The 3 versatile hairstyles that ‘take years off your appearance’

There’s no way to stop common symptoms of ageing, but there are a few tweaks women can make to age more gracefully.

Colouring grey hair and investing in age-defying skincare remedies are the two most people opt for, but it can be as simple as getting a haircut, as many hair and beauty experts would agree.

Marie Nieuwodt, group education manager at Cloud Nine Group, is one of them. She told Express.co.uk: “After 40, our face shape naturally starts to change, so the secret is to choose hairstyles that enhance and lift rather than drag the face down.

“In particular, focus on styles that create an uplifting effect around the cheekbone area. The right cut and a flattering colour can easily take years off your appearance.”

As for what to ask your stylist for in the salon, Marie suggested three popular styles known for their flattering effects.

She said: “A mid-length bob or a long pixie with texture and layers can work wonders, adding volume and movement to your hair. A versatile, layered bob that can be styled in multiple ways is a perfect example of a timeless, youthful look.”

Marie suggests that women should ask for a ‘New Decade’ hair style and colour consultation that considers changes in hair density and growth speed, skin tone, and slight changes in face shape and lifestyle.

It’s not just the hairstyle that complements an ageing complexion but also the colour.

The Cloud Nine education manager explained that the right shades can “add warmth and vibrancy” as we age and our skin loses melanin. Think dusty, warm rose golds, toasted ginger blondes, deep amber coppers, and rich walnut browns—these tones reflect warmth onto the skin, giving it a healthy glow.

To find the right shade, take note of your complexion’s undertones. “For those with pink or rosy complexions, cooler tones can balance out redness,” Marie said.

She continued: “Bombshell blondes, praline highlights, cool coffee tones, or even a dark midnight blue can beautifully harmonise with the skin.”

Several celebrities showcase how the right hairstyle and colour can beautifully flatter ageing complexions. Take Emma Stone’s warm-toned bob with rose gold highlights. Marie suggests this is a great example of how a shorter style can complement fair skin.

With her warm blonde tones, Kate Moss demonstrates how blonde can add softness and vibrancy. 

And for those who prefer darker shades, Mila Kunis’ rich brown locks are the perfect example of a colour that adds depth and glow.

Marie elaborated: “Each new decade brings a perfect opportunity for a style reinvention. Wanting to look younger is all about feeling younger. How the hair feels to the touch is the key to looking younger with hair; healthy, shiny hair radiates youth.”

That said, it’s important to style at the right temperature for your hair type and choose styling tools that are good for your hair to avoid heat damage and drag. 

The hair expert suggests taking the Cloud Nine Temperature Calculator quiz online to find the best styling temperature.