Beauty

4 Hairstyles That Are Unflattering for Most Face Shapes and Can Age You by a Decade—Even for the Most Beautiful of Women

Styling long hair incorrectly can easily make women look older and less attractive.

1 September, 2024

While long hair is often associated with femininity and softness, it can also add years to your look if not styled right. Here are 4 long hair trends that can make you look older and how to avoid them:

Your hairstyle can greatly impact your overall appearance.

1. Jet Black Straight Hair

Straight, jet-black hair is a classic look that exudes simplicity and elegance. However, this style may not be the most flattering for those with thin hair as it tends to cling to the scalp, emphasizing any lack of volume.

Jet black straight hair can be a elegant and classic choice.

If you have thin hair, consider adding some layers or opting for a different style altogether. A center part with subtle waves, for example, can create the illusion of fuller hair. Additionally, pay attention to your face shape and features when considering this style. A strong jawline, high forehead, and defined cheekbones can help balance out the heaviness of straight, jet-black hair.

Straight, jet-black hair can emphasize the lack of volume in thin hair.

2. Tight Perm

A tight perm can be a fun and playful look, but it can also age you if not done right. Tight curls can be unflattering for those with thick hair, as they can make your head look disproportionately large.

Tight curls can be overwhelming for those with thick hair.

If you have thick hair and are considering a perm, opt for larger, looser curls. This will give your hair a softer, more romantic look while still adding texture and volume. For those with thinner hair, a tight perm can be a great way to add body and movement to your locks, just be sure to use a heat protectant and a hydrating hair mask to minimize damage.

If you have poor hair quality, it’s best to avoid any chemical treatments as they can further damage your hair.

Loosely curled hair is a more modern and flattering option.

3. Hime Cut

The Hime cut, popularized by Japanese actress Li Yi Tong, is a bold and dramatic style. However, it requires a lot of hair to pull off. If you have thin or fine hair, the Hime cut will only emphasize that. Additionally, this style demands sharp and defined facial features to balance out the heavy fringe.

The Hime cut requires a significant amount of hair and sharp facial features to pull off.

Don’t be fooled by the flattering Instagram photos; in real life, this style can make you look tired and aged if not paired with the right makeup look. If you’re set on trying the Hime cut, consider getting a wig to test out the style before making the chop.

A thin face and fine hair can make the Hime cut less flattering.

4. Half-Up, Half-Down Hairstyle

The half-up, half-down hairstyle is a classic, but it can give off “mom” vibes if not styled right. First, if you have a flat head, especially at the back, this style will only emphasize that. Second, thin hair will only look limp and lifeless when half-tied.

A flat head and thin hair can make the half-up, half-down style less flattering.

To make this style work, go for a higher half-updo instead of a low one. This will create the illusion of volume and give your face a lift. Whether you have thin or thick hair, this style can add bounce and frame your face in a flattering way.

A high half-up, half-down hairstyle adds volume and a youthful touch.

Frequently asked questions

There are a few hairstyles that can unfortunately add years to your appearance, and may not suit most face shapes. These include the ‘bowl cut’, a severe center-parted style, overly-long hair, and a short, choppy pixie cut.

The bowl cut can give an impression of a rounder face, and its harsh, straight lines can emphasize any wrinkles or imperfections, making one look older. This style can also make your head look disproportionately small, especially if you have a longer face shape.

A severe center part can emphasize the width of a round face, and for those with a heart-shaped face, it can make the forehead appear even smaller, throwing off the balance of your features. It can also give the impression of a ‘peak’ on the top of your head, which is not a flattering look for most.

While long hair can be beautiful, if it’s too long, it can drag your features down, making them appear longer and more drawn. This can emphasize the signs of aging and make you look older than you are.

Not necessarily, but a choppy, messy pixie cut can be hard to style and may not frame your face in a flattering way. It can also emphasize the jawline, which may not be desirable if you’re trying to soften your features.