For many of us, the first month of 2024 sparks a desire for fresh starts and change, often manifesting in a visit to the salon to revamp our hair. Seeking guidance from skilled hair stylists, we learned that there are certain hair colors that women over 40 should steer clear of this winter, as they may unintentionally “age” them or add years to one’s appearance and draw attention to thinning or loss.
Thankfully, the experts also provided recommendations for two alternative hair colors that are both on-trend and complimentary. Additionally, they shared helpful tips for achieving a timeless and radiant look that will have us feeling confident and beautiful.
Read on for suggestions and insight from Ghanima Abdullah, hair expert and cosmetologist at The Right Hairstyles, Greg Decker, pro hair stylist and colorist, Lauren Udoh, pro hair stylist and Hair Creative Director at WigReports, Jerome Lordet, director and professional stylist at Pierre Michel Salon and Gina Rivera, celebrity hair stylist and founder of Phenix Salon Suites.
2 'Aging' Hair Colors For Women Over 40 To Avoid This Winter
1. Skip Heavily Bleached Blonde
Abdullah advises against bleaching hair down to the roots for those over 40 who want to go blonde (or blonder) this winter. Bleaching or coloring "all the way down to the roots" is a big no-no, Abdullah stresses."If the hair dye or bleach reaches the scalp, it can cause damage to the scalp, which can then cause hair thinning," she warns.
Instead, Decker and Udoh recommend the trendy 'mushroom bronde' hair color that is currently all the rage on TikTok, and a great way to freshen up your hair while still rocking a blonde look.
When it comes to a 'mushroom' hair color, Decker explains that this look "mimics the many ashy tones of mushrooms as well as the deeper hues on their undersides to create that subtle and cool color." He adds that it is ultimately a "blonde hair color but a bit on the darker side with gray and purple undertones."
Instead, Try Flattering, Trendy 'Bronde'
When it comes to this the ever-so-popular 'bronde' look, Decker points out that it is "surely [one of the] the top trends of this season, and it is a sweet blend of brown and blonde tones." It helps you strike a balance with "stunning sun kisses while rendering that neutral effect." This multi-dimensional color, he adds, "features a dark base with subtle highlights to get the desired look."
When combining these two elements—mushroom and bronde— Udoh says that this creates the "perfect balance between dark and light tones, and is the ideal choice for those wanting to lighten their complexion subtly without going too bright." She also says that Hailey Bieber's "soft blend of ashy warm browns and cool smoky grays" is the perfect option for clients looking for "something on trend yet still versatile enough to transition seasonally."
2. Skip Pitch-Black
Abdullah observes that although jet-black dyed hair can exude an alluring and formidable aura, it may not be the most suitable option for older women as it can accentuate wrinkles and draw unwanted attention to fine lines. "If your hair is thinning, you don't really want to dye your hair black. Dark colors can emphasize any scalp that's showing," she says.
Udoh adds that going too dark can sometimes "make the hair look thinner and lifeless," while going too light, on the other hand, can "make the scalp more visible." It’s important to find a color that compliments your skin tone, she says, and gives the hair a healthy-looking shine.
For those who are unsure about how to begin, experts suggest experimenting with a luxurious chocolate brown hue. This shade should be dark enough to flatter brunettes and accentuate their natural beauty, while still being light enough to highlight their prominent facial features like eyes and cheekbones instead of any fine lines or wrinkles.
Instead, Try Timeless Rich Chocolate Brown
This look has become rather popular, Lordet notes, because it "helps to make your complexion warmer, giving you a cozy feel during the colder months."
If you're used to a darker brown or black hue, going a little lighter or for a more vibrant chocolate brown like Emily Ratajkowski can "add texture to your hair, making it look fuller as well," Rivera notes.
She adds that changing your color over 40 is a "terrific option for adding depth and dimension to fine hair," especially as it naturally becomes less thick with age.
The Bottom Line
This winter, there are many fashionable colors to experiment with, but two that stand out are worth trying. However, experts warn against choosing shades that are too light or dark, as this could result in a visible scalp or damaged hair.
To ensure a flattering outcome, it's recommended to discuss your skin tone with your hairstylist and seek their input on what would suit you best. By taking these steps, you can refresh your appearance and boost your self-assurance, as noted by Rivera.
