Avoid These 12 Hairstyles That Make You Look Older

While finding a hairstyle varies from person to person, some hairstyles may look unflattering to most. According to celebrity hairstylist Brad Mondo and many other online sources, these hairstyles can make you look aged. Even though these hairstyles were popular at one point in time, they seem outdated now. Therefore, avoid getting these hairstyles to keep looking youthful and trendy.

Tight Curls

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Tight curls have a long historical reference. They were very popular in ancient Egypt and Greece. However, the style soon started losing popularity in the 20th century. The hairstyle can seem excessive for a grown-up as it is associated with doll-like features. Therefore, looser curls or waves will look more natural than a uniform tight, curled hairdo.

Teasing Hair

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Backcombing sections of hair do teasing to create height. The style became a popular styling technique in the mid-20th century and peaked in the 1980s. It was a signature element of many iconic hairstyles of that era. However, teasing too much can make someone appear older than they are. Additionally, the process can damage hair by causing breakage. If you need volume, you can achieve that with various other techniques like extensions and blowouts. These look more natural and youthful.

Extreme Volume

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Like teasing, extreme volume was a prominent feature in hairstyles throughout the 20th century. Hence, similar to teasing, these big puffy hairdos can also look outdated or old. Instead, you can opt for a more balanced volume through layered haircuts and blowouts. These won’t overwhelm the face and will go well with modern attire.

A-Line Bob

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The A-line bob is a timeless cut with origins dating back to the early 1900s. It gained immense popularity in the 1920s when flappers embraced shorter, more manageable styles. Although the A-line bob is a classic hairstyle, the sharp angular cuts may appear too polished.

Blunt Fringe

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A blunt fringe, also known as blunt bangs, is a hairstyle where the hair is cut straight across the forehead. While it can be a striking look, a blunt fringe can sometimes make the face appear shorter. Hence, it might draw attention to any wrinkles around the eyes. If you’re concerned about looking older, consider softer, side-swept bangs that frame the face and add a touch of youthful movement. Brad also suggests going with wispy and textured fringes to break the monotony.

Face-Framing Layers Styled Inwards

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Layers that frame the face and curve inwards can look nice on some people. However, if these layers are too short or cut too straight, they might make your jawline stand out more. This could give your face a sharper, older look. To keep a youthful appearance, try longer layers that gently shape around your face. These layers can soften the look of your jawline and make your hair flow better. Brad Mondo suggests that adding a slight wave or turning the ends of your hair outward can also help you look younger. This style adds a bit of fun and movement to your hair.

Tight Waves

Tight waves are smaller, defined waves that add texture and volume to the hair. While waves are classic and timeless, tight waves can sometimes create a slightly “dated” look, more so if they resemble styles popular in the past. Opting for looser, more relaxed waves creates a more modern and youthful appearance. You can achieve this by using a larger barreled curling iron, letting the hair dry naturally, and scrunching it with a styling product for added texture.

Bob Styled Inwards

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A bob styled inwards involves cutting the hair to a blunt line around the chin or jawline and tucking the ends inwards. This style can be chic, but the blunt line and inward direction can sometimes make the face look wider and potentially highlight wrinkles around the jaw. Consider a textured cut with softer edges to create a more youthful look with a bob. Styling the ends with a slight wave or outward flick can add movement and a more modern touch.

Tight Updo

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A tight updo, where the hair is pulled back and secured firmly in a bun or chignon, creates a neat and polished look. However, the sleekness of a tight updo can sometimes make the face appear longer and draw attention to any aging spots like wrinkles or frown lines. Consider doing a high, messy bun with face-framing curtain bangs for a more youthful approach. This adds a touch of softness and allows for some movement, creating a more balanced and youthful appearance.

Droopy Ponytail

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A droopy ponytail, where the hair is simply gathered low at the back of the head and hangs limply, can appear unintentionally relaxed or even messy. This can sometimes be perceived as less polished and potentially make someone look older. To elevate a ponytail for a more youthful look, try a higher placement on the head or add some volume to the crown. You can also achieve a more polished look by securing the ponytail with a sleek hair tie and wrapping a section of hair around the band to conceal it. Brad suggests you can look more youthful by wearing a high-ponytail with no loose pieces.

Side Part

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A side part is a classic hairstyle where the hair is divided unevenly on one side of the head. While a side part can be very flattering, a clean part with straight lines can emphasize an angular jawline or a long face shape. Consider a softer, more relaxed part line to create a more youthful look with a side part. You can also add texture to the hair with waves or curls for a more modern and youthful appearance. If you already have an angular face with sharp features, Brad suggests avoiding the side part and going with a middle part instead.

Extremely Short Layers

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Layers are a great way to add volume to thin hair; however, adding too many short layers with thin ends can make it look aged. Besides, overlaying makes the hair even thinner. Layering should always start from the bottom to avoid making the bottoms too thin and short.

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