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In all cultures and throughout history hair has had
a special significance.
Hair is a natural human beauty accessory and is full
of symbolic importance as a means of personal expression.
The Egyptians - Hair
as a symbol of status
In ancient Egypt, as long ago as 1500 BC, the outward
appearance expressed the person's status, role in
society and political position. Wigs played an important
role in this: they were crafted with great artistry
and often sprinkled with powdered gold
The Celts - Hair
as a symbol of strength
In the 8th century BC, the pre-Roman Celts in Northern
Europe wore their hair long. In a man it was the expression
of his strength, in a woman of her fertility. Men
and women wore ornate locks or braided their hair
and used jewellery to bind the ends of their hair
together.
The Bible - The story
of Samson and Delilah
The idea of long hair as a symbol of male strength
is even mentioned in the Bible, in the story of Samson
and Delilah. Samson was a leader of the Israelites
and had been chosen by God. His long hair, which he
never cut, gave him superhuman powers. The only person
who knew his secret was Delilah. However, she spied
for the enemy and betrayed him. One night she cut
off his hair and thus robbed him of his strength.
This was the only way in which he could be caught
by his enemies.
The Greek - Hair
as an expression of attitude
In the classical Greek period (from 500 - 400 BC)
curly hair was not only the fashion of the day, but
it also represented an attitude towards life. Curls
were the metaphor for turbulence, change, freedom
and the joy of living. The ancient Greek word "oulos"
is related to intrigue, and the German word "locken"
still has two meanings: to curl and to tempt someone.
Medusa - Hair as
an expression of danger
Hair can also become a curse. Medusa, a figure from
Greek mythology, was a beautiful woman, who was seduced
by Poseidon in one of Athene's temples. She turned
Medusa into a gorgon and her most beautiful feature,
the curls, into snakes. Every man who looked at her
turned into stone.
The 1960ies - Hair
as a sign of liberation
A different form of objection could be seen in the
women's hairstyles in the 1960's.
Women's liberation was expressed in a short-cut, straight
and simple hairstyle which underlined equality with
men without neglecting female attributes.
Hair in the 21st
century
To this day hair has kept its importance as a symbol
of power, youth, vitality and health.
Nowadays hairstyles and fashions differ widely - but
the importance of healthy hair remains unchanged.
Loss of hair or hair damage is not only considered
a medical problem, but can also severely disturb a
person's mental balance and general well-being. NEWCARE
helps women all over the world to grow and keep full,
healthy hair.
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