The widespread belief that aging necessitates short hair is a beauty myth that deserves debunking. According to stylists, maintaining long hair after 50 is entirely feasible, provided certain considerations are acknowledged and managed effectively.
“As we age, hair tends to become more fragile and susceptible to breakage,” explains stylist Michelle-Nichole Jones. “Women over 50 might contend with hair loss or thinning due to hormonal shifts or certain medications.” Nevertheless, proper hair care can mitigate breakage, minimize hair loss, and promote the strength and vitality of your strands.
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10 Ways to Embrace Keeping Long Hair After 50
Want to retain your long, flowing locks into your 50s and beyond? Incorporating a few extra measures into your hair care routine can make all the difference. Here are tips from professional hairstylists on maintaining beautiful, lustrous, and healthy long hair during and after your 50s:
1. Choose Face-Framing Layers
Maintaining long hair after 50 involves ensuring it looks intentional and styled. Face-framing layers are an ideal method to achieve this. These layers help maintain a flattering appearance around your face, creating the illusion of a tighter skin contour, as suggested by L.A.-based celebrity hairstylist Cody Renegar.
2. Experiment with a Lob
A “lob,” or long bob, is a deliberate and manageable hairstyle, as noted by Cindy Marcus, a professional hairstylist in Las Vegas. Its versatility makes it easy to style without requiring excessive effort.
3. Consider Curtain Bangs
Curtain bangs are a lighter option that complements long hair. They can be styled in various ways and add elegance to your overall appearance, according to Nikki Corzine, owner of The Canyon Salon. Additionally, their low-maintenance nature allows longer intervals between trims.
4. Prioritize Regular Trims
With age, hair becomes drier, thinner, and less dense. Therefore, frequent trims are crucial for proper hair care. Regular trims, ideally every six to eight weeks, are recommended by stylist Cody Renegar to prevent split ends and ensure silkier locks.
5. Alternate Between Protein and Moisturizing Shampoos
Choosing the right shampoo and conditioner contributes significantly to maintaining healthy hair. Alternating between protein-rich and moisturizing shampoos and conditioners is suggested by Renegar. This approach helps retain moisture and protein, ensuring shiny, strong, and elastic hair.
6. Include Deep Conditioning Treatments
Committing to long hair after 50 means committing to its proper care and styling. Good hair care products are essential, suggests hairstylist Cindy Marcus. Investing in volumizing, hydrating, or curl-boosting products enhances your style and overall appearance.
7. Invest in Strengthening Products
Hair and beauty expert Joel Warren recommends strengthening products, particularly beneficial for fragile gray hair. Ingredients like biotin, keratin, or collagen in these products help nourish and fortify hair.
8. Opt for Protective Hairstyles
Protective hairstyles like braids or buns are suggested by stylist Biancone to minimize daily wear and tear on your hair. However, avoid excessively tight hairstyles to prevent scalp tension and potential hair loss.
9. Consider Hair Extensions
For those desiring long locks despite hair thinning, hair extensions can be a viable solution. Your hairstylist can guide you on the appropriate type of extensions, such as clip-on or tape-on extensions, based on your preferences and needs.
10. Nourish from Within
The impact of diet on hair health cannot be overlooked. Including biotin, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins E and A in your diet can support hair strength and shine, suggests Susie Geda, a salon owner and master stylist. Styling products infused with these vitamins can also be beneficial.
