If you’re searching for a hairstyle that is fun, fresh, and a little wild, the ice cream haircut is the whimsical trend that has taken barbershops, salons, and social media feeds over the world. With bold colors, layered textures, and sometimes even pictures or designs inspired by ice cream, this fun haircut is made to be about more than just style; it’s meant to make a statement.
Whatever the case-from a parent looking to consider painting a silly cut on their child to the bold self-expression of the owner-the following is everything there is to know about the ice cream haircut and how to wear it.
What Is an Ice Cream Haircut?
The term ice cream haircut might sound a tad odd at first-but it’s exactly what it sounds like: a haircut inspired visually by the ice cream cone, the swirls, the colors, and the scoops.
Two main interpretations exist:
Colorful, Fun Designs: These haircuts are pastel or bright colors resembling ice cream flavors, adorned with either swirled patterns or textures akin to scoops.
Kids’ Haircuts: Some salons associate ice cream haircuts with kids’ haircuts and throw in a treat afterwards to distract from the fear of the haircut.
In any manner, all talk about joy, color, and fun.
When Did the Ice Cream Haircut Trend Begin?
While dessert-inspired designs were being showcased by stylists on TikTok and Pinterest, the trend began gaining momentum when the bold designs and colors stole the attention of:
Creative hair artists
Trend-minded teens and tweens
Parents wanting a fun and less scary haircut experience for kids
Ever since, the trend has taken over salons worldwide, with stylists adding their own interpretations with colors, clippers, and 3D designs.
Ice Cream Haircuts for Kids
Kids Love It:
Makes getting a haircut fun rather than scary.
Salons sometimes give real or plastic ice cream after the haircut.
Kids can choose their “flavor”—soft pinks, blue, or green.
Child Styles:
Light swirl designs on the sides
Temporary hair chalk or spray color
Cartoon proclivities to cut shapes and soft curls
Some salons specializing in themed cuts offer organic, kid-safe, washable dyes for easy, short-lived, no-maintenance looks.
Ice Cream Haircuts for Kids and Teens
Teenagers and adults have embraced this trend as a way to showcase individuality and style. Among creative industries in music, fashion, and digital content, these trends have found circulation.
Teeny-Like Things:
Sherbet colors, loud color block
Undercuts with shave designs in ice cream scoops;
Half-and-half pastels: mint and lavender;
For Grownups:
Tasteful balayage in “strawberry” or “vanilla bean” tones
Swirly ombres
Splain with cone-inspired sideshow and bright tips
The ice cream haircut can be as loud or subtle as you like—making it versatile for all ages.
Most Popular Ice Cream Haircut Designs
Here are some trending ice cream haircut ideas seen in 2025:
Swirled Scoop Fade
A barber’s favorite: the sides are faded with spiral “scoops” carved in, dyed pastel pink or mint.
Triple Flavor Layers
Bob or layered cut dipped in three colors-chocolate brown, vanilla blonde, and strawberry pink.
Cone-Inspired Undercut
The underlayer of hair is shaved into a triangle pattern, colored as that of an ice-cream cone.
Rainbow Sherbet Bob
Soft chin-length bob with blended-orange, green, and raspberry shades.
Soft Serve Ponytail
High ponytail with tight curls or waves, dyed in creamy whites and pastels, giving the illusion of soft serve.
These styles perfectly combine the finesse of a cut and bright colors that resemble freshly scooped ice cream.
How to go about getting an ice-cream haircut
The Process:
Find Your Specialist: When it comes to the final look of color and styling, find a colorist or a barber who has experience with creative or fantasy hairstyles.
Consultation and Customization: Pick your “flavors” (colors), patterns, and levels of boldness.
Prep the Hair: Healthy-looking hair takes better dye. Get your hair professionally masked or treated in the days leading up to your appointment.
Cut + Color: Assuming there are no hitches in the trip, the process will take approximately 2-4 hours based on its complexity.
Finish and Style: The finale may feature curls, waves, or texturing to resemble more of a “scoop” effect!
And it goes without saying that you should bring some reference images and have a thorough discussion with your stylist.
Maintenance and Hair Care Tips
An ice-cream haircut can definitely demand upkeep, particularly when dyed. Here are ways to maintain this hulk for that extra buzz:
Hair Care-Fundamentals:
Color-Safe Shampoo: Should be sulfate-free for the protection of bright dyes.
Deep Conditioner: Keeps the hair soft and moisturized.
Dry Shampoo: Preserves the color between washes.
UV/Heat Protection Spray: Avoids fading due to sun exposure and styling tools.
Tips:
Get touch-ups every 4 to 6 weeks
Avoid styling with heat daily
Rinse hair with cold water
Care helps your ice cream hair look fresh…not melted.
Pros and Cons of Ice-Cream Haircut
Pros:
Intriguingly personalized and fun
Good for conversation (or social media) when one gets it.
Allows for creative self-expression
Makes kids excited over haircuts!
Cons:
Not always work-appropriate
Maintenance can be a tad troublesome
Vivid dyes can do their bit of harm over time
Not very good for fine or thin hair types
Strike a balance between creativity and practicality to find the one that works for you.
Influence of Celebrity and Social Media
The ice-cream haircuts have thus been greatly embraced by many influencers and celebrities:
Billie Eilish: With her half-neon, half-black looks representing the sherbet hues.
Doja Cat: Has been known to wear interesting pastel wigs and weird buzz cuts.
TikTok Creators: The trendiest creators showcase rainbow fades, ice cream swirl patterns, and DIY tutorials.
These influential personalities motivate thousands to confidently try creative designs.
Conclusion
The ice cream haircut is more than just a playful hairstyle—it’s a deliciously creative form of self-expression. Whether you’re going for pastel sherbet waves, an undercut cone design, or just adding some swirl to your child’s next trim, this trend offers something fresh, bold, and undeniably fun.
FAQs About the Ice Cream Haircut
Is the ice cream haircut just for kids?
No! While it’s popular with children, many teens and adults enjoy this trend too—especially those in creative communities.
How long do the colors last?
Most semi-permanent colors fade after 4–6 weeks, but can last longer with proper care.
Can you get an ice cream haircut without dye?
Absolutely. You can stick to cuts, textures, and patterns alone. Temporary hair chalk or clip-ins are also great alternatives.
Is the haircut damaging?
The cut itself isn’t—but repeated bleaching or dyeing can be, so use conditioning treatments and avoid over-processing.
How much does it cost?
Prices range from $30 for a simple child-friendly cut to $150+ for a full-color artistic design.
Ready to try it out? Visit a creative stylist near you or explore inspiration on Instagram and TikTok. Don’t forget to share your new look with the world—you might just inspire the next trend!
