Not all hairstyles are created equal – some make you look younger, others make you look older than a bad night's sleep. Learn about the 8 most common hairdressing sins and cross them off your list without mercy!
Hairstyles that make you look older?! Hair They can work wonders. They are a crown you wear every day, so it's worth thinking carefully about what message you're sending with them. Hairstyle It can seemingly erase years off your face, or it can add years to your face, like a bad Instagram filter. With a few simple changes, you can say goodbye to your outdated hairstyle and live a more youthful life. Here are 8 common hair styling mistakes that can make you look older—and how to avoid them.
But if at the end of this article you realize that you really were doing all the wrong things at once – don’t panic. You can still apply to the Guinness Book of World Records for “the fastest aging hairstyle.” Jokes aside, let’s see what you can do.
1. Hair in too dark tones – “The Morticia Adams Look”
While dark hair can have an air of mystery and elegance, too intense shades can subtly accentuate every wrinkle and imperfection in your skin. A study by American hairdressing network Paul Mitchell even says that very dark hair often visually narrows the face and creates too much sharpness.
What do experts advise?
Instead, choose shades that are no more than two to three shades darker than your natural color. Softer chocolate or espresso shades can subtly enhance your complexion and create a natural glow that will distract from the first signs of aging.
2. Cool Blonde Shades – “The Ice Queen of Narnia”
Redken experts note that cool blonde shades often accentuate under-eye shadows, blemishes, and pale complexions. These colors look great under studio lights and filters, but in everyday reality, they add years.
A better choice?
Warm blonde, honey or sandy shades that will give your face a more vibrant glow and a healthy and fresh color harmony with your skin.
3. Overly fixed hairstyle – “Concrete bunker”
American hairstylist Sally Hershberger warns that excessive use of hairspray or gel makes hair stiff, dry, and lacks movement - everything we associate with aging.
What to do instead?
Less is more. Instead, use lightweight styling sprays or creams that provide soft hold and a subtle shine. Let your hair breathe and move naturally – like you would on a beach vacation.
4. Hair strictly combed back – “On the way to the principal”
Hair slicked back tightly exposes the forehead and accentuates every fine line. Celebrity hairstylist Chris Appleton says that hairstyles like this often give the impression of austere, even tired, appearance.
Your alternative?
Leave a few soft strands around your face, opting for a relaxed style with waves that create softer lines and conceal what you'd like to hide.
What can you do?
You don't need a drastic cut. Instead, consider subtle layers, a stepped shape, or gentle waves that will bring back life, volume, and ease. And if you're still feeling insecure, add a good volumizer—an instant facelift!
6. The same color through the decades – “Hairdressing Groundhog Day”
Spanish celebrity stylist Moncho Moreno warns that skin changes with age, so even a color that was gorgeous in your 20s may no longer be flattering in your 40s or 50s.
The solution is simple:
Renew your color regularly, experiment, and talk to your stylist about small changes – you can add subtle highlights, a balayage technique, or lighter ends.
7. Cleopatra-style straight bangs – “Strict geometry”
Perfectly straight bangs are like mathematically precise eyebrows – they only really suit a few. Vogue hairstylist George Northwood points out that a straight line accentuates wrinkles, facial asymmetry and harsh lines.
It is better to opt for:
A softer, more vibrant bang that is more playful and gently covers minor imperfections.
8. Hairstyles from previous decades – “Retro from the museum”
If you're stuck in the past with a look you wore in high school, hair guru Ted Gibson warns that it's time to update. Avoid voluminous perms or "Rachel from Friends" styles unless you're going to a retro-themed party.
Modernize your look:
Find a hairdresser who keeps up with the latest trends, and don't be afraid to try something new. Your hair – and the people around you – will thank you.
Conclusion: A hairstyle is not just a hairstyle, it's your identity card!
Remember, dear ladies (and gentlemen!), that your hairstyle is not just a routine, but an expression of your personality. Try out changes, refresh your style and you will look younger and more confident.
And don't worry - if you've been doing everything wrong so far, it doesn't mean you've missed the train. Hairdressers are incredibly good at solving styling disasters - it's their job, after all!
Have you made any of these mistakes? Write below in the comments and share your hairdressing anecdote! Your story might brighten the day of someone else who also needs a new haircut!
