As we get older, our hair naturally changes—just like our skin and body. These hair changes are a natural part of aging, often affecting texture, color, and volume.

If you follow me on my social channels, you may know I recently updated my hairstyle. I cut my hair off and now have a sleek bob. See the Instagram reel now!

You also know I choose to keep my hair natural and silver (I’m writing a blog on this next week). However, I know that not everyone wants to go natural, nor should they! We are all different and to each her own.

I hope you will enjoy this post – it’s all about aging gracefully on your own terms. I’d love for you to tell me in the comments about your hairstyle choices!

This post was written by an expert*: Colette Green/Owner/Colorist/Stylist at Colette Salon and Spa.* Enjoy!

Ask any expert these days and you will be told that your hairstyle can really betray all your efforts of aging gracefully. So, let’s stop splitting hairs and figure out how to avoid hairstyles that age you.

There is an axiom in the beauty industry that hair trends are for women of younger generations, social status, or celebrities. I am here to tell you otherwise.

It was only a matter of time before words like anti-aging and renewal started popping up in regard to hair products and style, as they do with any products and treatments relating to the beauty and health industry. So why not for your hair?

1.  Hair Aging

As we get older, our hair naturally changes—just like our skin and body. Aging hair can show up in many ways, from the first appearance of gray hairs to changes in texture, thinning, and a loss of that youthful shine. Gray hair, or grey hair, is one of the most visible signs of aging, and while it’s a completely natural part of life, it can sometimes make us feel less vibrant. These changes are influenced by genetics, environmental factors, and even the way we care for our hair over the years.

One of the most common hair mistakes is sticking to the same routine or style for decades, which can actually make hair look older than it is. Using harsh shampoos, skipping conditioner, or overusing heat tools like a flat iron can strip hair of its natural moisture and shine, leading to a dull appearance and more breakage. No matter your hair type or natural color, adopting a healthy hair care routine is key to maintaining a youthful appearance. This means choosing gentle shampoo and conditioner, embracing your hair’s natural texture, and being mindful of how you style your hair. Regular trims and thoughtful styling can help keep your hair looking shiny, soft, and full of life—no matter your age.

Hair Health and Thinning

Thinning hair is a concern that many women face as they age, and it can affect both hair density and overall appearance. While genetics and hormonal changes play a big role, factors like stress, diet, and the way we treat our hair can also contribute to thinning. The good news is, there are easy ways to support healthy hair growth and keep your hair looking its best.

Start by choosing hair care products that are gentle and nourishing—look for shampoos and conditioners designed for aging or thinning hair, and avoid harsh chemicals or excessive styling. Limiting the use of heat tools and being gentle when brushing or styling can help prevent unnecessary breakage. Nutrition is also key: a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, especially biotin and vitamin E, can support strong, healthy hair from the inside out.

Don’t underestimate the power of a little self-care, either. Regular scalp massages can boost blood flow to the hair follicles, encouraging hair growth and helping to reduce stress. Treat yourself to a deep conditioning treatment or hair mask once a week to restore moisture and keep your hair looking soft and full. By making these small changes, you can help maintain a healthy head of hair and a youthful appearance, no matter your age.

TREAT YOUR HAIR

There is however a real reason why hair companies are introducing these age-defying products to the market. One common mistake is sticking to the same routine or style for decades, which can age your appearance. I try to convince my clients to break out of the hair ruts we put ourselves in decades ago. Wearing the same hairstyle you wore in your thirties and forties dates you… you don’t do it with your clothes, shoes, or purse… why would you with your hairstyle? Now is the time to find a stylist that can make small changes to create huge differences in our appearances.

Let’s face it we are living longer and torturing our hair like never before.  Combine that with increased environmental changes and chronological aging and you have an epidemic of thirsty, brittle, dated hairstyles.

The good news is that you don’t have to go to extreme measures to score instantly younger-looking strands. What must you do?

HOLD ONTO YOUR LONGER HAIR (IN SOME CASES)

Eventually, some women after 50 will begin to suffer female pattern hair loss causing finer, thinner, and thin hair. Holding onto long hair can be a challenge as women age, especially when thin hair becomes more delicate and requires special care. This could be a genetic or hormonal condition as sparseness begins showing up at the hairline and crown areas; no doubt causing anxiety to every woman who experiences it.

The best way to treat your locks is with love in the hands of an experienced stylist. Not only can they cut and color with the latest hair products and techniques that won’t damage your hair, but an expert will also recommend lifestyle remedies and changes. Such as scalp massages to create blood flow. Also, supplements that are great for your skin, hair, and nails, such as Biotin taken daily.

Lastly, use protein-based products. Protein nourishes the hair shaft and creates stronger hair and can actually bond split ends together to create a shine.

If shiny, smooth hair is your goal, I suggest a protein-based Keratin Treatment that comes in various strengths. This will create the most beautiful manageable hair. It’s a protein-based product treatment that can take away frizz and tame unruly locks. This is a treatment that is done in Salons and can last 2-4 months depending on your hair porosity.

For regular daily use, I highly recommend Kevin Murphy Haircare.

UPDATE YOUR HAIRSTYLE – GET THE RIGHT CUT

Although some think going under the knife can trim years off your appearance, so can a pair of scissors… in the hands of the right stylist!

The best thing you can do to keep a more stylish and youthful appearance is to get the right haircut and keep it current! Oftentimes a hairstyle with soft layers around your face that has the appropriate length, shape, and proportions for your lifestyle will do the trick. Consider adding side-swept bangs to modernize your look and flatter your facial features. It’s also important to take your face shape into account when choosing a new haircut, as the right cut can enhance or soften your unique features. For some women, wearing your hair short can be a flattering, age-appropriate choice that highlights your face shape and gives a fresh look.

Keep it soft and moving by avoiding strong hair sprays that can cause stiffness and dull the shine. Certain cuts can create a softer, more youthful appearance. It is amazing what the right cut can do to keep you looking your age or younger. I recommend keeping it current

Layers can add movement and allow the hair to fall gently around the face, framing it in a flattering way. As hair ages, it gets wispier and thinner on the ends, so keeping it mid-length for style will help keep your ends healthy and moving. Maintaining volume is also key to keeping hair looking youthful and lively. (Honey loves the movement on her new cut!)

KICK UP THE CONTRAST

During the greying process as we age, we lose color pigments. The result is the dulling of the natural color of our hair, which can make it harder to get rid of unwanted dullness and can diminish the vibrancy of your complexion.

During this process, the dulling that occurs weakens the flecks of color in your eyes and steals the clarity in your skin tone, lessening the brightness of your face or the ability to tone down the red tones in the skin. The right hair color can enhance your complexion and help hide signs of aging, such as gray hairs or dark spots, by adding warmth and brightness back to your appearance.

The right hair color can enhance the colors in your face that seem to be dwindling with the years. Choosing a shade that is too dark can accentuate aging features and highlight lines on the face, while lighter shades or adding light tones can be more flattering and brighten your face. This is where the skills of a knowledgeable hair colorist can turn back time! Adding highlights or lowlights, and using highlighting techniques, can make all the difference by adding dimension and brightness. Keeping dimension in your hair color as when it was young is the key factor to having a more natural sophisticated hair color. Having a professional add dimension, shading, and a variety of brighter richer colors—selecting the right shade for your skin tone—just like the young healthy tresses you likely had in the past, can help minimize the appearance of facial lines.

When considering coloring options, permanent color can sometimes create harsh regrowth lines and may not always be the best choice for a softer, more youthful look. Semi-permanent or demi-permanent options can offer a more natural transition and require less maintenance.

So no need to go under the knife for a younger look, just find a stylist and avoid hairstyles that age you. Pairing the right hair color with makeup can further enhance a youthful appearance and help you feel your best.

LOVE YOUR LOOK

Most of all, have fun with it. You don’t have to go with the trends, just do what feels right to you. If you love your hair, you’ll feel great about yourself. That confidence will shine through onto all aspects of your life. Essentially, put some pep into your step. Go for it!