7 Best Hairstyles for Thin Hair Over 50, According to Celebrity Stylists

Many women tend to experience hair loss and thinning hair as they age. Some people even have naturally thin hair and that’s okay. When it comes to styling fine, thin hair, it can be difficult as there’s not much to work with and it can look limp and unflattering.

That said, we spoke with celebrity hairstylists about the best hairstyles for thin hair over 50 (whether you have long hair, short hair or a medium length) and here’s what they had to say. Plus, we have some tips on how you can achieve these low-maintenance looks at home or ask your hair stylist on your next trip to the salon.

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7 Best Hairstyles for Thin Hair Over 50, According to Celebrity Stylists

1. Pixie cut

With a pixie cut, a little hair can go a long way so it’s a great option for those with thinning hair.

“Short hair gives the appearance of fullness, and the pixie-style cut adds volume and texture,” says Temur Hamilton, premier hair colorist and stylist, and owner of TEMUR in New York City. “This haircut is also effortless—just add a little bit of styling product or some texturizing spray, then tousle, and you’re done.”

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2. Shag

According to Hamilton, shag cuts create lots of volume and texture which gives the illusion of thicker, fuller hair making it one of the best hairstyles for those with thinning hair.

“There is a lot of versatility with a shag cut, too—you can go with a classic feathery, 70s-inspired look, or take a more modern approach with the wolf cut, which has become very popular in the past few years,” he adds.

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3. Tousled bob

A tousled bob is another suitable option for women with thin hair.

“Adding choppy layers to a blunt, chin-length bob creates dimension and movement, which makes the hair appear fuller,” Hamilton explains.

When it comes to a tousled bob, you’ll want to be sure to have some hair spray and a curling iron on standby to give it a more elevated look.

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4. Bangs

Xavier Velasquez, celebrity hair stylist and brand ambassador for Virtue Labs, says that women over 50 years old with thin hair may want to consider bangs.

“They’re the best way to amp any haircut or style when your hair is on thinner side,” he tells Parade. “Using dry shampoo is key here, because bangs on fine hair do tend to pick up the natural oils from your face.”

5. Messy bun

Whether you have long hair, short hair or thin hair, a messy bun should be on your radar.

“A loose, messy bun is an elegant yet practical option for thinning hair,” says Nawel Abdelaziz, celebrity hair stylist based in Sherman Oaks, California. “Whether styled high or low, this look can cleverly conceal sparse areas while keeping your hair comfortable and secure.

She adds that you’ll want to avoid tight hairstyles that tug on the hair follicles—instead, opt for a soft, relaxed finish to protect your scalp and maintain healthy hair.

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6. Side part

If you have thin hair and you normally part your hair down the middle, then you’ll want to think again. Abdelaziz says switching to a side part can work wonders for thinning hair.

“By sweeping more hair to one side, you can effectively cover any sparse areas on your scalp,” she tells Parade. “This chic style complements all hair textures, lengths and types, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.”

7. Curls and natural textures

According to Abdelazaiz, curls and waves are fantastic for adding volume and disguising thinning areas, especially around the crown. They create the impression of thicker, fuller hair.

“For best results, use hydrating light hold products that won’t weigh your hair down, and diffuse on a low heat setting to give more volume,” she tells Parade. 

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Related: 7 Best Low-Maintenance Haircuts for Women Over 50, According to Celebrity Stylists

Sources

• Temur Hamilton, premier hair colorist and stylist, and owner of TEMUR in New York City
• Xavier Velasquez, celebrity hair stylist and brand ambassador for Virtue Labs
• Nawel Abdelaziz, celebrity hair stylist based in Sherman Oaks, California