • Bobbie Jun 22, 2010 @ 5:16 pm | delete
    Just how much is bleached? Any lightening of the hair?
  • Bobbie Jun 22, 2010 @ 5:13 pm | delete
    Does anyone know how much you would need to lighten to become 'bleached'? I dislike my haircolour and have about a foot to donate, but it has been lifted two shades - can I still donate?
  • hifiamplifiers Jun 21, 2010 @ 6:04 am | delete
    Bah ,i was have about 4years ago , really long hear ...I just cat it ,and the my hair stain in salon in down ...Sry for my bad English :(((
  • yellowvenus Jun 21, 2010 @ 5:04 am | delete
    I have a lot of hair to donate. I'm donating it today. Thanks for the interesting lens.
  • valerie Jun 17, 2010 @ 7:54 pm | delete
    i want to donate my hair to adults with cancer is there an address for that my father died 2 years ago from small cell lung cancer and his mother my grandmother is now dying of it can you help me find a site that i am looking for?
  • SusanVillasLewis Jun 18, 2010 @ 7:41 am | delete
    Valerie - if you look at the second page of this site, you'll see all the organizations I know of that accept human hair. The only one I know of that does anything for adults with cancer is Pantene and you can follow the link to their site to get the info for where to send your hair.
  • der Jun 16, 2010 @ 6:22 am | delete
    I have had a very long hair but I had it cut due to some reasons.
  • melinda Jun 15, 2010 @ 10:56 pm | delete
    hello i love to help people in need i'm 20yr old i will love to donate my long hair to kids that need i'm cutting my hair next week but need an address to send it to but i but its to donate for those lovely kids that needs or anyone that needs it i hope someone enjoy it
  • SusanVillasLewis Jun 16, 2010 @ 12:55 pm | delete
    Melinda - you can get the address for donating off of any of the different groups websites. Check out several of them on the second page of this website - http://www.squidoo.com/donateyourhair/63531692-Where-to-Donate. Once you figure out where you want to donate, just check their website for the details on where to send.
  • Francesca231 Jun 14, 2010 @ 1:00 pm | delete
    I had hair long enough to sit on and went and got it cut a couple of weeks ago into a bob. I really wish I had read this first as I would've loved to have done this.
  • celia19O5 Jun 13, 2010 @ 9:16 pm | delete
    I have had a very long hair but I had it cut due to some reasons. Sometimes I feel regretted !!! If I knew this donation soon, maybe I had sth for donation ...
  • EllaHalligan Jun 11, 2010 @ 6:48 pm | delete
    My son is growing out his hair to donate. He has beautiful blond curls that grow very fast. I have to admit, I can't wait until his hair is long enough to cut... it's starting to get wild!
  • petanu Jun 11, 2010 @ 8:58 am | delete
    I will donate. Thx for the article
  • Athren Jun 9, 2010 @ 10:17 am | delete
    way to go! it is nice to see some one cares about something you don't see every day
  • Bobbie Jun 7, 2010 @ 3:11 pm | delete
    I hate to be naive about this, but I just don't know - if I lighten my hair (about 2 shades) is that considered 'bleaching'? I'd love to donate, but have disliked my natural colour all my life.
  • junflors May 29, 2010 @ 12:16 am | delete
    a great article so many thing to learn God Bless and more power.
  • mich1908 May 28, 2010 @ 4:58 am | delete
    What a great lense! This is something new to me..
  • pam May 19, 2010 @ 8:26 pm | delete
    i want to donate my hair where cancer patients can use it . i can cut about 18in. off but i have colored my hair for many years can i still donate
  • pinksailboat May 26, 2010 @ 7:47 am | delete
    locks for love takes dyed hair.
  • SusanVillasLewis May 26, 2010 @ 8:22 am | delete
    As pinksailboat says, Locks of Love will take dyed hair. But not bleached. So if you've gone blonde, it might not work. Oh, but Locks of Love doesn't do cancer patients, so there's that as well to consider. Pantene will take colored hair if it's not a permanent coloring. Check the rest of this list on the "Where to Donate" tab at the top of the page.
  • Cheryl Jun 8, 2010 @ 2:21 pm | delete
    yes, i just read online that "Locks of Love" accepts colored hair in healthy condition.
  • May 17, 2010 @ 9:24 pm | delete
    Thank !! That great donate.
  • Terri - Blondie May 17, 2010 @ 1:18 pm | delete
    My hair is down to my butt...but...because I have dyed it blonde for all these years, I can't help anyone? That bites.
  • SusanVillasLewis May 17, 2010 @ 1:27 pm | delete
    Actually, check out the Matter of Trust site. They're collecting hair for use in the booms with the oil spill. And that hair can be in any condition. Your blonde hair could be sucking up oil in the Gulf. :-)
  • Faryal May 22, 2010 @ 12:13 pm | delete
    http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/greenspace/2010/05/gulf-oil-spill-hair-boom-effort-cut-short-.html

    It's ridiculous.
  • pinkrenegade May 13, 2010 @ 11:22 am | delete
    What a wonderful lens and a great cause.
  • Momsbusy247 May 11, 2010 @ 9:20 pm | delete
    What a truly wonderful and important Lens. It is a great thing to do, donating your locks
  • Lindsay May 11, 2010 @ 10:12 am | delete
    Here's a great video that shows how the hair booms are made and tells you how you can donate them directly to businesses who are volunteering for the Gulf clean up. It's from Greenopolis. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FCCmrPet7Rw
  • boatbuildingplans May 9, 2010 @ 2:29 pm | delete
    I wish I had been to this lens before cutting off my mane of hair.
  • Dyan Drew May 5, 2010 @ 5:14 pm | delete
    I just saw that you can donate your hair for the oil spill... The Ritz-Carlton in downtown New Orleans is accepting donations of nylons, hair and fur on behalf of Matter of Trust, http://www.matteroftrust.org, to create booms to combat the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico.
  • ddrew02 May 5, 2010 @ 5:09 pm | delete
    I just saw that you can donate ynour hair for the oil spill!! The Ritz-Carlton in downtown New Orleans is accepting donations of nylons, hair and fur on behalf of Matter of Trust, http://www.matteroftrust.org, to create booms to combat the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico.
  • SusanVillasLewis May 5, 2010 @ 9:30 pm | delete
    Yep - I have info about them on the list under places to donate. They're a great option for people whose hair isn't long enough, has gray or has been treated.
  • Shoppingirl97 May 3, 2010 @ 6:20 pm | delete
    Just so you know there is an organization- pink heart funds and it accepts dyed hair grey hair and just six inches!
  • VeggieMom71 May 3, 2010 @ 10:23 am | delete
    I dye my hair to cover grey. Was growing it out intentionally for Locks/Love but come to find they'll more than likely sell my hair for their own profit and not for the kids. :( Back to the drawing board!
  • SusanVillasLewis May 3, 2010 @ 10:46 am | delete
    Dyed hair is generally not accepted by any of the groups, so you might have a problem donating generally. And many of the groups will sell hair they receive that they can't use in hairpieces. Only other option is to throw it away. Money is used to cover costs for making the hairpieces. Even if you get the hair for free via donations, it's quite costly to actually make the hairpieces. Money has to come from somewhere and sometimes it's from selling hair that can't be used otherwise.
  • TheGreenerMe May 1, 2010 @ 10:10 pm | delete
    Excellent advice, I just made this the Green Tip of the Day on Facebook/Twitter. Thanks for this information!
  • wilson_cga Apr 29, 2010 @ 5:01 am | delete
    I find it so noble, to donate a part of us, for greater cause!!
    sure I will relay this to my wife, who has a long and wonderful hair.
  • cupons Apr 28, 2010 @ 12:58 am | delete
    Really useful information, at last I found my har useful! 5 star
  • athomemomblog Apr 24, 2010 @ 10:29 am | delete
    Great lens! I cut my hair off at 18 and was actually bald for a while. The 18 inches of hair went to Locks of Love. Great lens, 5* and an angel blessing.
  • Guitar75 Apr 22, 2010 @ 12:04 am | delete
    Thanks for such a great lens. I've reached a point in my life where I am ready to shave it all off and donate my hair and this answered all of my questions. Thank you!
  • Vitamoney Apr 21, 2010 @ 5:27 am | delete
    I never know that my hair can be donate! interesting topic but feel free to visit mine.
    try to be like yours..TQ
  • amia Apr 20, 2010 @ 4:02 pm | delete
    my niece donated her hair last year. this motivated my 11 year old and she did it this year. A hair dresser I know in my city wants to help. can any body contact
  • patricia barajas Apr 19, 2010 @ 8:04 pm | delete
    I don't know how to donate my 13in of hair plz help me
  • SusanVillasLewis Apr 20, 2010 @ 8:18 am | delete
    Patricia, check out any of the groups listed under the "Where to Donate" tab at the top. You've got enough length to donate to just about any group as long as you meet the other criteria. Find the one that meets your desire and follow their instructions.
  • Claudia Apr 18, 2010 @ 11:10 am | delete
    I first became aware of this program after I was diagnosed with thyroid cancer, and had to undergo radiation. I did not lose my hair, but realized how sensitive this issue can be. So after a received a clean bill of health I decided to do something to help others. I am in the process of donating my hair for the second time. I hope more people will do it.
  • surviving-2012 Apr 17, 2010 @ 11:19 pm | delete
    Donating my hair was one of the hardest things that I ever did. The heartfelt emotion of helping makes it all worth it.
  • RuntFarmSeries Apr 17, 2010 @ 9:47 pm | delete
    I have a friend who works at the Cancer Care Alliance, which has a "makeover" boutique for women undergoing chemo and radiation therapy. She says it's amazing the difference the right wig makes. This is a lovely gift, and very meaningful. Thanks for this lens!
  • BigGirlBlue Apr 16, 2010 @ 2:46 am | delete
    ¨¨¨°º©©º° This lens has been blessed! °º©©º°¨¨¨
  • markmarks Apr 15, 2010 @ 12:04 pm | delete
    thought this was very strange at first, but when i understood why people were donating their own hair it changed my mind. good people trying to help others they may never meet, you cant knock that!
  • PolyPak Apr 14, 2010 @ 2:52 pm | delete
    Cutting hair for such a great cause!
  • Misty Tavegia Apr 11, 2010 @ 12:18 am | delete
    My mother was just diagnosed with terminal lung cancer. The cancer is in it's final stages and the only wish she has is for me to get a wig made out of my hair for her before she passes away. I have long beautiful hair, I just do not know how to go about this. I know you can donate to locks of love and other various organizations but is there anyone out there that can help me give it to my mother?
  • SusanVillasLewis Apr 11, 2010 @ 7:59 am | delete
    So sorry to hear about your mother, Misty. The only way to donate hair and have it made for a specific person is to go to a wig maker to do it. All the organizations mix hair (from six to 14 people depending on the style) to make their hairpieces and couldn't guarantee your hair would go to your mother.
  • Tammy Apr 11, 2010 @ 10:14 pm | delete
    I am so sorry to hear about your mother. I have been searching and reviewing different places to donate hair (my son cut his long hair off today). I recall seeing a website that can make wigs for you out of your own hair. It was called "Caring and Comfort." The website was caringandcomfort.com. I'm not sure if it is a reliable place or not. Just recall seeing it earlier today.
    I hope you can find a place.
    My prayers will be with you guys.
  • Mythological Apr 10, 2010 @ 8:43 pm | delete
    I donated my hair a few years back, I gave 13" but, I never knew what happened to it. I got it cut and the lady said she would send it in for me. I think I should have sent it in myself. I want to donate again but, my hair is dyed now. I'm letting it grow out of the dye so I can do it again.
  • Airinka Apr 8, 2010 @ 5:34 am | delete
    Long long ago I sold my hair. I have never thought that it is possible to donate it :).
  • lasertek Apr 8, 2010 @ 1:32 am | delete
    Wonderful lens! My wife donated her hair a few years back and now she's decided to do it again. Might as well share this lens to her. Congrats on becoming the LOTD. 5*
  • topdentistfinder Apr 7, 2010 @ 9:57 pm | delete
    My two little girls got their hair cut short a couple years ago and donated it to Locks of Love. It was a great teaching experience for me and learning experience for them on the importance of helping others. Great lens!
  • Pastiche Apr 7, 2010 @ 12:54 pm | delete
    I've never been able to grow my hair long - it's too curly and coarse. These days it's also got a bit too much grey. I do have friends who've donated their long and luxurious locks, though. It's a great thing to do. Congrats on LOTD!
  • Mei Apr 6, 2010 @ 1:42 pm | delete
    Last month I donated 15" of my hair to Locks of Love. This was the 5th time I've cut and donated to the organization.
  • newbizmau Apr 6, 2010 @ 11:08 am | delete
    Congratulations on LOTD for this lens.
  • Hrtsmom Apr 6, 2010 @ 10:08 am | delete
    I donated mine to Pantene two years ago; now I'm ready to do it again! This was a very timely LOTD for me!
  • alteredkat Apr 6, 2010 @ 8:12 am | delete
    What a great idea! I'd love to do this some day...right now my hair is only about a centimeter long LOL...so it will be a while...in the meantime let me congratulate you on LOTD and lensroll this to my breast cancer lens. 5*
  • thrivingmom Apr 6, 2010 @ 7:56 am | delete
    I donated mine to Locks of Love back in 2003. Congrats on LOTD.
  • OneFootPutt Apr 6, 2010 @ 12:16 am | delete
    What a great lens for LOTD. My daughter donated her hair when she was 6 years old and is getting ready to donate again before she turns 8.
  • The-Java-Gal Apr 5, 2010 @ 11:17 pm | delete
    Congrats on LOTD. Very informative, and thought provoking. 5*s
  • AngelineSophia Apr 5, 2010 @ 9:47 pm | delete
    Congratulations on LOTD. I appreciate you have donated your hair.
  • Tipi Apr 5, 2010 @ 7:33 pm | delete
    Susan, congratulations on LOTD!
    I love the idea of donating hair.
    Susie
  • bygproductions Apr 5, 2010 @ 5:23 pm | delete
    My youngest daughters hair grows fast and she has a lot of it. She has donated twice and is working on a third donation. Great way to recycle if one can.
  • skiesgreen Apr 5, 2010 @ 5:19 pm | delete
    Congrats on LOTD. Nice lens
  • partybuzz Apr 5, 2010 @ 4:58 pm | delete
    I think this a wonderful thing to do and thank you for your contribution. Congratulations on LotD!!
  • Susan52 Apr 5, 2010 @ 3:33 pm | delete
    Congratulations on Lens of the Day for this important lens. As a cancer patient, I reallly, REALLY appreciate that you're spreading the word about how to donate hair. My daughter-in-law is growing hers out now, preparing to donate.
  • TheGreenerMe Apr 5, 2010 @ 3:05 pm | delete
    I've always loved this lens! Congrats on LOTD!
  • HorseAndPony Apr 5, 2010 @ 2:12 pm | delete
    Congratulations on LOTD! What a great lens topic.
  • awelldressedbullet Apr 5, 2010 @ 1:18 pm | delete
    Wonderful lens, congratulations on your LOTD! - Kathy
  • PositiveChristian Apr 5, 2010 @ 1:13 pm | delete
    Congratulations on LotD. I think donating hair is a wonderful idea. Unfortunately I don't think I qualify.
  • KarateKatGraphics Apr 5, 2010 @ 1:03 pm | delete
    Wish my hair was long enough to donate! 5* and rolling this to squidoo.com/sulfate-free-shampoo
  • d-artist Apr 5, 2010 @ 12:49 pm | delete
    congrats on LOTD! very nice lens and for a great cause...5*...
  • Photahsiamirabel Apr 5, 2010 @ 12:24 pm | delete
    Congratulations on LOTD with this super lens. I had a sponsored hair cut to help charity about 5 years ago saving the hair to donate would have been so neat but I didn't know about it then. Thank you for publicising this.
  • GrowWear Apr 5, 2010 @ 11:17 am | delete
    Congratulations for your LOTD for How To Donate Your Hair. Fabulous!
  • Corinne Apr 4, 2010 @ 7:38 pm | delete
    I decided to cut off my hair because my 19 month old daughter was swinging off it & I was becoming head sore! Im fortunate enough to have it grow back -which means in time I can donate again!! Many arn't as fortunate & I wanted to donate mine as opposed to throwing it away! I want to donate to a charity that gives wigs to cancer patients, young or old. This is the first time i've donated hair! Do you know any charity's that give their wigs away as opposed to selling them to patients? Its approximately 8-10inches, varying in lengths as it was layered! My hair now is shoulder length, doesn't look good yet but feels so much better!
  • SusanVillasLewis Apr 4, 2010 @ 7:59 pm | delete
    Everyone handles things differently. My understanding is that Pantene gives their hairpieces away, but most of the others charge. Check the specific group you're interested in to make sure.
  • Corinne Apr 4, 2010 @ 9:04 pm | delete
    Rodger that!!
    Will do more homework before deciding on a final decision!
    Thanks for getting back to my query.
  • Julie Mar 29, 2010 @ 4:56 pm | delete
    I colored my hair in august with highlights. Can j stil donate it?
  • SusanVillasLewis Mar 29, 2010 @ 5:30 pm | delete
    The highlights need to have completely grown out. Very few of the donation groups will accept anything but virgin hair. Check on the requirements for the specific group to ensure that's the case, though.
  • Dreamzanstuff Mar 24, 2010 @ 9:29 am | delete
    Great lens. I leaned a lot. Thank you.
  • Mr-Male-Baldness Mar 22, 2010 @ 1:08 pm | delete
    Great Lens.....I have only hear of Locks of Love ---Who knew there are other places to donate hair.......
  • arncyn Mar 22, 2010 @ 10:19 am | delete
    I've never done it before but it sounds like a good idea! Wonderful topic for a lens, *blessed*
  • JMc62377 Mar 19, 2010 @ 4:12 am | delete
    Really great lens! 5 stars! One of my mom's last acts before she died was to donate her hair to locks of love. It was about 16 inches.
  • johnsmythelinks Mar 16, 2010 @ 6:15 pm | delete
    An excellent new concept - I was not aware of it
  • Helen Licu Mar 13, 2010 @ 5:39 pm | delete
    do they accept hair that is colored regularly?
  • Maryaunt Mar 13, 2010 @ 5:35 pm | delete
    I am planning on donating the 1st week in April and am trying to find a charity that will use my hair to help someone in need. My hair is virgin and in excellent condition so I am very concerned that many of the places will sell it off instead of the intended use. I've heard Locks sells most of the donations they receive and the Pantene program deals through a celebrity extension store. I am very concerned and could use help in picking the right charity. Please help!
  • Dev-rock Mar 10, 2010 @ 7:34 pm | delete
    uhh what if your bangs are a bit shorter than the rest of your hair? does it just take the longer stuff? take all but like the 2 inches on the longer hair? oh and when the bang length hits the requirements does it matter if it's different, can they take it all no matter what?
  • hippie Mar 9, 2010 @ 10:37 am | delete
    I've got some pretty long hair for a guy but I'm not sure how long it has to be to donate. I keep seeing 10 inches, would they except 8 or 9?
  • SusanVillasLewis Mar 9, 2010 @ 11:35 am | delete
    @hippie - if you check the different groups, you'll see there are a couple that accept 8 inches, including the Pantene program. Others will accept shorter lengths, but they're more likely to sell the hair than use it in an actual wig. Up to you how much it matters to you that it goes into a hairpiece.
  • prjcollaboration Mar 4, 2010 @ 12:42 pm | delete
    Nice post, Well described about how to donate hair. I knew there is a idea about donating hair just like blood, eyes, kidney etc. but there many fraud group about these type donation so I think we should be careful about it. We should be sure about that we are donating to right person or entity who will use these for charity only.
  • hayleylou Mar 1, 2010 @ 2:09 pm | delete
    Fantastic lens, so much information and all in a good cause, excellent work - 5 stars and a fav
  • howtoplaybass Feb 22, 2010 @ 6:55 pm | delete
    I did not know that you could donate your hair. Nice information.
  • Soul-Mate Feb 19, 2010 @ 8:18 am | delete
    Good on you for donating! My hair is down to my bum and in excellent condition. But I'm far to attached to it to donate it. I mean who would I be without my hair?
  • Mattayus Feb 10, 2010 @ 12:28 pm | delete
    My girlfriend decided to chop all her hair off because she wanted to get rid of the dye. She debated about donating but decided not to because her hair wasn't in very good condition due to layers of dye. She sure misses it now, especially since I have long long hair myself.
  • Kc Feb 10, 2010 @ 9:55 am | delete
    I have been growing my hair out for 8 months and it's about 4 inches long. I am going to shave it off. I wanted to know if there are any organizations that take shorter then 6 inches? I want to donate my hair since Ive lost one grandma to breast cancer and my other grandma only has a couple weeks to live due to bone cancer.
  • SusanVillasLewis Feb 12, 2010 @ 1:42 pm | delete
    KC - no group takes less than six inches for use in a hairpiece. You could send it to Matter of Trust, but that's not really consistent with your motivation for donating. Sorry.
  • Molly Feb 23, 2010 @ 1:15 pm | delete
    You can still send off shorter hair to Locks of Love ~ I believe it is sold for some other purpose other than wigs.
  • NoelWright Feb 10, 2010 @ 7:45 am | delete
    nice hub!
  • Judi Feb 8, 2010 @ 8:27 pm | delete
    I am a 58 year old widow and grew my hair to donate. Does anyone want gray wavy hair?
  • SusanVillasLewis Feb 12, 2010 @ 1:44 pm | delete
    Wavy isn't a problem, but most groups don't accept hair with more than 10 percent or so gray. Just too hard to ensure you get an even dye job with that.
  • Page Hammond pageshammond@gmail.com Feb 7, 2010 @ 10:59 am | delete
    I have a bundle (hank?) of my hair that is 10 to 12" long, that was cut when I was 12, fifty years ago. It has been wrapped and stored...pristine. Is it usable? Who might take it?
  • SusanVillasLewis Feb 7, 2010 @ 10:56 am | delete
    Page - as far as I know, the age of the hair isn't really important. As long as it was stored away dry, it should be usable. And at that length, just about any of the organizations could use it.
  • EverydayMiracles Feb 7, 2010 @ 1:20 am | delete
    I've always wanted to donate my hair. I am favoriting this lens so that when I'm ready I can remind myself of the steps to go through. I have some damage to grow out before I can begin, so it will be a while.
  • jessicahoward Feb 5, 2010 @ 1:27 am | delete
    it is really a great lens, even my friend is too interested in giving hairs. thanks for the information you share with us.
  • Steve X Feb 4, 2010 @ 3:19 pm | delete
    My name's Steve, 26, California and I've been growing my hair for 3 years- specifically with the purpose of donating it. Over the last few weeks, I decided I was done growing. So last night, my girlfriend took out the shears, and I decided to go with a mohawk. Sorry I don't have any pics to put up.
    But, if your a guy, especially in college or high school (simply because that's when we feel we need to grow our hair as men) this is the coolest thing to do. I'm so glad I founf this site to help explain how it works, I'm pretty sure I'm going with Pantene's thing- A lot of my parents friends have been diagnosed with cancer and gone through some rough therapy, so I think that's where I would like it to go.

    THANKS!!
  • Darryl Feb 1, 2010 @ 4:02 pm | delete
    i have dreds and i really want to know if there is any organization that would take my hair as an offering and do something worthy with them?
  • SusanVillasLewis Feb 7, 2010 @ 10:57 am | delete
    Darryl - my understanding is that no group accepts dreds for use in a hair piece. Just too difficult to match with other hair. If you send it, they'd just have to toss it out. I'm not sure you could even sell it for money to make a donation. Sorry.
  • July4 Jan 28, 2010 @ 12:39 pm | delete
    Great informative lens-5 star! Thanks for passing the word for something this important
  • M Turner Jan 23, 2010 @ 12:05 pm | delete
    Donated to locks of love before. Want to find an organization that will not charge patients for the wig. Can you help - 11+ inches now.
  • SusanVillasLewis Feb 7, 2010 @ 12:00 pm | delete
    Hi, M - Most of the groups that do hairpieces for kids do charge, but on a sliding scale. So there are potentially some kids who could get their pieces for free. It's so expensive to make hairpieces even with donated hair that it's hard to give them away completely for free. Check out Pantene's program, although you might prefer a kid's group.
  • ?? Jan 21, 2010 @ 9:58 am | delete
    can i donate my hair if i smoke or do drugs?
  • SusanVillasLewis Feb 7, 2010 @ 11:01 am | delete
    As far as I know, there are no restrictions about smoking or drugs. (They don't really test your hair or anything for stuff like that.) Just make sure the hair is clean so it doesn't smell all smokey - get it washed and cut it at the salon instead of at home maybe.
  • emily Jan 16, 2010 @ 10:21 am | delete
    i got my hair colored at home with one of those loreal hair color box. would i be able to donate my hair? and it was the first time i colored my hair so my hair isn't that dry
  • SusanVillasLewis Feb 7, 2010 @ 11:03 am | delete
    Hair needs to be in the best condition possible to be made into a hairpiece. They have to be able to dye all the hair from several people to the same color, which is why they ask for virgin hair - it takes color best. Doesn't matter if you did it at home or in the salon.
  • christian-book-man Jan 3, 2010 @ 9:36 am | delete
    I have heard of this before but I never paid much attention to it. Being able to read you lens is just an amazing learning. Hair Charity is probably one of the most sincere way for helping , and it would be such joy and fulfillment not only to the donor but to the recipient as well.
  • David K Jan 3, 2010 @ 1:45 am | delete
    I had my hair cut when i was in Bangkok for Education for Kids as a present for my wife. I saved my hair for donations but i did not have my hair washed when i had the hair cut but I had my hair I washed my hair about 5 hours before the hair cut. I do not want to waste it after 2 years of growing to reach the length that can be donated. If someone think that will be useful please hit me up at dshanlay@yahoo.com with the subject (We need your hair). If other subjects, I will just overlooked and might end up in spam. Please do not attach links or photos or any files. I wont open the email.
  • allison Dec 30, 2009 @ 9:19 pm | delete
    can i donate if i have highlights.
  • SusanVillasLewis Feb 7, 2010 @ 11:04 am | delete
    They ask for virgin hair and highlights are about the roughest type of coloring you can do. Double-check with the group you want to donate to, but usually the answer is no.
  • gim Dec 17, 2009 @ 2:39 pm | delete
    I have some gray. Does that work?
  • Jackie Dec 21, 2009 @ 2:12 pm | delete
    you can donate your hair if it has gray or not it does not matter
  • Josie Banks Jan 11, 2010 @ 7:51 am | delete
    i have some gray hair and quite a bit of black hair. i have at least 6 inches to cut off. Can my hair be used?
  • SusanVillasLewis Feb 7, 2010 @ 12:05 pm | delete
    Depends on the group. They need to be able to color all the hair donations to the same shade and gray doesn't always take color well. Some groups say no gray, others allow a certain amount. I believe Pantene and Children With Hair Loss are among the ones that allow a little.
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SusanVillasLewis

Basic gal from the Dallas area who has a lot to say!! I'm working on lens related to my odd-ball interests.
Saying even more over on my blog, It's My... more »

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