“Straight bangs that are too heavy can close up the face”: these 3 cuts that hairdressers see too often after the age of 50

After the age of 50, certain haircuts age the face far more than the gray hair itself. And yet, these styles come up again and again in salon requests. Hairdressers warn of 3 families of haircuts that accentuate this “granny” effect.

Long, straight hair: the volume trap

The first haircut to age after 50 is long, straight, flat hair. This style is especially problematic on fine hair. Hairdresser Raphaël Perrier explains to Netmums: “Very long, flat hair immediately gives a tired look, caused by the lack of volume.”

On thinning hair, the effect can quickly look sloppy. Damaged ends exacerbate this impression. As a result, the face looks pulled down.

“A length pulls the features down: better to cut a few centimeters and create a soft gradient around the face.”

The short bob and straight fringe: an aging duo

The second family of cuts to avoid is the very straight chin-length bob. This style becomes even more aged with full bangs or very short baby bangs. Ghanima Abdullah considers these elements unflattering on a mature face.

Raphaël Perrier points out that“too heavy a straight fringe can close the face and accentuate forehead wrinkles”. It also highlights wrinkles around the eyes. Experts therefore prefer a slightly longer bob.

• Avoid a very straight chin.
• Choose curtain fringe over full fringe
• Opt for a light brow fringe
• Choose a slightly shaded square
• Add movement to soften features

Shag and layered cuts: too many layers

Third family of “granny” cuts: layered shags and styles with too many layers. This problem particularly affects fine hair. Ghanima Abdullah asserts, “The worst thing if your goal is to look younger is to have too many layers.”

When the gradation is excessive, the strands end up lacking hold. The volume quickly collapses. On a woman over 50, this excess of layers can look more like an ’80s mullet than a modern look.

On the other hand, a subtle, well-placed gradient remains a flattering option. The key is moderation. It’s all about finding the right balance between structure and lightness.

Alternatives recommended by the experts

To escape these “memorizing” cuts, experts recommend the lob. This cut falls somewhere between the square and the long bob. It’s ideal when it’s slightly wavy and cut at collarbone level.

Sweeps and warm highlights around the face brighten the complexion. On the other hand, blonds that are too ashy can turn the complexion gray. The choice of color is as important as the choice of cut.

Maintenance: the key to a rejuvenating look

Beyond the choice of cut, the condition of the hair plays a major role. Raphaël Perrier reminds us, “Whatever cut you choose, healthy, shiny, well-groomed hair will always give you a much younger, fresher look.”

Damaged ends age any style. Similarly, dull hair accentuates the neglected effect. Regular maintenance is therefore the best anti-aging weapon.

Today, women over 50 have many flattering options. Simply avoid these 3 aging cut families. Movement, controlled volume and shine make all the difference.

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