After years of sporting the same hairstyle, it's easy to get stuck and feel afraid of making a change. But sometimes even a small change can make a BIG difference. Believe it or not, your hair can age you. The wrong style, cut, or color can actually pile on the years. The best way to trim a decade off your look is by trying a few updates to help give you a radiant, more youthful appearance. Turn back the clock with a few of these simple hair tips. Believe me, you'll look younger in no time!
Readmore ¿Qué más? These 5 skincare tips are the secret to looking younger at any age!
Image via Thinkstock
Get a cut
If you’ve been sporting waist-long strands for years, it might be time to lose some length. Very long hair is a hard style to pull off if you’re over the age of 40. A universally flattering cut hits right at the collarbone. If you have fine, thin hair you want to have layers added that will help build volume. If you have thick hair, ask your stylist to add layers in the front to help frame your face. And remember: If you’re going to go really short, consider the maintenance that might come along with the cut. Going shorter doesn’t necessarily mean you can forgo styling. Short styles like Morena Baccarin's look feminine and modern only when they’re sleek and maintained.
Amp up the shine
Healthy, shiny hair gives an overall impression of being in good health. Use a hydrating shampoo and conditioner daily to keep hair healthy and moisturized. Also, to boost up shine, try an argan oil hair treatment, like Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Moroccan Sleek Oil Treatment ($5).
Try a new color
You may have looked amazing with jet black hair back when you were 25, but that doesn’t mean it’s still going to look good on you at 45. Our complexion changes as we age, many times getting lighter and more translucent. So you want to look for a shade that’s going to make you look vibrant and youthful. Highlights tend to look softer than anything monotone. Ask your stylist what color highlights will complement your skin best, whether it’s something in the blonde, brunette or red family. Make sure to have them framed around your face, as the light-reflecting shine will make your skin look more radiant. Just look at how glowy Jennifer Lopez’s skin looks with honey highlights!
Get bangs
Bangs are a great way to cover up forehead lines–think Botox, but with your hair. Not all bangs are created equal, though. A heavy fringe definitely isn’t for everyone. It can cast shadows over your eyes or emphasize other aging features. Side-swept bangs, like Jessica Alba’s, with layers tend to look good on most people and it will make your face look softer and younger. Make sure your fringe blends in well with your cut.
Get fuller locks
Thin hair can definitely add on the years. Try spraying on a volume-boosting product, like TRESsemme 24 Hour Body Boost Spray ($6) to clean, damp hair before styling.
Upgrade your products
As you start to age, your hair texture starts to change making it necessary to change formulas. Hair gets duller, drier, and coarser, so try switching to moisturizing shampoos and conditioners that will hydrate and rebalance your scalp. Also, do a deep conditioning treatment at least once a week to keep hair silky soft and shiny. Try Kérastase Age Premium Hair Mask ($60).
