A salon visit offers a perfect opportunity to refresh your look, but choosing a flattering hairstyle can be daunting, especially when addressing concerns like thinning hair and the desire to avoid looking older. While classic styles can be appealing, certain cuts may inadvertently age you. To help navigate these choices, we consulted top hairstylists for their insights on seven outdated hairstyles to avoid and the best alternatives for a more youthful appearance.
1. Skip Chin-Length Bobs with Blunt Bangs
Chin-length bobs paired with blunt bangs can emphasize signs of aging rather than enhance your features. “Blunt bangs can highlight lines around the eyes and make the chin and jaw area look more pronounced,” explains Ghanima Abdullah, hair expert and cosmetologist at The Right Hairstyles. This style may lack the necessary volume to frame your face effectively.
Instead, Try a Bob or Lob with Curtain Bangs
Curtain bangs, which frame the face and soften the overall look, are a versatile choice. “Curtain bangs flatter nearly every face shape and shift attention away from signs of aging,” Abdullah says. They provide a youthful and elegant framing that complements various hair lengths.
2. Skip Blunt Bobs with Center Parts
A bob with a center part might draw attention to thinning hair or forehead wrinkles. “A middle part can accentuate thinning areas and create a flat appearance,” notes Abdullah. It may also make hair seem less voluminous.
Instead, Try a Layered Bob with a Deep Side Part
A side part can add volume and create a more dynamic look. “Side parts and layered bobs help create movement and fullness,” Abdullah advises. This approach can make thinning areas less noticeable and add a fresh, youthful vibe.
3. Skip Choppy Shags
While shaggy cuts are trendy, excessive layering can make hair appear even thinner and limp. “Too many layers can lead to a lifeless appearance,” says Abdullah. The layered shag might not provide the desired fullness and could highlight hair thinning.
Instead, Try a Wispy Shag with Delicate Layers
Opt for a shag with subtle layers that add texture without overwhelming your hair. “A wispy shag with light layers enhances volume and maintains a youthful look,” Abdullah suggests. This style provides a balanced approach to layering, keeping hair full and vibrant.
4. Skip Bobs with Baby Bangs
Baby bangs, which end just above the eyebrows, can draw attention to forehead wrinkles and sagging skin. “This style might accentuate aging signs rather than create a youthful appearance,” notes Dani Everson, professional hairstylist and owner of Clementine’s Salon.
Instead, Opt for Eyebrow-Length Fringe
Eyebrow-length bangs or curtain bangs offer a more flattering look. “These styles can be tailored to your preferences, providing a youthful lift while hiding forehead imperfections,” Everson explains. They frame the face in a way that enhances rather than detracts from your features.
5. Skip Pin-Straight Long Hair
Long, straight hair can appear flat and draw attention to thinning or damaged strands. “Long, straight hair may make features look drawn and tired,” says Janine Jarman, celebrity hairstylist and founder of Curl Cult.
Instead, Try Face-Framing Layers
Face-framing layers and side bangs add movement and dimension to long hair. “These elements create a more youthful appearance by drawing attention to your facial features,” advises Gina Rivera, celebrity hairstylist and founder of Phenix Salon Suites. Layers help avoid the appearance of flat, lifeless hair.
6. Skip Mid-Length Bobs
Mid-length bobs that fall at the neck can highlight fine lines and wrinkles. “This length often draws attention to the neck area, which may reveal signs of aging,” explains Abdullah.
Instead, Try a Collarbone-Length, Layered Bob or Lob
A bob or lob that ends at the collarbone or chin can be more flattering. “This length shifts focus to the chin or shoulders, providing a more youthful look,” Abdullah suggests. Layered cuts at these lengths add movement and frame the face beautifully.
7. Skip One-Length Bobs
One-length bobs can appear dull and lack volume, making them less flattering as you age. “A straight-across bob can look flat and emphasize signs of aging,” notes Lauren Udoh, hair stylist and creative director of WigReports.
Instead, Try a Bob or Lob with Face-Framing Layers
Incorporate layers and side parts to add volume and texture. “Face-framing layers and side parts create a more dynamic, youthful appearance,” Udoh advises. These adjustments enhance the overall look and provide a fresh update.
By avoiding these outdated hairstyles and opting for the suggested alternatives, you can achieve a look that enhances your natural beauty and keeps you feeling confident and vibrant.