Here's what we know:
* Very Early Humans: The earliest humans, such as Homo habilis and Homo erectus, likely had practical considerations for their hair. Hair could have been worn long for warmth, or perhaps tied back loosely to keep it out of their eyes. However, it's unlikely they had the means or time for elaborate styles.
* Neanderthals: There's some debate about Neanderthal hairstyles. Some theories suggest they may have used tools to manipulate their hair, perhaps to create simple partings or braids. However, this is still speculative.
* Early Homo Sapiens: As humans developed more complex tools and social structures, hairstyles likely became more varied.
* Braids and Knots: These are considered among the earliest and most practical hairstyles. They are relatively easy to create and can keep hair out of the face.
* Tying Back Hair: Using plant fibers, strips of leather, or other natural materials to tie back hair would have been a common and simple way to manage it.
* Cutting and Shaping: The development of sharp tools would have allowed for cutting and shaping hair, although the extent of this in very early times is uncertain.
Cave Paintings and Artifacts:
* Some cave paintings and ancient artifacts depict figures with what appear to be styled hair. However, it's often difficult to interpret these images definitively.
* Archaeological discoveries of combs and hair ornaments suggest that people were actively managing and styling their hair thousands of years ago.
Conclusion:
While we can't pinpoint the very first hairstyle, braiding and tying back hair are likely among the earliest and most widespread forms of hairstyling in human history. These styles were practical, relatively easy to create, and could have served both functional and possibly symbolic purposes. As tools and societies became more advanced, hairstyles likely became more elaborate and diverse.