5 Hair Styles Women Over 40 Should Avoid if They Don’t Want to Look a Decade Older

11 September, 2024

A woman with a hairstyle that flatters her features

Choosing the wrong hairstyle, on the other hand, can make women look much older.

The following are five “aging” hairstyles that many women fall victim to. Take a look and choose a style that will make you look youthful and beautiful!

1. Short Tomboy Hair

Short hair is one of the most popular styles among women over 40 for its dynamism and character. However, the tomboy short cut is an exception that most women should avoid as it enlarges the face and makes it look coarse.

A woman with a short tomboy haircut

The extreme shortness of this hairstyle will expose the wrinkles on your neck.

Additionally, this style is a “big no-no” for women with either very short or very long necks. An unbalanced neck will stand out, making your overall appearance comical.

A woman with a short haircut that flatters her features

Instead, consider a shoulder-length cut.

2. Thick Bangs

While bangs are praised for their ability to make one look younger, choosing the wrong thickness can turn them into a weakness. Extremely thick bangs can make your face look coarse and awkward, as if you’re wearing a fake hairpiece.

A woman with thick bangs

Opt for bangs with moderate thickness that expose your forehead.

3. Curly Hair with Small Curls

Small curls can make your hair appear fuller and your face smaller. However, they can also have the opposite effect, aging you by a decade. Additionally, small curls are prone to tangling and are difficult to manage, making your face look messy and unkempt.

A woman with small curls

Instead, try a gentle wavy style for a graceful and compact look.

4. Short Pixie Cut

This dynamic and distinctive style is popular among women. For those with small faces and delicate features, it’s a perfect match as it accentuates these traits. Conversely, for women with larger faces and rounder features, this cut can be a nightmare, as it may seem like they have no hair at all.

A woman with a short pixie cut

Women with coarse, round, or large features should avoid this short pixie cut.

5. Outrageous Hair Colors

In your twenties, bold and vibrant colors like orange, yellow, green, and purple showcase your personality, youth, and dynamism. However, after turning 40, these outrageous colors become a “don’t.” Changes in skin tone can make your complexion look darker, and your face will appear older than your hair color suggests.

A woman with colorful hair

Instead, opt for neutral, safe, and skin-complementing colors like dark brown, auburn, or chestnut.

These are the five hairstyles that middle-aged women should avoid if they don’t want to look older. Don’t hesitate to bookmark this page so you can always look youthful and fabulous!

Frequently asked questions

The right hairstyle can make a woman over 40 look younger and more sophisticated. Avoiding outdated or age-enhancing styles can help to ensure a woman’s overall appearance remains modern and flattering.

Women over 40 should avoid extremely long hair as it can drag their face down and make them look older. They should also be cautious of overly short hair, heavy bangs, and excessive layers, as these can be harsh and emphasize wrinkles.

It is recommended that women over 40 opt for a shoulder-length cut with soft layers, which can frame the face and create a youthful appearance. Side-swept bangs can also soften features and draw attention to the eyes. Regular trims are important to maintain a healthy, modern look.

Yes, the ‘mom bob’ is a hairstyle that can age a woman significantly. It is a one-length, jaw-skimming bob that can be harsh and unflattering, especially if it is paired with heavy bangs. This style is best avoided by women who want to look youthful and modern.

It is important to consider face shape when choosing a hairstyle. For example, women with round faces should avoid heavy, blunt cuts that can emphasize fullness. Instead, they should opt for styles with height and volume at the crown to elongate their face. Oval faces are the most versatile and can pull off a range of styles, but it is still important to avoid outdated looks.