Hairstyles with bangs aren’t going away anytime soon, and they shouldn’t. When cut and styled correctly, a perfect fringe can add mystery and intrigue to your look, as well as make you feel more fresh and modern.
But we’re so used to hearing experts say, “Get bangs to look more youthful!” that we don’t think about how not all bangs styles are created equal. Before you rush to the salon and ask for “bangs” with no further explanation, listen to these hair experts who say these four bangs’ haircut mistakes can actually add years to your appearance.
Outgrown Bangs
Both of these suggestions are in the same category: regular salon maintenance is a good idea, especially if you plan to wear bangs. Even if you spend 10 minutes in your stylist’s chair getting your bangs re-shaped, a style with bangs, as this Juliette Lewis look, will necessitate more salon visits.
And if you color your hair and wear bangs, keep in mind that a too-dark color or shade that doesn’t complement your skin tone, especially when it’s displayed so close to your face, can make you look tired and washed out.
Consult with your stylist about a bangs style and hair color that suits your lifestyle and that you believe you can maintain over time. Bangs can look amazing and instantly refresh your look — but the key is to choose a bangs style that highlights your features and complements your personality and style.
Blunt Bob With Bangs
The blunt bob is a classic that will add a lot of drama to your look, as seen on Bella Hadid, but if you’re looking for a more modern look, it might not be the way to go. “A blunt bob with bangs can look less youthful because the straight lines of the cut can make the face appear more angular and mature,” Krysta Biancone, co-founder of Amari Salon & Spa and Hair Stylist at Hair by Krysta, said.
“A wavy/curly long bob (or ‘lob’) with long side-swept bangs is an alternative haircut that looks fresher and more youthful.” This look features softer lines that shape the face while still framing it in a youthful manner.
Thick Curtain Bangs
Curtain bangs, which are longer on the sides, expose the entire forehead (including any lines or wrinkles) and draw attention to the area above and between your brows, according to Lisa Abbey, the founder, and CEO of Strength x Beauty and a professional hairstylist for over 35 years. “This is fine when you’re younger, but once those elevens start to settle in, you probably don’t want to emphasize them,” Abbey explained. “In addition, as you age, this style usually includes a middle part, which is less flattering than an off-center or side part.”
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Instead of thick curtain bangs, Abbey suggests a face-framing fringe or slightly side-swept bangs like Zooey Deschanel to soften the cut and highlight your cheekbones and eyes, rather than the center of your forehead. “If you absolutely must try the curtain bangs trend, ask your stylist to create a fine fringe at the hairline (underneath the curtain bangs) to soften the look and fill in above the brows,” Abbey recommended.
Ultra-Short Baby Bangs
One piece of advice you’ll hear more frequently as you get older is that short hair equals younger-looking skin. While it’s always a good idea to get regular trims and avoid overly long hair that can droop your features, too-short hair, including too-short bangs, can be aging. “While chopping off your hair may feel liberating, it can make you look older than you are,” said Anudipa, the content head and editor of Awe. Hair. “Hair that is too short can appear severe and can make you appear to be trying too hard to look younger.” Stick to a softer, mid-length style that is a few inches shorter than the length of your neck.”
