Why Do Older Women Have Short Hair?

It’s a valid question! For generations upon generations, older women have been depicted almost exclusively with short styles. Whether it’s a well-kept pixie or a super short bob, women 65+, and sometimes even younger, are shown with short, cropped styles that we’ve come to associate with aging. The question remains…why is this? Today, we’re talking through some of the main reasons older women have short hair and why it’s a trend you definitely don’t have to follow.

Hair Changes

As we age, our hair can change in texture, color, and thickness. Hair produces less melanin, so color pigmentation lessens and more grays pop up. Texture can change completely, leaving hair drier and frizzier than previous years. And of course, the growth cycle slows down, so hair becomes less thick and full. Short hair is an easy fix for hiding these signs of aging, making hair appear fuller. A short cut and a little hair dye can go a long way!

Skin Changes

While modern skincare and treatments have advanced tremendously, gravity is still a factor as we age. As our skin produces less collagen and elastin, it begins to sag. When our faces droop, they appear longer. A short haircut or even adding short layers to the hair can help create lift and volume to offset this effect, accentuating the bone structure and taking away from the overall longer look.

Maintenance

This one is pretty basic – short hair is easy! Whether you apply a styling product, use a heat styling tool, or just go all-natural, having less hair just makes the entire process that much easier to deal with. Additionally, as we age, hair is more prone to breakage and dryness, so you won’t have to deal with frazzled ends or excess frizz.

Confidence

At Calista, we’re all about this last piece! Confidence is key no matter what you do with your hair. The cut that’s right for you is the cut that makes you feel your best. If you love your long locks and take pride in maintaining a lengthy ‘do as you age, more power to you! There is no rule book and there are no official decrees on what we can or can’t do with our hair as we age. Cut it, keep it, grow it, dye it, leave it. The most important thing about getting older is that you always do whatever makes you feel brave about your own beauty, or as we call it, BeautyBrave!