I’m a hairdresser & there’s four style mistakes that are making you look 15 years older – here’s how to shave years off
MANY of us fork out hundreds if not thousands on pricey skincare each year in a bid to turn back the clock.
However, according to Ghanima Abdullah, stylist and beauty consultant at The Right Hairstyles, we could just be missing the point...
Instead, the hair expert has told how people often make the same mistake when it comes to their hair - and it could just be making them look “10 or 15 years” older.
1. Not looking after long hair
Ghanima explains that much to contrary belief, shorter hairstyles are much more flattering on the face and can help to knock years off - even if you're embracing the grey.
She notes how people fail to realise that long hair can often look flat and have dead ends, which can result in frizziness and a dull appearance.
If you like your locks to be straight, start at mid-length with your flat iron as it will keep some of the volume
Ghanima Abdullah
So, if you've hit the point where your hair has started thinning, Ghanima, who spoke to The Express, recommends keeping it "between should and ear length" - adding that this will make your locks look "fuller and more youthful."
READ MORE ON HAIR
2. Not taming frizz
Hands up if you face the daily battle of trying to tame your frizzy locks...well, it turns out you're not alone.
Ghanima explains that oestrogen levels decrease as women get older which can result in a noticeable difference in hair becoming finer, making it more susceptible to frizz.
To solve the issue without sacrificing volume, the hair stylist recommends opting for lightweight products.
She advises trying a leave-in conditioner to help leave your locks smooth and shiny without adding any unwanted weight, or adding a few drops of jojoba oil to the ends after a blow dry.
3. Styling out body
People commonly use heated tools such as curlers or straighteners to achieve their desired hair style, but Ghanima warns that such gadgets can result in flat roots and thinner-looking hair.
“If you like your locks to be straight, start at mid-length with your flat iron as it will keep some of the volume," she says.
"When you iron the roots, your hair might look too flat, and therefore older."
When using straighteners, Ghanima recommends lifting your hair from the root in an upwards motion rather than down, as this can help to offer a fuller appearance.
3 tips to age backwards
You can't really get younger but you can try your best to look younger.
Use sun protection
The most common cause of an ageing face is sun exposure and sun damage.
Using SPF daily is the most effective way to keep the skin looking young and care for ageing skin.
Ditch dramatic makeup
Opt for brown eyeliners and mascaras instead of black, swap matte bronzers, blushers and face powders for creamy products, and make your face glow with shimmery bronzes, pinks and gold eyeshadows.
Dress for your body shape
Many women tend to hide behind baggy, shapeless clothes as they get older.
But the secret to looking young and trendy, is to embrace the body shape you have.
Midi skirts are all the rage at the moment, offering suitable coverage for anyone who doesn’t want to show too much leg or knee. And pleated midi skirts are great if you’re looking for a versatile day to night piece.
Blazers never go out of fashion, and can instantly elevate any outfit. Just make sure the blazer length hits you at the right point.
Jeans have had a revival and there are so many different styles on the high street for you to try. If in doubt, opt for a mid-blue colour and a trusty black.
4. Colouring roots
Many women reach for the hair dye at the first sight of grey, but according to Ghanima, this is something that should be avoided.
Why? Well, according to the hair whizz, dyes or bleach can cause damage to the scalp, which can result in hair thinning.
To prevent this from occurring, she strongly advises getting any form of chemical treatments done by a professional at a salon rather than a DIY job yourself.