As women, we all know that hairstyles play a major role in our physical appearance!
Every few years, hairstyles come into fashion and then go out as quickly as they came.
Although some women put a high priority on keeping their style up-to-date, some prefer to find a hairdo that they are comfortable with – maintaining the exact same style for decades. We all know the lady with the Farrah Fawcett chop, the “80’s poof”, or the bold streaky highlights.
Each of these styles was iconic in their day, but their fashion statement no longer exists (at least not yet).
In addition to outdated hairstyles, there are several other hair mistakes that can add a few years to your appearance!
Regardless of your age, face shape, or style preference, these tips will help you avoid common mistakes and keep you looking youthful!
1.) Keeping your hair too long
Although long hair can signify youth and vitality when you are young, it can imply the opposite as you grow older.
Chances are that your long locks are not thick, healthy, well-maintained, and voluminous. You may find yourself constantly putting it into a ponytail, braid, or other updo to manage the length.
By doing so, you are dragging your hair down and creating the anti-face lift effect.
Many ladies go by the rule is “Don’t let your hair go below your bra strap.”
Once your hair grows beyond that area (also the general area of my ribs), it can make you look older. (not always, but often!)
We recommend not letting your hair grow longer than the middle of your back. This length still falls into the “long hair” category!
If you love your super long hair, you can cut off a few inches and still stay in the “long hair” category. Don’t be scared to try a new hairdo!
You will be pleasantly surprised at how many more style options a shorter haircut can provide, not to mention the shorter drying time.
2.) Never changing your look
Do you find yourself always doing the exact same hairstyle every day (perhaps for years)?
It may be quick and easy, but it isn’t helping your style-game. Styles evolve quickly and your hairdo may be dating your appearance by a decade or two.
Like everything else, hairdressing evolves quickly. It is important for your appearance to allow your hairstyle to change.
It doesn’t have to be a drastic transformation, but don’t be scared to change things up a bit! It may be as simple as learning how to style your bangs differently or curling your hair a different direction.
When it comes to styling your hair, there are thousands of YouTube videos and Pinterest boards dedicated to teaching you the latest trends and the easiest ways to create a stylish hairdo.
3.) Parting your hair the wrong way
Parting your hair in the middle is a current trend!
But not everyone looks A+ with this style! In some cases, it can add a few pounds to your face.
Regardless of where you part your hair, you can either draw a straight line or create a soft irregular part.
4.) Always keeping your hair dark
If you are in the “middle age” of life, you may also find that you hair may thin due to fluctuating hormones.
Hold back on the jet-black hair and lighten things up!
Choose a color that is a few shades lighter – perhaps a creamier chocolate.
Don’t just balayage the tips, dye the whole head of hair!
This can help to create an appearance of fuller hair, preventing the scalp from being the main attraction.
5.) Slicked-down hairstyles
Have you seen those hairstyles that some of the runway models wear?
Their hair is slicked back into buns and ponytails – and they rock it!
However, chances are that you do not have the same youthful, long, thin face shape as the runway model.
Slicking back your hair draws attention to your face – and any wrinkles or imperfections that are present.
As you age, you should attempt to style your hair in a way that frames your face and creates an equal balance of hair and skin.
This will help to draw attention to your head, as opposed to the features on your face.
6.) Always staying blonde
Have you heard the saying, “Blondes have more fun”?
Well, this isn’t always the case – especially if their hair color is washing out their complexion!
Keeping your hair bleach blonde can make it look like you are disconnected with your age and unable to accept that you need to evolve with time.
This doesn’t mean that you need to make a drastic change.
Have some fun and create a bit of contrast. Adding some deep caramel lowlights can produce a beautiful variation in your hair, creating a healthier glow on your face.
7.) Opting for an extreme cut/color
When looking for a hairstyle change, don’t choose an extremely bold cut or color.
This is very similar to suddenly wearing bold eye makeup or completely different clothes.
When choosing a completely different hairstyle, look through photos of celebrities your age. Remember to choose a person with hair that is similar to yours because your hairdresser can’t perform a miracle!
8.) Not knowing your face shape
Many women go through life never knowing that their face shape should be taken into consideration when choosing a hairstyle.
For instance, most round faces do not look good with bangs. Square faces look amazing with a middle part. Oval faces look best with a deep side part.
There are 6 different face shapes – diamond, heart, oval, rectangular, round and square.
As they age, many women possess this false belief that they must have “hair height” to maintain a youthful appearance.
FALSE! Teasing your hair can actually make you look older.
Instead, opt for a haircut with flattering layers. Using volumizing shampoo will help to create subtle volume and create a modern and elegant look – without damaging your hair.
10.) Bangs
This hairstyle tip can go either way!
Bangs are a fantastic way to get out of a hairstyle rut!
However, they have the ability to make you look younger or older. First of all, know your face shape.
Heart-shaped faces look great with razored, side-swept bangs, while oval faces can usually handle full bangs.
Before trying bangs, always test them out!
You can create bangs by pulling some hair from the font and pinning them down onto your forehead.
Or, you can do my favorite option and buy some fake bangs.
11.) Lacking confidence
Have you ever seen someone with a hairstyle and thought, “Oh she looks fantastic!
But then you told yourself that you could never pull that one off.” Why not? You never know unless you try it!
If you love a certain hairstyle, then try it out!
The best part about hair is that it grows back and the color can be changed.
Take a risk and try a new hairstyle – it can actually boost your confidence.
Your hairstyle is your greatest accessory! Do some research and talk to your stylist about a hairstyle change.
Have fun and switch things up once in a while!