Do you feel like you’ve grown a little older and a lot wiser, but your hair is exactly the same as it was 30 years ago (and maybe that’s not such a good thing anymore)? If you love the look you’ve always had, consider yourself lucky — you made great hair choices in your past that are rewarding you now. But if you’re ready to freshen up your look and aren’t sure what to do differently or where to start, some simple swaps and tips may be all you need. These are the haircut mistakes women over 40 should never make because they add years to your face.
Not Staying Current
One of the most common hair mistakes that women over 40 make is failing to update their hairstyle, according to Gwenda Harmon, the hair and beauty expert at Power Your Curls. “Just as our clothing choices and makeup styles change as we age, so too should our hair,” Harmon said. “Sticking with the same hairstyle year after year can make us look dated and out of touch. Instead, take some time to experiment with new cuts and colors that will complement your changing appearance. A professional hairstylist can help you choose what style and color can flatter your face shape and hair type, don’t be shy to tell what look you’re going for.”
With this in mind, it’s wise to avoid seriously trendy cuts (like mullets and bowl cuts) that are having a moment in magazine editorials, but are often way too harsh to translate well to the street or office. Sometimes all that’s needed to refresh your cut is a few subtle layers, re-shaping your cut, or curtain bangs to give your look a lift.
Over-Styling Hair
Doing more to your hair — more curls, more hairspray, more sculpted updos — isn’t the best way to look current and fresh. “When we try to camouflage every strand of hair in an effort to achieve a perfect look, we can end up with a style that looks harsh and unnatural,” Harmon said. “Too much hair product can also give our hair a greasy or weighed-down appearance. Instead of overdoing it, focus on creating a few key styling elements that will enhance your natural beauty.”
For thinner hair, for example, that could mean getting a cut that provides movement in the hair. With a great cut, all you have to do at home is add a little mousse or volumizer spray at the roots and either blow-dry it or let it dry naturally to bring out the natural texture in your hair.
Falling For the Long Hair Myth
There’s a myth in our society that longer hair is always more flattering on women — which simply isn’t true. “While long hair can be beautiful, it can also make us look older if it’s not styled correctly,” Harmon said. “Long hair that is unkempt or limp can drag down our features and make us look exhausted. A shorter cut can actually do wonders for mature faces by adding lift and definition. Plus, it’s much easier to manage and style on a daily basis.”
Not Getting Regular Trims
If you love your hair long, more power to you. But never getting a trim is a mistake that can result in split ends, breakage, and an overall more unkempt look.
“When you have straight hair, split ends are more noticeable and can make your hair look unhealthy,” said Lauren Udoh, the Hair Creative Director of WigReports.com. “Get a trim every 6-8 weeks to keep your hair looking its best.”
Not Using The Right Products
This common mistake is especially noticeable if you have curly or wavy hair. “Many women with these hair types use too heavy products that weigh their hair down,” Udoh said. “Instead, look for light-weight products that will help define your curls or waves without weighing them down.”
Another mistake women with curly or wavy hair make? Not getting enough moisture. “These hair types tend to be drier than others, so it’s important to use a deep conditioner at least once a week,” Udoh said. “In addition, don’t forget to use a leave-in conditioner on days when you’re not shampooing.”
When it comes to hair and aging, tou don’t have to get a drastic haircut to keep with the times or look more youthful. A few simple tips (and a quick trim every six to eight weeks) can make the most impact on your look.
