Q. I’m 72, but don’t look it. I have little if any gray hair. It was blonde but I’ve been highlighting it the last few years and it has turned a darker brown. Should I continue with one shade of blonde highlights or go to two? Also, it has grown out. I need bangs but should I go for a short cut? I was told woman over 40 should not wear longer hair.
A. Since your hair is a bit darker these days, I would stay away from an overly blonde, highlighted look. Highlights are great because they mute or camouflage gray while boosting shine and luster, but keeping them to within two or three shades of your base or all over color is usually best. I recommend keeping with the highlights you’re doing and adding an all over shine treatment—like Cellophanes or a clear demi-color. The older we get, the less light-reflecting our hair becomes so boosting shine lends hair a younger and fresher appearance. As for your cut, I’m not a fan of “rules” that suggest women of a certain age must have hair of a certain length. If your hair is kept in good condition (with regular trims to keep ends even and thick and shine to improve its look), you should wear it in whatever way makes you look and feel beautiful. If you are ready for a different style, a shoulder blade-skimming cut (or shorter) with long layers and bangs will enhance your facial features—a good thing at any age.
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6 Comments at "Ask a Stylist: Cut, Color and Age"
Hi I’m looking for a new look for this summer.
I have long, brown hair with about 5 new grey hairs which of course i like to hide. 28, turning 29 in september. My hair is bountiful, voluminous and rebellious. Not quite the curliest nor the straightest, waves with a life of their own. I’d say its not mistreated but I haven’t been to the hair salon in a while.
I Would like to keep it long and about the same shade of brown (maybe just a tad lighter) and would like to add highlights (the sun shimmer add you have online caught my attention).
My complexion is light, i have a round face with chinese traits which makes Face-Slimming important.
I will be going to the Caribbean where there is a lot of humidity, so therefore i’d like a cut that is of easy maintenance but fresh, up-to date and not at all lame.. at the same time.
I guess that sums it up. Any ideas?
Oh also, if you can give me an estimate of how much it would cost, I’d appreciate it. I can email a pic so you can have a better idea as well.
Thanks!
I beleive I have color build up. I have been coloring my hair for years (mostly at home color). The color fades within two weeks to where I have that dreadful copper halo. Perhaps due to the fact I was my hair every day. I need your advice.
hi i was wanted to buy clip in extensions and i was wondering if you knew if i take it into a salon they would cut them and style them how i would like it??
my dads funeral is thurs morning and i am desperate for a new haircut and color—would u have an appt for me like tomorrow or wed
let me know
hi im 21 mi natural color is brown and you think a color like sunset is good for me i like this type of red and what cut is good for me my eyes are dark brown and my skin color is withe a litlle bit tan than you
hi! i just wanted to ask if what is the best haircut , color, appropriate in my age. im just 19 . my skin color is tan. and my height is just 5’5″.
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