As the weather gets warmer, you may be feeling like heading to the salon for a fresh trim. While there is no clear-cut guide for the perfect ‘do that suits all, there are some styles that might feel more dated on those over 50, and we checked in with professional hair stylists to learn more.
If your goal is a fun new look that plays up your best features (and to find out which 2 styles you might want to skip), read on for tips and suggestions from Janine Jarman, celebrity hair stylist and founder of Curl Cult and Lauren Udoh, professional hair stylist and hair creative director of WigReports.
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1. Long, Layerless, Middle-Parted Hair
While long hair is often synonymous with youth, health and timeless beauty, Jarman warns that without any layers or movement added, your locks can look flat with this style over 50. "Extra long straight hair with a middle part can drag your face down," she explains, adding, "it lacks much needed volume to give life and vibrancy in your hair." With "unnecessary length on fine and thinning hair," this might create the opposite effect of what you're aiming for, she notes.
"Although it may feel like it will help to grow your hair out if you are experiencing hair thinning with age, it does the opposite and it makes it split and drags the volume out more," she says. "If you are having a hard time hiding your scalp, getting a shorter cut could really help make your hair look fuller and make it easier to manage," she advises. Udoh agrees, and says that a straight, long cut "can give the illusion of thinner hair, making someone look older." Instead of this style, she recommends trying "a layered cut or beachy waves," as "these styles will add volume and texture and help you look your best."
2. One-Length Bob Falling At Shoulders
A one-length, layereless bob that ends right at the shoulders can also create a flat and lifeless look, drawing more attention to signs of aging, Jarman says. "This length crowds your neck and shoulders and can look unflattering as a result," she adds. If you are at this length, she recommends "breaking it up with layers and fringe."
This hairstyle, Udoh points out, can "often age someone if not styled correctly or if too plain." For example, she says that a long bob like this "can make someone look older if it is cut straight across and is not layered." Alternatively, she advises against going for a cut that is "too choppy or unkempt," and considering subtle, face-framing layers to your desired length, instead.
