As we get older, it’s natural for our hair and the way it frames our face to evolve. What looked amazing on you 15 years ago might not have the same effect today, and that’s perfectly normal. Hair texture, density, and color change with age, which means the cuts and styles that once flattered you might now feel a little less lively or polished. Refreshing your look every few years with a great haircut or hair color helps keep your hair in harmony with who you are right now and can make you feel and look more radiant and confident.
Finding ways to make the most of your hair as it changes is always a good idea. Whether your strands have become finer, drier, or curlier with time, there’s always a way to enhance your natural beauty and work with what you have. If you’re ready for a fresh, modern look over 40, here are seven hairstyles to ditch because they can look and feel aging.
Struggling With Sleep? This Rechargeable Sound Machine Is A Total Game-Changer
1. Long Heavy Hair
Extra-long, weighty hair can drag your features down and make your face appear longer and less lifted, especially as hair naturally loses volume with age. The lack of movement can also highlight thinning or dryness at the ends. To refresh your look, try trimming a few inches and adding soft, face-framing layers to restore shape and volume.
2. Chunky Highlights
Thick, stripe-like highlights can look harsh and dated, drawing attention to uneven tones instead of enhancing your natural color. Modern color techniques like balayage or baby lights create a more seamless, sun-kissed effect that brightens your face and adds youthful softness.
3. Super Short With No Texture
A very short cut without any layering or texture can appear severe. Adding a bit of texture or a softly tousled finish helps the hair look fuller and more playful — giving your style movement and approachability.
4. An Overly Layered Feathered Cut
While layers can be flattering, too many feathery or choppy layers can look outdated and overly “styled.” This kind of cut often lacks structure, making hair appear thinner. A better option is subtle, blended layers that add shape and body and still look modern.
5. Heavy Blunt Bangs
Thick, straight-across bangs can overwhelm your face and create a boxy appearance that hardens your features. Instead, try lighter, wispy bangs or curtain bangs that open up your face and blend effortlessly into the rest of your haircut for a softer, more youthful vibe.
6. Ironed Straight Hair
Poker-straight, overly sleek hair can appear stiff and highlight thinning or breakage, which often comes with aging. Instead of reaching for the flat iron every day, embrace a bit of natural texture or use a round brush to create smooth volume. A little bend or wave brings back life and body.
7. Overly Dark Hair
Going too dark with your hair color as you age can actually highlight fine lines and shadows and create a harsher contrast against your skin. Deep shades that lack dimension can drain warmth from your complexion, making you look more tired than you feel. To soften the effect, ask your stylist for subtle highlights, lowlights, or a warmer tone.
