What hair mistakes make you look older?

Answered by Tom Adger

As we age, our hair goes through various changes, and it’s important to adjust our hair care routine accordingly to maintain a youthful look. There are several hair mistakes that can make us appear older than we actually are. Let’s explore these mistakes and how to avoid them:

1. Letting Your Hair Get Too Long: While long hair can be beautiful at any age, excessively long hair can weigh down your face and make you appear older. As we age, our hair often becomes thinner, so keeping it shorter can create the illusion of fuller, more voluminous hair. Consider opting for a shoulder-length or shorter hairstyle to frame your face and give it a more youthful appearance.

2. Going Too Dark: As we age, our skin tone tends to lighten, so going too dark with your hair color can create a stark contrast and highlight signs of aging, such as wrinkles and fine lines. Instead, opt for softer, more natural-looking shades that complement your skin tone. Adding highlights or lowlights can also add depth and dimension to your hair, giving it a more youthful appearance.

3. Going Too Light: On the other hand, going too light with your hair color can also be aging, especially if it washes out your complexion. Platinum blonde or very light shades can make your skin look pale and dull. It’s best to choose a hair color that enhances your skin tone and adds warmth to your overall look.

4. Using Too Many Products: While hair products can be beneficial for styling and maintaining the health of your hair, using too many can weigh it down and make it look limp and lifeless. Avoid overloading your hair with excessive amounts of styling products, as this can make your hair appear heavy and lackluster. Instead, opt for lightweight, volumizing products that add body and movement to your hair.

5. Ignoring Damage: Over time, our hair can become damaged due to factors such as heat styling, chemical treatments, and environmental factors. Ignoring this damage can make your hair look dry, brittle, and older. Regular trims and deep conditioning treatments can help keep your hair healthy and vibrant. Additionally, using heat protectant sprays and minimizing the use of hot tools can prevent further damage and maintain the youthful appearance of your hair.

6. Not Embracing Gray: Many people start to notice gray hair as they age, and some may feel the need to immediately cover it up. However, embracing your natural gray hair can actually be a stylish and youthful choice. There are many beautiful gray and silver hair colors that can enhance your features and make a bold statement. If you’re not ready to fully embrace the gray, consider adding highlights or lowlights to blend the gray strands with your natural hair color for a more gradual transition.

Avoiding these hair mistakes can help you age gracefully and maintain a youthful appearance. Remember to choose hairstyles and colors that flatter your skin tone, avoid excessive use of products, take care of any hair damage, and embrace your natural gray hair if you choose to do so. With a little care and attention, your hair can continue to be a beautiful asset at any age.