A fresh color on your hair can make a world of difference. Just like a haircut impacts your face shape, the color can amplify your look too. But, the wrong color can conversely have just as much of an effect. Knowing which hair color is right for you can be overwhelming—besides that, committing to a hair color can require extra time in the salon chair, and more money invested in touch ups.
If you pick the wrong hair color, it could also age you. Keeping in mind not only what matches your face shape, but also what will make you look younger and amplify your natural beauty, is a useful resource as you head into a hair appointment. We asked expert stylists what colors they recommend for women over 40 that will make them look younger, and what colors may not be the most flattering.
It’s important to note that fun hair colors that you love and make you feel good should never be limited by age. What’s more important is the strategy with which you use the color, and the way you use shades and dimension. “Solid single color dye jobs can add years we don’t need. If you look at natural untouched hair color on youth, it is never solid and flat,” Says Julie Jaczkowski, a hairstylist at Modesty Hair Studio and Fresh Starts Registry Expert, “Blondes, brunettes and even punchy purples can be age appropriate when done right. No matter the color, hair that is highlighted, and dimensional emulates younger fresh hair." The next time you pay a visit to your hairstylist, ask for highlights so that you can get that dimensional, natural look of naturally youthful hair.
When it comes to colors you should try out, this really depends on your skin tone, but there are a few that generally give a youthful look. “A color that makes you look younger is black, red, or blonde. They are colors that are always in trend and make you look more youthful,” Says Shantise Michelle, celebrity hairstylist who specializes in Cranial Prosthesis, “Conversely, a hair color that ages you is any shade of brown. Depending on your skin tone it can wash you out.”
In conclusion, it’s all about strategy. The most unflattering thing you can do with your hair is style it in a way that doesn’t make you feel your best. Don’t be afraid to try hairstyles that seem fun to you—just consult with your stylist about the best route to getting there that will give you the most bang for your buck. If you don’t have a hairstyle in mind and are unsure where to start, consider colors like black, red, and blonde, as timeless but trendy looks. Just be sure and ask for something that gives you lots of dimension, as opposed to one solid color all over. Talk with your hairstylist before you commit to any major change, as they will be able to tell you what will work best for your face shape and complexion.
