Michelle Reed
Beauty & Style

5 of the best hairstyles to make you look younger

While your skin and wardrobe can add a couple (or more!) years onto your actual age, your hairstyle can be the main culprit for making you look older than you really are.

Certain styles really can add on the years, primarily due to the type of cut or the colour used. If you’ve had the same hairstyle for the past few years, it might be time to switch things up a little and try something new. You may well be amazed at the difference it makes.

The loose up-do

If you’re used to pulling your back quite severely in a tight, overly structured bun, the chances are good that you’re adding years onto your face. A slicked back hairstyle is not only reminiscent of the traditional “schoolmarm” but also pulls on the skin, stretching it unflatteringly. If you’ve got longer locks and like having them off your face, try a looser, more relaxed style. A soft bun in the middle of year head or the nape of your neck is a much softer look while loosening some tendrils around your face, or even trying a side parted style can completely change your look with minimal effort.

The classic bob

If you’ve been holding onto longer lengths for a while, contemplating the chop can be a bit intimidating. Fear not! The modern take on the classic bob is far more “hipster” than “senior”. Gently structured, with a focus on clean lines, a well-cut bob draws attention to your eyes. Ask your hairdresser for an angled cut that starts just below the jaw and gets progressively shorter towards the back. If you’re feeling really game, the addition of a fringe or maybe even a new colour can completely reinvent your look.

Soft layers

In the past, longer lengths after a certain age were considered passé. Fortunately these days, there’s no reason why you can’t sport a do past your shoulders with style and elegance (and without it making you look 10 years older!) The key? Soft, graduated layers. Hair that’s all the one length can look very dated and unless your tresses are in absolutely pristine condition, will show up things like split ends. Having layer cut in softens the whole look while modernizing and flattering your face, neck and eyes.

A fringe

If the last time you sported a fringe was when you were in your 20s, it might be time for a resurgence! A side swept, soft and wispy fringe can take years off your face and completely modernize your look. Ask your hairdresser for a style long enough to be pushed to the side (our of your eyes) and ending somewhere between your eyebrow and cheekbone. Longer fringes tend to be more flattering than shorter ones so bear that in mind when selecting a style.

Embrace volume

Nothing adds years to your hair more than a flat style. Volume, especially at the roots is important for adding lift to your face and softening sharp edges. Whether you’ve got long or short hair, adding a volumising mousse to damp locks before drying, and utilising products like dry shampoo for when things get oily or lackluster, can prevent hair sticking to your scalp and create gentle lift and movement.

Tags:
Beauty & Style, Naomi Cotterill, Hairstyles