Understanding Hair Symbolism in Astrology

Hair Symbolism and Its Meaning from an Astrological Perspective

Published in: Riza Psicosomatica no. 64 June 1986

Italian version

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In astrological symbolism, hair represents instinct and is associated with Mars, which, along with the spring sign of Aries, governs vital energy and the head, and its related parts. The glyph for Mars consists of a circle with an arrow extending from it, symbolising what emerges from the bodily horizon. Thus, hair and body hair can be seen as secondary aspects of vital and sexual energy.

In men, the consistency of hair and the presence of a beard—often bristly and growing rapidly—indicate a distinctly male energy. This energy penetrates and is phallic in nature, much like the shape of the hair itself. In women, hair is predominantly found on the head and in the pubic area. Women’s hair tends to be styled in more elaborate ways, and along with pubic hair, it serves as a source of attraction that manifests the feminine energy, which is formal, encompassing, and inviting. Additionally, it is noteworthy that fashions and customs often highlight the yin and yang aspects of energy, reflecting the mood of the times, irrespective of gender.

In the context of Gemini and its ruling planet, Mercury, the symbolism of hair becomes significant. This symbolism is derived from the myth of Castor and Pollux, the human and divine sons of Zeus. Astrology uses this myth to highlight the dual nature of humanity, which exists between instinct and reason, as well as between primitive tendencies and the organisation of consciousness ¹. Both the sign of Gemini and Mercury embody a duality, much like humans who seek balance and integration between the material world (immanence) and the spiritual realm (transcendence). It is therefore not surprising that the sense of consciousness and cerebral activity, located at the top of the head, is closely linked to hair, which serves as a residual expression of our animal instincts.

Here, the primary assumption of astrology is released:

Hair, as a secondary expression of our instincts, is positioned at the highest point on our bodies. This serves as a reminder that we do not exist in a sterile state of pure essence; instead, we must continually engage with our instinctual nature. From this perspective, hair represents a convergence of instinct and reason, reflecting the interplay of thought applied to the various aspects of reality.

Hair can be seen as an instinctual residue that remains after being processed by reason. Hair loss, therefore, reflects a desire to eliminate unbearable thoughts and signifies a cathartic sacrifice of concepts and ideas deemed impure by education and morality. Losing hair represents a “cleaning” of thoughts, bringing one closer to a state of essence and purity ².

From this viewpoint, ritual tonsure serves to sever connections with instinct, allowing for direct communication with the transcendent through the top of the head. So at the extremes of the human lifespan—namely, the elderly and newborns, who possess little or no hair—we find symbols of purity and a relinquishing of the complexities of existence.

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1. The Dioscuri (sons of Zeus), Castor and Pollux, were considered protectors of home, hospitality, oaths, friendships, and sporting events. Castor was known for his talent in taming and training horses, while Pollux excelled in boxing. Both of these attributes reflect the ability to balance instinct and aggressive impulses with reason, achieved through training and discipline. ↩︎
2. Certain stress factors and specific existential orientations can accelerate hair loss in individuals genetically predisposed to it, a condition known as androgenetic alopecia. It is important to note that cases of alopecia caused by other primary disorders, such as hypothyroidism, hormonal imbalances, chemotherapy treatments, or scalp infections, should not be included in this discussion. ↩︎