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A new haircut can make all the difference when it comes to achieving a more youthful look. Getting rid of split ends always makes your hair look fresher and more polished, but certain hairstyles can even go a step further – acting as a (much less expensive) facelift. One similarity between all these styles? Layers. Layers are an amazing way to give your hair more texture and body while also framing your face with all the right angles. No matter what length or style you prefer, there’s a layered haircut that can work for you, making your anti-aging goals a reality.
Shoulder-Length with Layers
Keeping your hair shoulder-length is a great way to give yourself a younger-looking appearance. "Long hair drags the eyes down, emphasizing drooping facial features," Carrie Butterworth, a hairstylist at Roy Teeluck in New York City, tells Prevention. Layers add texture to this style, making your hair look much fuller.
"A shorter cut is a non-surgical facelift that draws the eye away from facial imperfections," Butterworth explains. It's a much less expensive alternative, too!
Layered Bangs
Bangs are a go-to for women over 40 since they instantly hide any forehead wrinkles – and, depending on your style, crow's feet too! Plus, layered bangs are a much softer, less severe look than blunt bangs. Speaking to Reader's Digest, Sophia Porter, hairstylist and makeup artist, explains how this layered look can take years off your face.
"Bangs are a fantastic way to add softness and hide any dynamic lines on a person’s forehead," Porter says, "Keeping a soft wave in the rest of the hair with wispy bangs is a fresh, stylish look for women of all ages."
Layered Pixie
If you want to go for a more drastic, short cut, the pixie is a great option. And Jamie Lee Curtis is all the proof you need! Though if you do want an expert opinion, Gabriella Agrusa, Advanced Director and Colour Director at Blushes Hair & Beauty, explains exactly why this cut is so flattering for older women.
"The pixie cut is effortlessly feminine, with an edgy twist. As we get older our hair tends to get a little thinner, so taking it that bit shorter helps maximise the appearance of thickness. The layers are cut much shorter on the top and crown section of the head for added height, allowing for lots of movement,” says Agrusa.
Since your hair naturally thins out as you grow older, the pixie cut is a great way to disguise that process. Plus, it's a low-maintenance look for anyone low on time.
