Should I have bangs at 70? Choosing a Fringe That Flatters

According to celebrity stylists, a well-cut fringe can be a low-commitment, high-reward way to instantly update your look and soften features. The question, "Should I have bangs at 70?" is not about age but about choosing a style that works with your hair's texture and your face shape to create a fresh, modern aesthetic.

Quick Summary

Deciding to get bangs at 70 is a stylish choice that can work beautifully, provided you select a style that complements your face shape, hair type, and maintenance preferences. The right fringe can soften features, add volume, and provide a youthful-looking update to your hairstyle, proving that good hair has no age limit.

Key Points

• Age is Not a Factor: The decision to get bangs at 70 should be based on personal preference and style, not age-related rules.

• Softens Features: Wispy or side-swept bangs can effectively soften facial features and provide a youthful look.

• Conceals and Adds Volume: Bangs are a practical solution for hiding forehead wrinkles or thinning hair, creating the illusion of thickness.

• Choose Based on Face Shape and Hair Texture: Selecting the right style, such as curtain bangs for oval faces or side-swept for round faces, is crucial for a flattering result.

• Manage Expectations: Bangs require regular trims and some daily styling, so consider your lifestyle before committing.

• Consult a Professional: A stylist experienced with mature hair can provide expert advice and help you achieve a beautiful, confidence-boosting look.

Rethinking Hair Rules: Why Age Is Just a Number for Bangs

For decades, outdated beauty rules suggested that certain hairstyles were off-limits as we aged. Today, a more liberating approach to style proves that confidence is the most important accessory. For women in their 70s, bangs offer a versatile and chic option to enhance natural beauty. They can provide a soft, face-framing effect, camouflage a high forehead or thinning hairline, and draw attention to the eyes. This section will debunk common myths and encourage a focus on what makes you feel great.

Benefits of Bangs for Mature Hair

Mature hair often undergoes changes, such as becoming finer, drier, or more prone to thinning. Bangs can address several of these concerns while adding a touch of modern flair.

• Softens Facial Features: As we age, our features can become more pronounced. Soft, wispy, or side-swept bangs create a gentle frame around the face, balancing and softening your look.
• Hides Fine Lines: A strategically placed fringe can be an effortless, non-invasive way to cover fine lines or wrinkles on the forehead, shifting the focus to your eyes.
• Adds Volume and Thickness: For those with fine or thinning hair, bangs can create the illusion of fuller, thicker hair at the front, where hair loss is often most noticeable.
• Refreshes Your Look: Cutting bangs can provide a dramatic change without committing to a full haircut. It's a quick and effective way to feel like you have a brand-new style.

Choosing the Right Bangs for Your Face Shape

Just like any haircut, the best bangs are those that work with your unique features. Here is a guide to help you find your perfect match.

Face Shape Guide for Bangs

• Oval Face: Considered the most versatile face shape, you can experiment with most bang styles. Try classic straight-across bangs or long, layered curtain bangs.
• Round Face: Long, side-swept bangs that fall diagonally across the forehead are excellent for adding length and softening the face's curves. Avoid blunt, straight-across cuts that can accentuate the roundness.
• Square Face: Soften angular jawlines with wispy, textured bangs that hit just below the eyebrows. Side-swept or long, layered fringes also work well to balance sharp features.
• Heart-Shaped Face: Side-swept or curtain bangs are perfect for balancing a wider forehead and a narrower chin. The gentle swooping motion draws attention to the eyes and cheekbones.
• Long Face: Full, straight-across bangs can help balance the length of your face by creating the illusion of width. Avoid short, wispy styles that can make your face appear longer.

Popular Bang Styles for Women Over 70

Not all bangs are created equal. Here are some of the most popular and flattering options for mature women.

1. Curtain Bangs: Soft, parted bangs that sweep to the sides like curtains. They are low-maintenance, versatile, and frame the face beautifully.
2. Side-Swept Bangs: A classic and foolproof choice, side-swept bangs are easy to style and grow out gracefully. They offer a gentle, sophisticated look.
3. Wispy Bangs: A soft, feathered fringe that is not too heavy or thick. Wispy bangs can make fine hair appear fuller and soften the face.
4. Blunt Bangs: For those with thicker, straighter hair, a precise blunt fringe can create a chic, modern statement, provided it's tailored to your face shape.

Bangs and Different Hair Textures

Your hair's natural texture plays a significant role in how bangs will look and behave.

• Straight Hair: Straight hair is ideal for blunt and curtain bangs, as it holds its shape well. Styling is often minimal.
• Wavy Hair: Side-swept or longer curtain bangs are great for wavy hair, as they can be styled with minimal fuss and look soft and natural. Avoid blunt cuts that might look stiff.
• Curly Hair: Embrace your natural texture! Curly bangs can add a playful, modern touch. Have your stylist cut them dry to ensure the right length and avoid surprising shrinkage.
• Fine or Thinning Hair: Wispy or feathered bangs are your best bet. They create a soft, full appearance without taking too much hair from the rest of your style.

Comparison of Bang Styles for Seniors

Style	Best For	Pros	Cons	Maintenance
Curtain Bangs	All face shapes	Versatile, modern, grows out well	Requires some heat styling for shape	Low to moderate
Side-Swept Bangs	Round, Square, Heart faces	Softens features, very low-maintenance	Can lose shape in fine hair	Low
Wispy Bangs	Fine hair, long faces	Adds volume, camouflages forehead	Can look stringy if over-oiled	Low to moderate
Blunt Bangs	Oval, long faces, thick hair	Chic, bold statement, hides forehead completely	Can look severe, high maintenance	High

Styling and Maintenance Tips

Having bangs requires a small but consistent commitment to styling and care. Here are some tips to keep your fringe looking fabulous:

• Invest in a Good Round Brush: A small, round brush is essential for blow-drying bangs and adding shape. Guide the hair with the brush while directing the dryer's nozzle downward.
• Dry Shampoo is Your Friend: Bangs can get oily faster than the rest of your hair. A quick spritz of dry shampoo can refresh them between washes without stripping natural oils.
• Frequent Trims are Key: To maintain the desired length and shape, plan on getting your bangs trimmed every 3-4 weeks. Many salons offer complimentary bang trims for existing clients.
• Work with Your Natural Hairline: If you have a stubborn cowlick, don't fight it. A skilled stylist can work with your hairline to create a bang style that accommodates it, such as side-swept or curtain bangs.

Confidence is Key

Ultimately, the decision to have bangs at 70 is a personal one. A new hairstyle can be a significant boost to your self-confidence and a wonderful form of self-expression. Consult with a professional hairstylist who understands mature hair and can help you select a style that is both beautiful and manageable. Don't be afraid to try something new and exciting.

To see some inspiring celebrity examples and learn more about hair trends for all ages, check out this article on Hairstyles for Women Over 50. The most flattering haircut is always the one you feel great wearing. So, if you're asking, "Should I have bangs at 70?" the resounding answer is: absolutely, if you want to!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there bangs that can make a woman over 70 look younger?

Yes, many bang styles can create a more youthful appearance. Soft, wispy bangs and face-framing curtain bangs are excellent choices, as they soften features and draw attention to the eyes. A professional stylist can help determine the most flattering style for your unique face shape and hair texture.

Can I have bangs if my hair is thinning?

Yes, bangs can be a great option for thinning hair. Wispy or feathered bangs can be cut to create the illusion of fullness and hide a receding or sparse hairline, particularly at the front. A good stylist can expertly shape them to maximize volume and coverage.

What is the best type of bangs for gray hair?

All types of bangs can look great with gray hair. The focus should be on the style that best suits your face shape and hair texture. In fact, gray hair's unique texture can lend itself beautifully to modern, layered styles like curtain or wispy bangs.

How do I deal with a cowlick if I get bangs?

A cowlick can be challenging but isn't a dealbreaker for bangs. A stylist can work with your hair's natural growth pattern by cutting longer, side-swept bangs or curtain bangs that part naturally around the cowlick. A little bit of styling with a round brush can also help train the hair.

How often do bangs need to be trimmed?

To maintain their shape and length, bangs typically require a trim every 3 to 4 weeks. Many salons offer complimentary bang trims between full-service appointments. This regular upkeep is key to preventing them from becoming unruly or losing their flattering effect.

Are bangs high maintenance for someone in their 70s?

The level of maintenance depends on the style. Side-swept and longer, layered curtain bangs are generally lower maintenance. Blunt or short micro bangs require more frequent trimming and styling. Consider your daily routine and choose a style that fits your lifestyle.

What if I get bangs and don't like them?

Bangs are not permanent! One of their benefits is that they are a low-risk change. Side-swept and curtain bangs grow out particularly gracefully and can be pinned back or blended into face-framing layers over time. This makes them a great way to experiment with a new look.