Your time is precious — but you still want your hair to look amazing. Believe it or not, this isn’t a dilemma because there are a number of amazing hairstyles that are super low-maintenance, won’t require tons of product and styling know-how, yet always looks fabulous and modern. Great hair is sometimes about working smarter, not working harder. And that wisdom begins in your stylist’s chair. Start with a fresh haircut that gives you a more youthful look and your job at home (on busy morning) will be that much easier. Dr. Vinod Vij, a consultant at ClinicSpots, offers suggestions on time-saving low-maintenance hairstyles that look especially great on women over 40.
Bob Cut
The classic bob cut is a timeless style that looks great on women of all ages, especially those over 40. “It's an incredibly low-maintenance hairstyle, as it requires minimal styling and products to keep it looking its best,” Vij says.
To achieve this look, Vij suggests opting for a mid-length cut with layers at the ends and getting regular trims every 6-8 weeks to keep your hair healthy and shapely. Don’t forget to use a heat protectant spray before blow drying or styling with hot tools, and use a light-hold hairspray or wax to add texture and definition.
Pixie Cut
A chic pixie cut works well for short hair that's naturally fine or thinning with age — plus, it's one of the lowest-maintenance hairstyles out there. “Keep the top and sides longer for a modern look, and add texture with a light styling product like mousse or wax,” Vij says. “When blow drying, use a round brush to give it lift at the roots for extra volume.”
The best part is that this cut requires minimal upkeep – just make sure you get regular trims every few weeks to keep it looking fresh.
Long Layers
You don’t have to cut your hair short just because you’ve reached a certain age, but avoiding one-layer hair is key to giving your face a bit of a lift. “Long layers are perfect for women over 40 who want to show off their length without too much fuss,” Vij says. “This style looks best when paired with subtle highlights that frame your face and add dimension — ask your stylist about balayage or ombre coloring techniques that will blend nicely into your natural color.”
To keep this style looking low maintenance, use a light styling product and an occasional touch-up with a flat iron.
Blunt Bangs
Blunt bangs bring a youthful energy to any hairstyle and work well for women over 40 who want to make a statement without too much commitment, according to Vij. “Ask your stylist for long, face-framing layers around your bangs for added dimension — then style as desired with heat protectant spray, mousse, and/or hairspray,” Vij says.
When it comes to upkeep, you'll need regular trims every 6-8 weeks to keep them polished and fresh.
You don’t always have to make big changes to your hair to get the most impact. These four hairstyles are easy, breezy, and look modern and fresh.
