Hair often acts as a visual cue to one’s age, sometimes revealing more than anticipated. It’s not merely the premature grays that can tell the story. The way hair is cut or styled can unwittingly enhance the signs of aging. Remaining loyal to a particular hairstyle for an extended period might, unknowingly, accentuate fewer flattering elements of aging—fine lines, sagging skin, and more. Discover the 12 hairstyles that experts warn could be adding years to your appearance.
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12 Hairstyles That Make You Look Older
1. Tight and Structured Hairdos:
According to Soe Kabbabe, style expert and senior editor for All Things Hair, overly structured styles like tight ringlet curls or stiff chignons and buns can swiftly age one’s look.
2. Blunt, Short Cuts:
While short hair is currently in vogue, certain styles, like blunt, one-length bobs or puffy, round cuts, might age you, especially with thicker hair textures.
3. Excessively Long Hair:
Dull, lifeless lengthy locks can, ironically, age your appearance. Kabbabe suggests opting for layered alternatives to add vitality and movement.
4. Thick, Blunt Bangs:
One-length, thick bangs can add undue “weight” to your face, potentially contributing to an older appearance.
5. Thin, Short Bangs:
Similarly, wispy bangs might emphasize thin hair, so choosing bangs that complement your natural hair texture is crucial.
6. Flat Hair:
Thin hairstyles can amplify signs of hair loss as one ages. To counter this, Kabbabe suggests using thickening products for volume and depth.
7. Teased Hair:
The outdated practice of teasing hair might contribute to an older look. Instead, opt for modern products and tools to achieve volume.
8. Unsuitable Wispy Layers:
Avoid outdated, wispy layers that might detract from a youthful appearance; opt for thicker, face-framing layers instead.
9. Air-Dried Styles:
While beachy waves might seem carefree and fun, these air-dried textures might make hair look unkempt and dry as one ages, advises George Papanikolas, a celebrity colorist and Matrix brand ambassador.
10. Overly Dark Hair:
According to Elizabeth Kosich, founder of Elizabeth Kosich Styling, extremely dark hair colors can create harsh contrasts, drawing attention to fine lines, wrinkles, sun spots, and uneven pigmentation.
11. Extremely Light Hair:
Kabbabe warns against overly highlighted or bleached hair that may not complement one’s skin tone, suggesting a cautious approach to lighter shades.
12. Hair Damage:
Irrespective of hair color, maintaining hair health is essential. Kabbabe emphasizes the significance of nourishing the scalp and hair texture to maintain a youthful appearance.
It’s vital to remember that hair condition is as crucial as the chosen style. Prioritizing hair health could significantly contribute to a more youthful appearance.
