What is the best hairstyle for men over 60? Finding a Signature Look

Studies show that feeling confident in one's appearance can positively impact overall well-being and social engagement. When searching for what is the best hairstyle for men over 60, it's less about chasing fleeting trends and more about finding a classic, flattering style that suits your unique features and hair type.

Quick Summary

The best hairstyle for a man over 60 depends on individual factors like hair texture, lifestyle, and face shape. Often recommended are classic, low-maintenance cuts like the crew cut, textured crop, or a distinguished side part, which skillfully address common changes like thinning or graying hair.

Key Points

• Texture is your friend: For thinning hair, textured styles add volume and mask sparse areas, creating a fuller, more youthful appearance.

• Embrace the classics: Timeless cuts like the crew cut or side part offer a sophisticated, low-maintenance look that never goes out of style.

• Work with a barber: A professional barber provides tailored advice, helping you choose and execute a style that complements your face shape and hair.

• Confidence is key: The most stylish look comes from owning your age, embracing changes like gray hair, and choosing a style that makes you feel good.

• Right products for the job: Use matte, light-hold styling products and consider a purple shampoo to keep gray and white hair looking vibrant and non-yellowed.

Understanding Hair Changes After 60

As men age, hair undergoes natural changes that influence what styles are most flattering and practical. Hair may begin to thin, the hairline might recede, and the texture can become coarser or finer. Gray and white hair are also part of this transition, adding a distinguished character. Instead of fighting these changes, the most effective strategy is to choose a hairstyle that works with them. This is key when considering what is the best hairstyle for men over 60.

Working with Thinning Hair and Receding Hairlines

For men experiencing hair loss, strategic cuts can create the illusion of fullness and minimize the appearance of thinning areas.

• The Buzz Cut: This is a confident, no-nonsense style that embraces a minimalist look. By cutting the hair very short all over, it effectively hides thinning spots on the crown and blends a receding hairline. It is also exceptionally low-maintenance.
• The Crew Cut: A slightly longer, more versatile version of the buzz cut, the crew cut keeps the sides and back short while leaving some length on top. A skilled barber can add texture to the top to create movement and volume, making thin hair appear thicker.
• The Caesar Cut: This style features a short, straight fringe at the front that is brushed forward. It is an excellent choice for concealing a receding hairline and creating a uniform, clean look. It works particularly well with gray hair.

Classic and Timeless Styles for Full Hair

Not all men over 60 experience significant hair loss. For those with a full head of hair, classic and sophisticated styles are ideal.

• The Classic Side Part: A timeless, professional look that requires little effort. This cut involves a defined side part with neatly combed hair. It works well for most hair types and lengths, offering a polished finish.
• Swept Back: For men with thicker, longer hair on top, sweeping the hair back with a matte product provides volume and a refined, slightly textured appearance. This style can be adapted for a more casual or formal look.
• The Ivy League: A variation of the crew cut, this style leaves enough length on top to be combed to the side. It offers a preppy, intelligent look that is both clean and stylish.

Embracing Gray and White Hair with Style

Gray and white hair should be celebrated, not hidden. The right haircut can accentuate this mature, sophisticated color.

• The Textured Crop: This modern cut features a short, choppy texture on top that adds volume and definition. It pairs exceptionally well with salt-and-pepper or full gray hair, giving a youthful yet refined edge.
• Soft Layered Cut: For men who prefer more length, soft layers can be used to add shape and remove heaviness. This works wonders for both thick and thin hair, allowing gray hair to flow naturally.
• Bald with a Beard: For those who fully embrace hair loss, pairing a cleanly shaved head with a well-groomed beard creates a powerful, masculine look. It's a statement of confidence that many older men find liberating.

Choosing a Hairstyle Based on Face Shape

Selecting a haircut that complements your face shape is crucial for achieving a balanced and attractive appearance. Here are some basic guidelines:

• Oval Face: Most styles work well. You have the flexibility to experiment with different lengths and looks.
• Square Face: The strong jawline of a square face is often complemented by softer styles, such as a textured cut or a layered look. Avoid sharp lines that can make the face appear more angular.
• Round Face: Aim for hairstyles that add height and volume on top to elongate the face. A pompadour or a textured crop can be great options.
• Long Face: Shorter hair on top and longer on the sides can help balance a long face. Consider a side part or a classic crew cut.

Comparison of Popular Hairstyles for Men Over 60

Hairstyle	Best For	Maintenance Level	Best for Gray Hair	Key Feature
Buzz Cut	Thinning Hair, Minimalists	Very Low	Excellent	Ultimate Simplicity
Crew Cut	Versatility, Thinning Hair	Low	Very Good	Structured, Classic
Classic Side Part	All Hair Types, Timeless	Low to Medium	Excellent	Professional Look
Textured Crop	Thinning Hair, Modern Style	Medium	Excellent	Adds Youthful Edge
Ivy League	All Hair Types, Refined Style	Low to Medium	Good	Collegiate Appeal
Swept Back	Full Hair, Sophisticated	Medium to High	Very Good	Adds Volume & Elegance
Caesar Cut	Receding Hairline	Low	Excellent	Forward Fringe

The Lowdown on Maintenance and Grooming

No matter which style you choose, proper grooming is essential for a polished look. Hair changes with age, so your product choices may need to adapt.

• Use the Right Products: Opt for matte clays, pastes, or light waxes that provide hold without a greasy shine. These products are excellent for adding texture to thinning hair. For gray hair, consider a purple or blue-tinted shampoo once a week to prevent yellowing.
• Minimize Washing: As hair ages, it can become drier. Washing every day may strip natural oils. Try washing every other day or every third day to maintain healthy hair.
• Stay Trimmed: Regular haircuts are vital for keeping your chosen style looking sharp. For shorter cuts, this might mean a trip to the barber every 3-4 weeks. For longer or layered styles, every 6-8 weeks is sufficient.

Your Consultation: Talking to Your Barber

Communication with your barber is key. Don't be afraid to bring pictures of styles you like, but be open to their professional advice, especially regarding your specific hair type and face shape. A good barber will offer suggestions on how to adapt a style to suit your unique needs. Discuss your lifestyle and how much time you're willing to spend on styling each day.

Conclusion: Confidence is Key

Ultimately, what is the best hairstyle for men over 60 is not a single answer but a range of classic, modern, and low-maintenance options that cater to the unique characteristics of mature hair. The best haircut is the one that makes you feel confident and comfortable, allowing your experience and personality to shine through. Whether you opt for the clean simplicity of a buzz cut or the sophisticated elegance of a side part, wear your hair with confidence.

For more in-depth advice on hairstyles and managing thinning hair, consult the experts at Wimpole Clinic for comprehensive guides.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can men over 60 with thinning hair have a stylish cut?

Yes, absolutely. Cuts like the buzz cut, Caesar cut, or a textured crop are excellent for creating the illusion of fullness while being low-maintenance and modern. A skilled barber can work magic with thinning hair.

What is a good low-maintenance hairstyle for a senior man?

The buzz cut and crew cut are top choices for low-maintenance styles. The classic side part can also be very low-fuss, especially with a bit of a matte product for a controlled, clean look.

Should I get a fade if I'm over 60?

A fade can certainly work for older men. A subtle taper fade that gradually transitions hair length is a stylish and contemporary choice that looks clean and sharp without being overly trendy. The key is to keep it understated and well-blended.

How can I make my gray or white hair look its best?

Gray and white hair look fantastic in short, sharp styles that highlight their texture, like a textured crop or a neat side part. Using a tinted shampoo can prevent any unwanted yellowing, and a quality matte product can enhance the natural look.

What hair products are best for older men's hair?

Look for matte finish products like clays, pastes, or light waxes that provide texture and hold without shine. These are better for creating the appearance of fuller hair and avoiding a greasy look. For gray hair, a purple shampoo can be beneficial.

Is it okay for older men to have longer hair?

Yes, long hair can be very distinguished on older men. However, it requires more maintenance to look neat, not unkempt. A layered cut that gives hair structure and volume is often a better choice than a shapeless, longer style.

How often should older men get their hair cut?

Frequency depends on the cut. Very short styles like a buzz cut may need a trim every 3-4 weeks to stay sharp, while a layered or swept-back look can go 6-8 weeks between cuts. Regular trims are crucial for maintaining a polished appearance.