Do bangs look good on a 70 year old woman? Your definitive guide to chic fringe

As hair naturally changes with age, the question of revamping your hairstyle with a new cut is common. We address this, helping you decide: do bangs look good on a 70 year old woman? The answer is a resounding yes, with the right approach and style chosen for your unique features and hair texture.

Quick Summary

Bangs can be incredibly flattering for women over 70, provided the right style is chosen to complement face shape and hair texture, especially as hair thins or becomes drier. Soft, wispy, or side-swept fringes are often more rejuvenating than heavy, blunt cuts, which can sometimes weigh down mature features.

Key Points

• The Right Style Matters: Soft, wispy, side-swept, and curtain bangs are most flattering for women over 70, as they beautifully frame the face without weighing down features.

• Avoid Harsh Cuts: Heavy, blunt bangs and micro bangs are generally less suitable, as they can draw attention to fine lines and create a severe appearance.

• Consider Hair Texture Changes: As hair becomes finer with age, wispy bangs can create the illusion of more volume, while textured bangs work well with natural curls and waves.

• Maintenance is Key: Keep bangs looking their best with regular trims and by using moisturizing hair products to combat age-related dryness.

• Boost Your Confidence: A great hairstyle is one that makes you feel good. Don't be afraid to experiment with a new look, as bangs can be a chic and stylish addition at any age.

• Experiment Safely: If you're unsure, try clip-in bangs first to test out different styles before committing to a permanent cut.

The Case for Chic Bangs at Any Age

For many women, getting bangs is a fun, impactful way to refresh their look without a drastic cut. In your 70s, a well-selected fringe can do more than just update your style; it can beautifully frame your face, draw attention to your eyes, and add a touch of playful sophistication. The key is moving away from youthful fads and embracing classic, elegant, and modern styles that work with—not against—your changing hair texture and facial features.

Why Bangs Can Be So Flattering for Older Women

As we age, hair often becomes finer and drier, and the skin on our forehead may show more fine lines. Bangs offer a strategic and stylish solution to these common changes.

• Soften Facial Features: A soft, feathered, or side-swept fringe can elegantly soften the angles of your face, creating a more youthful and harmonious appearance.
• Frame the Eyes: By drawing attention upward, bangs can highlight your eyes, creating a central focal point that is often very flattering.
• Disguise Imperfections: A fringe can gently camouflage fine lines or wrinkles on the forehead without the need for makeup, offering a non-invasive "lift".
• Add Volume: For women experiencing hair thinning, a well-cut bang can create the illusion of thicker hair, especially when paired with a layered cut.

Best Bangs Styles for Women Over 70

Not all bangs are created equal, and for women with mature features, some styles are far more flattering and manageable than others.

Wispy Bangs

Wispy bangs are light, airy, and feathery, allowing some forehead to show through. They create a soft, delicate frame for the face and are excellent for those with fine or thinning hair, as they don't look sparse.

Side-Swept Bangs

One of the most universally flattering choices, side-swept bangs gracefully sweep across the forehead. They work for nearly every face shape and add a soft, elegant movement to any hairstyle, from a pixie cut to a shoulder-length bob.

Curtain Bangs

Curtain bangs part in the middle, sweeping to either side of the face like curtains. This style is effortlessly chic and can make the face appear longer and more symmetrical. They are also relatively low-maintenance, as they grow out beautifully and don't require frequent trims.

Textured Bangs

For those with natural waves or curls, embracing textured bangs is a great option. Instead of fighting your hair's natural pattern, a skilled stylist can create a fringe that works with your texture, leading to a stylish and low-fuss look. A dry cut is often recommended for curly hair to ensure the fringe falls correctly.

Bangs to Approach with Caution

While many bangs are wonderful, some are best avoided on more mature faces. The key is to steer clear of styles that can appear harsh, dated, or unflattering on aging hair and skin.

• Heavy, Blunt Bangs: These can weigh down your features and emphasize fine lines rather than soften them. A straight, heavy fringe can create a severe line that can be less forgiving than a softer style.
• Micro Bangs (Baby Bangs): Extremely short, mid-forehead bangs can sometimes emphasize a maturing forehead and are generally better suited for younger faces or those with a very high-fashion, edgy aesthetic.

Comparison Table: Flattering vs. Unflattering Bangs

Feature	Flattering Bangs	Unflattering Bangs
Style	Wispy, side-swept, curtain, textured	Blunt, micro, heavy
Effect	Softens features, frames eyes, youthful lift	Can emphasize fine lines, weighs down face
Maintenance	Low to moderate, grows out gracefully	High, requires frequent trimming to maintain shape
Works Best With	Fine, thinning, wavy, or curly hair	Thick, heavy hair texture (may not work well with thinning hair)
Ideal For	Most face shapes	Often too harsh for mature features

Maintaining Your Bangs at 70

Proper care and maintenance are crucial to keeping your bangs looking fabulous. Here are a few tips:

1. Use Quality Products: Invest in a moisturizing and smoothing shampoo and conditioner to combat dryness and frizz.
2. Protect from Heat: If you use heat styling tools, always use a heat protectant spray to minimize damage.
3. Regular Trims: Schedule regular bang trims with your stylist to keep them looking fresh and perfectly shaped. Some salons offer free bang trims between full-service appointments.
4. Try Clip-Ins: Not ready for the commitment? Clip-in bangs are a low-risk, low-cost way to experiment with the look.

How to Discuss Bangs with Your Stylist

When you're ready to take the plunge, an open conversation with a trusted stylist is key. Bring photos of bang styles you like and be open about your hair concerns, such as thinning or a receding hairline. A great stylist can help you select a fringe that works with your unique hair texture and face shape, customizing the cut for the most flattering result. For more information on hair health in later years, visit the official AARP website.

Conclusion: Embrace Your Style with Confidence

Ultimately, a woman's best hairstyle is one that makes her feel confident and comfortable. The idea that age dictates hairstyle is a thing of the past. If you love the idea of bangs, there's a style for you. A soft, well-executed fringe can be a truly wonderful addition to your look, proving that chic, playful, and elegant style has no age limit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can bangs hide wrinkles on a forehead?

Yes, a well-cut fringe can effectively soften or hide fine lines and wrinkles on the forehead. Softer, wispy styles tend to be more effective for this, as they create a gentle, face-framing effect.

Which type of bangs are best for fine hair over 70?

Wispy bangs are an excellent choice for fine or thinning hair. They are light and airy, avoiding a sparse look, and create the illusion of more fullness around the face.

Are blunt bangs a good choice for a 70 year old woman?

Generally, heavy, blunt bangs are not recommended. They can create a harsh line that draws attention to aging features and can appear severe. Softer, more textured bangs are a more flattering option.

How often should a 70 year old woman get her bangs trimmed?

To maintain the shape and length of your bangs, regular trims every 3 to 4 weeks are typically required. You can also ask your stylist for tips on how to perform a simple trim at home between appointments.

Do bangs make a person look younger?

While bangs can provide a youthful lift by framing the eyes and softening facial features, their anti-aging effect depends entirely on the style. The goal is to choose a chic, modern cut, not to look younger by masking your age.

What if my hair is curly? Can I still get bangs?

Absolutely! Textured or curly bangs are in style and can look fantastic. It's best to find a stylist experienced in cutting and styling curly hair, and they will likely do a dry cut to account for shrinkage.

Can I try bangs without cutting my hair?

Yes, you can! Clip-in bangs are a great way to experiment with different styles without any commitment. They come in various lengths, colors, and textures, so you can find one that blends seamlessly with your hair.