Having fine hair shouldn’t mean having to make concessions when it comes to the amazing hairstyles you can try on for size. Although there are some you may choose to avoid because they can make hair look limp — like one-layer hair that falls flat on top — there are plenty of shorter hairstyles that give your hair lift and volume while effortlessly highlighting facial features such as prominent cheekbones, a strong jawline, or striking eyes.
The most important thing to remember when visiting your stylist is that no two bobs or pixie cuts are alike. The key to getting the best style for YOU is to personalize it to suit your hair and features. Caleb Backe, a hair expert for Maple Holistics, reveals the most flattering short hairstyles for older women with fine hair.
Layered Bob
A layered bob haircut works wonders for hiding thinning hair in mature women, according to Backe. “The layers add volume and movement to the hair, creating the illusion of thickness,” Backe says. “By keeping the hair shorter in the back and slightly longer in the front, the layered bob adds texture and dimension, making the hair appear fuller. Styling with a side part can also help to camouflage any sparse areas, directing attention away from thinning spots.
Side-Swept Pixie Cut
Pixie cuts can be customized to suit your face and your personal style. And anything from tousled pixies with longer pieces on top to side-swept pixies goes. “A side-swept pixie cut is another excellent option for concealing thinning hair,” Backe says. “The short length of the pixie cut reduces the weight of the hair, preventing it from appearing flat and limp. By sweeping the hair to one side, it creates asymmetry and adds volume on the opposite side, giving the illusion of more hair. Additionally, styling the hair with a lightweight volumizing product can further enhance the appearance of thickness and texture.”
Textured Shoulder-Length Hairstyle
Super-short hair isn’t for everyone. If you prefer a little length, consider a textured shoulder-length hairstyle, which Backe says is a versatile choice for mature women with thinning hair. “By incorporating layers and texture throughout the hair, it adds fullness and movement,” Backe says. “The length of the hairstyle allows for more coverage, making it easier to conceal any areas of thinning. Styling with loose waves or curls can also help to create volume and give the hair a more voluminous appearance.”
Which styles should be avoided if you have thinning hair?
If your hair is fine or thin, you may want to consider avoiding these styles, which Backe says may only call attention to finer hair.
Long, Heavy Hair: Very long hair can weigh down thinning hair, making it look even thinner and less voluminous, according to Backe. Opting for shorter or medium-length styles can help add the appearance of fullness and reduce the weight on the hair.
Blunt Bangs: “Blunt bangs can draw attention to the forehead and highlight any sparse areas or receding hairline,” Backe says. “Instead, consider side-swept bangs or longer, face-framing layers to create softness and distract from thinning areas.”
Sleek, Flat Styles: Straight, sleek hairstyles can accentuate thinning hair by emphasizing flatness and lack of volume, Backe says/ Adding texture and movement to the hair, such as through layers or curls, can give the illusion of fuller hair.
High Ponytails or Updos: “Styles that pull the hair tightly, like high ponytails or updos, can expose areas of thinning and make them more noticeable,” Backe says. “Looser, more relaxed updos or low ponytails can be better options, as they distribute the hair more evenly and create a softer look.”
Don’t give up having fun with your hair, no matter your age or hair texture. By adjusting your look to suit your hair type you’ll make the most of what you got.
