should i be going lighter as i get older?
credit: getty images
Firstly I want to say that ageing is a wonderful thing. This article is about the link between going lighter as we get older and why it works for most people. It’s one of those things we feel like so many people assume they have to do, or are told by their stylist to do, but have no idea why they are doing it. I decided to write this article as I notice a flurry of A-listers who are noticeably going lighter as they age. Angelina Jolie has made the shift recently and that got me wondering why we do it…
Follow your body and its lead
This step is simple but effective. Look at what your hair is doing as you age and use that as vague guideline when it comes to colour. If your hair has gone 70%-100% grey, that will be significantly lighter then what you had before and I am a firm believer that your body adapts to work with that it is giving you. If you over all base is getting lighter, you skin tone will adapt to this to compliment the changes of shade. This is why I see people who were dark their whole lives then turn grey and embrace blonde and it looks incredible on them. Once you’ve noticed grey is the strongest colour over all in your hair, go to your stylist and start everything from the top. Have a brand new colour consultation working with newer lighter shades, see what tones are working for you and look at other people for inspiration. If you are in a rut, trust your stylist. There is a reason they are the professionals and they are here to make you feel and look your best always!
Soften the regrowth
If you do colour your hair, chances are it’s not long before the greys are sparkling through. Going lighter helps to blend the regrowth and will give you longer in between touch ups, which is great for your time and bank account. When you’re on your lighter journey ask your stylist the best way to achieve the results you want. A great way to soften regrowth and start blending the greys is with super fine highlights. This will diffuse the colour and lighten the hair making room for the grey to come through less noticeably.
Do what feels right
There is no right or wrong answer when you ask ‘should I go lighter as I get older’. If you darken your hair and it takes you back to being super hot at 25 then by all means keep on doing what your doing. I also really want to point out I am SO against the rule that someone (probably a man) created, that when women get to a certain age they have to cut their hair off. I actually think cutting your hair off can age you, as long as you look after your hair health you can do whatever you want. It’s your hair, always remember that.