Changing your hair color on a whim isn’t always as easy and whimsical at 50 as it is at 18. You may have been able to swing from one shade to the next each time a new trend arose, but aging gracefully means knowing what looks best on you and embracing change. One area you may have overlooked is your hair color. If you cover your grays, you probably already know the benefits of going lighter rather than darker. As it turns out, those advantages extend to your highlights. Adding a few streaks to uplift your color can have a youthful effect if done correctly. The last thing you’d want is for your highlights to age you.
“Hair color should complement your skin tone and evolve with it over time, not fight against it,” says celebrity hairstylist Millie Morales. When you’re ready to color your hair, it’s a good idea understand tthe ins and outs of highlighting mature hair. Below, we chatted with three experts about what to know about highlights as you age, including the best placement and shades for a radiant and youthful appearance.
Featured experts
Can highlights age you?
When it comes to highlighting your hair, it’s important to think about the big picture. Highlights add dimension and depth if thoughtfully placed throughout the hair. However, if the tone and placement are off, they can bring the wrong kind of attention. According to celebrity colorist Min Kim, overly ashy or cool tones can cast shadows and emphasize fine lines, while high-contrast patterns can harshen facial features. Morales adds that colors that are too bright or have chunky streaks can also draw attention to skin discoloration or wash out your complexion. “The goal should be to achieve tonal harmony with strategic placement, complementing your skin tone and enhancing its natural radiance,” says Kim.
What colors are best for mature hair?
“Warm tones like honey, caramel, golden beige or soft copper work well for mature hair because they add a glow and softness to the skin,” says Morales. However, if you prefer cooler tones, the experts note that finding a shade tailored to your features will be key to achieving a youthful color. Morales suggests looking for a neutral ash or champagne blond and cautions against settling for anything too icy or grayish. Of course, a shiny coat can enhance the dimension and give the hair a healthy look. “Adding a gloss gives the hair a vibrant glow and can extend the hair between salon visits,” says celebrity hairstylist Vanessa Ocando.
What to ask for at the salon
Finding the perfect balance of shades requires a skilled eye. Before you sit in anyone’s chair to have your hair colored, you should feel comfortable with their skill set. “Look for a colorist who understands the color theory of hair and how different shades will wear on your hair type,” says Ocando. Kim recommends asking your stylist for soft, face-framing highlights. “Phrases like sun-kissed dimension, lived-in brightness, or natural glow are great conversation starters to avoid overly heavy or stripey placement,” says Kim. Requesting a blendable style over a statement look is also important. “Natural-looking highlights that frame my face will add warmth without too much contrast and lift your features, not overpower them,” adds Morales.
Expert-approved products for maintaining highlights
