Four hair mistakes that make women over 40 ‘look so much older’ (2024)

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Four hair mistakes that make women over 40 ‘look so much older’ (1)

'Immediately age you!' Four hair mistakes that make women over 40 ‘look so much older’ (Image: GETTY)

As women get older, hair texture changes and for many, it thins. The best way to combat thinning is by adding layers, however, the incorrect placement of layers or the wrong type can draw more attention to signs of ageing. Hair experts have shared their dos and don’ts when it comes to mature ladies asking for layers to boost hair volume.

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Jack Miles and Rosie Myers have decades of experience cutting and styling hair. Between them, they have said four types of layers can age someone.

These are layers that are too short, layers that are too long, layers that are too uniform, and having too many layers.

Layers that are too short

Similarly, cutting layers too short can make women look older than they are.

Rosie said this is because the short layers “draw attention to wrinkles” and leave you “nowhere to hide”.

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Layers that are too long

Many women say “I want layers but keep the length” when sitting in a hair salon chair. But you want to be careful when it comes to having long layers.

Jack explained: “When layers are cut too long, they can end up creating a 'stringy' appearance.”

In turn, the hair appears “thin and lifeless” and can “immediately age you”.

if you’re someone with already fine hair, long layers can “give the impression that your hair is thinning with age”.

Long layers also “drag down the face, with heavy ends giving your face a drooping appearance”, the hair expert said.

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    Layers that are too uniform

    When “layers are cut to the same length throughout the entire head, it can create a flat, monotone look”, Jack said.

    This can then make the hair “look dull and lifeless”, and flat or one-dimensional.

    Layers that are too similar can also “act like an arrow to areas you’d rather hide”.

    When having layers cut to the same length, it can point out fine lines and wrinkles on the face.

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    Four hair mistakes that make women over 40 ‘look so much older’ (6)

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    Having too many layers

    Too many layers don’t add volume, they can make the hair stick to the scalp, resulting in a choppy and messy look.

    Rosie said if choppy layers are “too blunt they can end up making you look far older”.

    Many might think choppy layers are fun and create a youthful look, but they can “create a harsh, unbalanced look that can take away definition from the face”.

    Instead, you can end up with an “unruly and unkempt” finish.

    Unless you have very dense, thick hair, lots of layers can create an uneven appearance, and instead of making hair look voluminous, it appears dry and static.

    Lots of layers are also unnatural, and “hard to pull off [if you’re over 40”, Jack added.

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    Layers for a youthful appearance

    The best way to “make yourself more youthful” with a haircut is by adding “face-framing layers”.

    Face-framing layers “soften the face” and break up any harsh lines, as well as adding some “roundness and body”, Jack suggests. They can also be “cut on an angle” so the hair moves naturally, and can produce texture to “lift the face”.

    Curtain bangs are also a great way to modernise a haircut and can be easily implemented into most styles. They are also “flattering to all face shapes” but opt for feathered ends instead of a blunt cut to “create a soft feminine look”.

    The hairstylist told She Finds how curtain bangs are “not only very flattering but give the face a softness that can instantly take years off”.

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    Four hair mistakes that make women over 40 ‘look so much older’ (2024)

    FAQs

    Four hair mistakes that make women over 40 ‘look so much older’? ›

    These are layers that are too short, layers that are too long, layers that are too uniform, and having too many layers.

    What length of hair makes a woman look younger? ›

    Will having long hair or short hair make me look younger? If you have medium to thick hair, a lengthier mane can give off an air of youthfulness. But if your hair leans thin, it's best to go with a cut that's mid-length or shorter to lend natural volume to your look.

    Does long hair make you look older after 40? ›

    There's a reason many older women choose to have chin-length hair, instead of longer tresses: “Long hair drags the eyes down, emphasizing drooping facial features,” Butterworth says. “A shorter cut is a non-surgical facelift that draws the eye away from facial imperfections.”

    What are the four haircut mistakes that instantly make you look older? ›

    Jack Miles and Rosie Myers have decades of experience cutting and styling hair. Between them, they have said four types of layers can age someone. These are layers that are too short, layers that are too long, layers that are too uniform, and having too many layers.

    What hairstyle never goes out of style? ›

    Answer: Timeless hairstyles for women include the classic bob, elegant chignon, and sophisticated ponytail. These versatile styles have remained popular for decades due to their timeless appeal and ability to complement various hair textures and face shapes.

    What color hair makes you look younger? ›

    Ten out of ten colorists agree, shades that are warm-toned read more youthful than cool-toned hair colors. Spicy copper reds, rich caramel brunettes, and soft honey blondes will warm up your complexion for younger-looking skin (hold the retinol).

    Which hair part makes you look younger? ›

    The Center Part

    "The middle part is one of the most fashionable hair trends," Bergamy tells us. "It gives a more youthful look without looking childish." It tends to work best on faces that are more or less symmetrical, but can also help elongate shorter, wider face shapes.

    Does shoulder-length hair age you? ›

    Shoulder-Length Cut With Layers

    "Jennifer Aniston has had this length, and what makes it look youthful is when the ends are shattered to keep it from looking blunt and heavy around the perimeter," says Zinno. He suggests longer angles around the face and below the jawline to keep the look flowing and soft.

    Do bangs age your face? ›

    The idea that bangs make you look like a child or too old is a common hair myth. The reality is that there are so many ways to style bangs. Each and every one of these styles brings a youthful energy to your look in a different way. Bangs can be chic, sweet, sultry — it's all in how you style them.

    Should an older woman have bangs? ›

    Haircuts with bangs can work like magic for older women! A fringe can take years off the face and make women over 40 look young and stylish.

    What makes a face look younger? ›

    Protecting your face from the sun is the single best way of keeping it youthful. Much of the damage comes from the UVA part of the light spectrum, so you need to put on sunscreen that protects against it and UVB light, which causes sunburn. Wearing a wide-brimmed hat is also a good idea. Creams and lotions.

    How should a 40 year old woman wear her hair? ›

    There's no age limit on a haircut. But a low maintenance, shorter hairstyle is a common choice for women over 40. This is likely because short hair often translates to less time spent shampooing, conditioning, drying, and styling. To prove how beautiful short hair can be, we consulted stylist Melanie Bolton.

    What happens to your hair when you turn 40? ›

    “People in their 40s may notice their hair becoming thinner, drier, and more brittle,” says Dr. Green. You will start to see more gray hairs forming, and you may feel that your hair is not as voluminous and prone to breaking. There may be increased shedding in the shower or when brushing.”

    How to look trendy over 40? ›

    Invest in high-quality basics like well-fitting jeans, crisp white t-shirts, and classic blazers. Experiment with bold prints, bright colors, and trendy accessories to add interest to your outfits. Try mixing and matching different textures and fabrics to create unique and personalized looks.

    Does cutting your hair make you look older or younger? ›

    Does short or long hair make you look younger? Long hair can enhance facial features by diverting attention away from wrinkles or age spots and adding volume to your hair. Short hair does not need to age you, though, as the style and texture of shorter hairstyles can add a youthful appearance.

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