“Be gentle with your curls”: what celebrity hairdressers advise after 50

In 2026, curly hair remains at the heart of hair trends, especially for women over 50. Curls offer a multitude of styling possibilities without compromising on volume and shape. However, over time, hair evolves and requires special attention.

Why curly hair changes with age

Celebrity hairstylist Clayton Hawkins explains that over the years, curls become drier and more fragile. They can also become less dense, and their texture can change. It is therefore necessary to adapt your hair routine to preserve the health of your curls.

According to Clayton Hawkins, hydration and softness are paramount. He recommends being gentle with your curls on a daily basis. On the other hand, age is no barrier to bold styling.

Celebrity hairstylist and Shark Global brand ambassador Naeemah LaFond agrees. For her, age is not a determining factor in choosing a hairstyle. What counts is the impression you want to make when you walk into a room.

“Currently, there is a clear trend towards sophisticated yet relaxed cuts.”

Mid-lengths and squares: sure-fire values

Clayton Hawkins finds that most of her customers over 50 no longer ask for a very short cut. They want a hairstyle they feel in tune with. As a result, layered, shoulder-length cuts are in high demand.

Naeemah LaFond adds that soft, structured squares, arriving at the collarbones, are the ideal cut for natural curls. This length preserves movement while elegantly framing the face. The curly bob therefore remains a very popular option.

• The wavy mid-length cut with curtain fringe
• The clavicle curl
• Long, wavy locks around the face
• The curly shaggy cut
• The rounded curly cut

Techniques to enhance curly hair after 50

Face-framing strands add movement to curls. Naeemah LaFond’s advice is to imagine longer curls with a well thought-out gradation to structure the hair. In this way, the face gains softness and luminosity.

For styling, Clayton Hawkins recommends DevaCurl products, especially the long-lasting, cardboard-free styling gel. This type of product helps preserve the shape and health of curls on a daily basis. At the same time, a moisturizing mask like Dove Amino Curl Repair 10-in-1 can work wonders.

When customers opt for a short cut, the shaggy cut is among the most popular. Clayton Hawkins explains that her customers are looking for textured curls, like a soft pixie cut. However, the impression of softness is always sought after.

According to Naeemah LaFond, rounded cuts enhance rather than minimize curl density. She recommends Pattern Beauty Curl gel for strong definition while retaining a soft-touch feel. The aim is for curly hair to always be on the move.

Volume and finishing: tips from the professionals

For extra volume, Naeemah LaFond recommends lifting hair at the roots. The Air Styler Shark FlexStyle hair dryer provides precise control without distorting curls. Application is quick and intuitive, according to the expert.

The tapered cut is also an option for opening up the face and giving it a more lifted look. On the other hand, lightly brushed curls offer a truly chic look, according to Clayton Hawkins. This technique is reminiscent of blow-drying, while preserving the natural texture.

Open-air drying: a strong trend in 2026

Air-dried curls are seducing many women this year. Clayton Hawkins always favors highlighting natural movement over constraint. He loves the texture of naturally dried curly hair.

Naeemah LaFond stresses the importance of using products wisely. She recommends Olaplex No.6 smoothing care for optimal hydration and frizz control. For her, hydration, strength and suppleness are the three pillars of beautiful hair.

Hair should be soft to the touch, not stick straight,” she concludes. This philosophy guides many women in their daily hair routine. From now on, natural curls will be a beauty asset at any age.

• curly hair