Finding the perfect haircut that suits your facial features can be a challenge, especially when you’re trying to adapt to new styles as you age.
With concerns about frown lines, thinning hair, or receding hairlines as they age, many women can find it difficult to know how to adjust their hair to “put some youth back into their looks.”
But thankfully, top UK hairstylists have outlined the best ways to ensure your hairstyle doesn’t age you.
From framing your face with fringes to avoiding solid colors and only tucking one side of your hair behind your ears at a time, experts told FEMAIL the best ways to “anti-age” your haircut.
Thankfully, top UK hairstylists have shared the best ways you can ensure your hairstyle doesn’t age you. Shown, an example of a youthful hairstyle
KEEP THE FRINGES SOFT AND ANGLED
Stylist Tom Smith said: “As we age, the natural fat deposits in our face begin to slack, creating a squarer face shape that can make the jawline appear heavier.
“While fringes can be an attractive choice to camouflage forehead wrinkles, a horizontal block fringe adds to the square appearance of the face, while softly curved and textured bangs can embrace the edges of the corners of the face and look far more flattering.” ‘
Tyler Moore, veteran stylist at Live True London, echoed this point, saying, “Adding bangs can be a great way to soften the face and highlight the cheekbones.
“We don’t recommend fuller bangs unless you have a high forehead as it can cover up the face and draw attention to imperfections, but side-swept bangs can be a good option for most.”
AVOID PLAIN COLORS
“One of the most common changes I make on those seeking a more youthful hairstyle (pictured) is adding inserts of a deeper color that are hidden in the body of the hair,” Tom said
“One of the most common changes I make on those looking for a more youthful hairstyle is adding areas of a deeper color that are hidden in the body of the hair,” Tom said.
GO FOR LOOSE WAVES
Tyler said, “Loose waves are the perfect style to add some youth to your look. Avoid straight hair as this can be aging as it will accentuate any thinning.
“Sleek straight hair can be harder to wear on a mature face,” Tom reiterated. “Instead, embrace any natural curls or waves you might have to exude a carefree and youthful energy.”
Tyler said, “Loose waves (pictured) are the perfect style to add some youth to your look. Avoid straight hair as this can be aging as it will accentuate any thinning.
“Since hair is naturally gray it can be tempting to go lighter and lighter to lessen the contrast towards the roots – this works really well, but be sure to keep some ‘shadows’ off the crown of the head to avoid that.” hair looks alive and dynamic.”
Tyler agreed that solid colors should be avoided, adding, “If you’re looking for an anti-aging color option, we recommend a muted coin highlight to draw attention to the face.”
“This can be subtle or bright, but by creating light around the face, it brightens the complexion and makes you appear more youthful.”
DO NOT STICK TO FRAZZLED ENDS
Tom insisted: “I don’t think one hairstyle is ‘banned’ for all ages – wear what makes you feel great!
“However, if you’re desperate to keep your hair long but your hair is thinning and extensions aren’t an option, trimming thin ends will dramatically increase the appearance of fullness and actually make you look a lot better.”
“Bob length haircuts are a great option for looking younger,” Tyler explained. “If you have thinning hair, keep it at one length for maximum body, and if you have thicker hair, opt for some long layers to add movement and dimension.
TICK ONLY ONE SIDE OF YOUR HAIR BEHIND YOUR EARS AT ANY TIME
Stylist Tom said: “If you’d rather side-part your hair or keep your hair out of your face, try to discipline yourself to only tuck one side behind your ear.
“In the case of a side parting, it also helps to tuck the narrower side behind your ear (to pull it together and lift your cheekbone) to create a more heart-shaped face — which is known to be at its most youthful.”
“Tucking both sides of your hair behind your ear can look harsh and a little too utilitarian. Instead, opt for asymmetry and softer layers that frame the face.”
ADD LAYERS
Milk + Blush hair expert Nicole Petty said: “While one-piece hair can look chic on some people, it can be difficult to pull off and can end up aging you. To add volume and movement to thinning hair, ask your stylist to add feathery, subtle layers to your hair and a few face-framing layers (pictured).
Milk + Blush hair expert Nicole Petty said: “While one-piece hair can look chic on some people, it can be difficult to pull off and can end up aging you.
USE MOISTURIZING HAIR PRODUCTS
Nicole said: “As you get older, your hair slowly gets drier, coarser and thinner. That’s because as hair follicles get smaller, sebum production decreases — which means the scalp produces fewer natural oils that keep hair moisturized.
“If you’re noticing big changes in the texture of your hair, you may need to change up your hair care routine.
“Incorporate more moisturizing products like oils and hair masks into your routine to keep frizz at bay, visibly soften hair and maintain hair health.
“You may also want to use a shine product to restore shine to your tresses.”
“To add volume and movement to thinning hair, ask your stylist to add feathery, subtle layers to your hair and a few face-framing layers.
“Adding face-framing layers helps accentuate your best features and can create the illusion of more defined cheekbones.
However, don’t fall into the trap of wearing layers too short, especially if you have short hair, as it can look quite dated and make you look older.
Tyler added, “If you prefer to wear your hair long, add some long layers to add movement to the hair.
“Long hair that’s all one length can pull down facial features and make you look older, but cutting your hair into a more styled look can have a more youthful effect.”
GO FOR ASYMMETRICAL HAIRCUTS
Nicole explained, “Consider asymmetrical if your hair is better suited to short or medium length cuts.
“Asymmetric or lopsided haircuts exude a youthful glow as they correct the shape of the face and smooth out any sharp angles or lines that make you look older.
“Worn by the likes of Reese Witherspoon and Cameron Diaz, they’re good for adding a touch of flair to your look while still being relatively easy to care for.
“Just visit your barber every 5-6 weeks to keep the shape and fresh look.
“Plus, the styling possibilities are endless. Simply style the look with a deep side parting to add instant bounce and fullness to thinning hair.
“How you shape it from here is entirely up to you. You can accentuate the bluntness of the cut with a straight and sleek hairstyle, add inverted waves for fullness, or add Hollywood waves or accessories to one side for a super glam look.
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