The Best Haircuts for Women Over 50 That Create Volume and Thickness

Thin hair, which refers to lower density of strands rather than the actual texture and diameter of the hair, is perfectly common and natural. Often, it’s influenced by hormone-related shedding or pure genetics, but the way in which the hair growth cycle naturally slows as we age is equally relevant. Those bouncy ponytails and bombshell waves seen on your favorite celebrities? They are most likely due to some clever use of hair extensions.

As hair thickness is also affected by your health, it’s important to seek professional help from your GP or a trichologist if you’re noticing more hair fall than usual. They can offer useful advice to navigate and improve hair growth.

Once in the clear, there are plenty of hairstyles and cuts that create the illusion of volume and fullness in thinner hair types. For anyone seeking a strategic but elegant style for the new season, we went straight to those in the know to learn the best haircuts for thin, older hair.

What are the common styling issues for thin hair?

According to Kirsten Finnigan, hairstylist at Hari’s Salon, Notting Hill, thin hair tends to appear flat and lacking in volume, in which case she recommends using a root-lifting spray and blow-drying it upside down. Lightweight texturizing hairsprays will also add hold if you find that your hairstyle doesn’t last.

If you’re experiencing limp or “stringy” ends, Finnigan suggests getting regular trims and adding in subtle layers for movement. “For scalps that show through, try hair fibers or gently back-comb to help with coverage,” says Finnigan, who’s also a fan of keeping dry shampoo in your arsenal as thinner hair tends to get greasy quicker.

Marcos Duran Alvis, hairstylist at Hari’s Salon, Northcote Road, adds: “Thin hair can sometimes be prone to frizz, especially in humidity. Anti-frizz products and heat protectors will help to keep a better style.” And do go easy on the hair; the last thing you need is to lose more strands, so always brush gently and avoid tugging at it.

Light layers

“If the hair is straight, add layers for movement, use dry shampoo for texture and avoid heavy products,” says Finnigan. For curls and waves, scrunch with a mousse and use a diffuser to add volume. “Avoid thick creams that weigh hair down,” she shares. When heat styling, do use a heat protector to prevent damage and breakage.

There is no universal formula as every hair is different, but generally, opt for delicate layers around your face. The cut shouldn’t remove the bulk of your locks, but rather, add extra body as hair can appear thinnest around the front.

Sharp edges

Next to soft layers, short haircuts with weighty ends around the front will also disguise wispier locks. “Blunt bobs and cuts are an excellent option for thinning hair. They create the illusion of dimension, texture, and thickness by making ends appear fuller,” shares Finnigan. “Alternatively, you can try pixies, shaggy chops, and textured cuts for something a bit bolder.”

Hard parting

A dramatic side part can create the illusion of height and volume. Mist a small amount of volumizing spray and use a rat-tail comb to define the parting.

Invisible Layers

Although many women instinctively opt for a shorter cut when approaching midlife, Nicole Kidman and Sandra Bullock make a compelling case for longer lengths. Incorporating “halo layers”—strategically placed around the crown—creates an airy silhouette that frames the face while maintaining fullness throughout the ends.

Those with thin hair can benefit from the added texture and dimension that grants a fuller-looking finish. Celebrity hairstylist Naomi Brooks previously told ELLE that this style is ideal for those with “long hair who want to retain length but desire movement and lots of volume.”

Go gentle

Afro hair requires an extra gentle touch. “Always protect and be delicate as it can be quite fragile when heat styling. If you can do heatless styling, that’s my best advice,” says Miffy Goknil, senior stylist at Hari’s Salon King’s Road.

“Use gentle heat where possible and when doing silk presses don’t overpass the same section on the hair. If the ends are fragile, use lower heat.

“If braiding, don’t use too much tension as you don’t want to create traction alopecia. Regular, deep conditioning treatments [such as a hair mask] are key.”