10 Low Maintenance Hairstyles for Women Over 50

It’s true, hair is everything – but when you’re over 50 with a busy schedule, reduced energy levels, and perhaps less desire to spend hours in front of the mirror, finding a low-maintenance hairstyle that is both stylish and exudes confidence is a top priority. Styles that require frequent trips to the salon, meticulous daily styling, or excessive product use can quickly become burdensome, whereas low maintenance hairstyles can free up time, all whilst keeping you looking your best. In this article, we’ll be looking at 10 of the best low maintenance hairstyles for women over 50 to feel confident, polished, and ready to take on the day.

Key Considerations for Low Maintenance Hairstyles

When selecting the right low-maintenance hairstyle for women over 50, there are several important factors to consider:

Face Shape: Your face shape determines a lot – which clothes you suit, which makeup you should wear, and which low maintenance hairstyle would be the most flattering. Styles that compliment your natural features can enhance your appearance and boost your overall confidence. 

Hair Type: Your hair’s texture and thickness will also play a role in the hairstyle that will suit you best. Fine, straight type 1 or type 2 hair is better suited to a classic bob, whilst curlier, thicker type 3 or type 4 hair may require a style with built-in volume and movement, such as a shag or layers.

Lifestyle: Your lifestyle is a crucial factor to consider when it comes to determining which low-maintenance style is for you. If you’re looking for a hairstyle which holds up well to regular physical activity, minimal styling time, and infrequent salon visits, then pixie cuts or a layered lob could be the perfect option for you. 

Hair Health: As we age, the health of our hair becomes increasingly important. Styles that are gentle on the hair, for example those that avoid excessive heat styling or pulling on the hair tightly, can help to prevent damage. We’d recommend talking with your stylist to ensure you find a style that works with your hair’s current condition. 

Top 10 Low Maintenance Hairstyles for Women Over 50

As women mature, finding a style that is fashionable, yet low maintenance hairstyle becomes a priority – this guide will highlight our top low-maintenance hairstyles for women over 50. From classic bobs to chic pixie cuts, these versatile options offer a hassle-free solution that compliments natural beauty with minimal effort.

1. Pixie Cut 

Description: The pixie cut is a bold, transformative hairstyle for women seeking a modern, low-maintenance look that radiates confidence and personality. This hairstyle is renowned for its versatility, working for both edgy and elegant styles. To achieve the perfect pixie cut, the hair is cut shorter on the sides and with the hair being left longer on the top.

Suitable Hair Types: The pixie cut works best for straight to slightly wavy hair, particularly for those with fine to medium hair textures. It’s particularly flattering for women with thin hair, as it creates the illusion of volume and fullness. 

Styling Tip: To style a pixie cut, use a small amount of styling gel to create definition and movement. Blow-dry with a small round brush to add volume at the roots, or use your fingers to create a tousled, effortless look. 

2. Classic Bob 

Description: The classic bob is a timeless, elegant hairstyle for women over 50 seeking a low maintenance, yet sophisticated look. With straight or angled ends, this chin-length cut beautifully frames the face with clean, sharp lines. 

Suitable Hair Types: The classic bob works best for straight to slightly wavy hair, particularly for those with fine to medium hair textures. It adds structure and volume, making it an ideal choice for women with finer hair looking to create a fuller appearance. This style is easy to manage, requiring minimal daily effort to maintain its polished look.

Styling Tip: To style a classic bob, simply blow-dry the hair straight using a round brush to create smoothness and volume at the roots. A lightweight smoothing serum can be applied to tame any frizz and add shine. For a more defined look, you can lightly straighten the ends. 

3. Long Hair with Loose Curls 

Description: Long hair with loose curls is a romantic, effortlessly glamorous hairstyle that combines length with soft, flowing movement. This style can be worn for both casual and formal occasions. This versatile look showcases natural texture and adds dimension to long hair, creating a soft and feminine appearance.

Suitable Hair Types: Long hair with loose curls is ideal for those with naturally wavy hair, working beautifully on all hair types. It’s particularly flattering for those with hair that’s on the thinner side, as the loose curls create the illusion of fuller, more voluminous hair. 

Styling Tip: To achieve loose curls, use a large-barrel curling wand to create large waves. Always be sure to apply a heat protectant before styling and use a texture spray to enhance natural movement. If you’re wanting a more undone, beachy appearance then finish with a sea salt spray for additional texture.

4. A Shag Cut

Description: The shag haircut is a rebellious style which became popular in the 70s; consisting of lots of layers, texture, and a deliberately messy, lived-in appearance. This cut features multiple layers that create volume and movement, works for various lengths and adds an edgy, modern twist to traditional haircuts. 

Suitable Hair Types: The shag is exceptionally versatile, working brilliantly on all types of hair – from straight to wavy, and curly too! It’s particularly flattering for those with fine or thin hair, as the layers create the illusion of thickness, whilst adding extra movement and texture. The shag cut can also be adapted for thick hair as it removes some of the hair’s weight and adding shape.

Styling Tip: Embrace the cut’s natural texture and messiness by using a texture spray to enhance the tousled look. Blow-dry your hair with a diffuser to accentuate your natural wave pattern and add movement – the key to the shag cut is to avoid looking too polished! 

5. Long Layers

Description: Long layers are a timeless, versatile haircut that adds movement, dimension, and softness to long hair. Long layers create depth and remove weight, transforming a cut which can sometimes be regarded as boring – and a bonus is that it suits almost any face shape and hair type!

Suitable Hair Types: This low-maintenance cut is ideal for all hair textures from straight to curly, working exceptionally well for medium to thick hair. For those with fine hair, lighter, more subtle layers can create the illusion of volume without overwhelming the hair’s natural density. The cut is particularly beneficial for those looking to remove weight from thick hair whilst maintaining length and shape.

Styling Tip: Blow-dry using a round brush to create volume and movement, focusing on lifting roots and creating soft, natural-looking bend in the layers. A lightweight smoothing serum can help control frizz and add shine. 

6. Curly Bob

Description: The curly bob is a versatile, low maintenance option that works well for women over 50 with natural curls or waves. This style features a chin-length cut with soft, face-framing layers that enhance volume and movement. 

Suitable Hair Type: This style is ideal for those with medium to thick hair, as the shorter length helps to minimise styling time and remove some of the hair’s weight whilst maintaining the shape and looking polished and youthful.

Styling Tip: To style a curly bob, simply scrunch in a curl-enhancing product after washing and let air-dry for an effortless, natural look. Diffusing with a blow dryer on a low setting can also help to define the curls.

7. Side-Swept Bangs 

Description: Side-swept bangs are a timeless, face-flattering choice that can seamlessly integrate into a variety of hairstyles. Whether paired with a bob, lob, or even a pixie cut, these angled bangs help to soften the features and frame the face in a youthful, feminine way, making them a perfect option for women over the age of 50. 

Suitable Hair Type: Side-swept bangs work well for those with fine to medium, as they bring volume and dimension to the cut. The soft, wispy nature of the style complements both thin and thicker hair textures.

Styling Tip: To style side-swept bangs, simply blow-dry them in the desired direction using a round brush, lifting at the root for a more volumised look. Apply a small amount of light-hold hairspray to help keep them in place throughout the day.

8. Low Bun  

Description: The timeless low bun is an elegant, low-maintenance option that keeps hair neatly contained while still allowing for a polished, sophisticated look. The low placement at the nape of the neck is both flattering and comfortable, making it an ideal choice for busy days or special occasions.

Suitable Hair Type: The low bun works well for those with fine to medium, straight to wavy hair. The style can be adapted to accommodate different levels of thickness and texture.

Styling Tip: To create a low bun, start by applying a smoothing serum or cream to damp hair. Gather the hair at the nape of the neck, twist it into a coil, and secure with bobby pins or a scrunchie. Finish with a light hold hairspray to keep flyaways at bay.

9. Asymmetrical Bob  

Description: The asymmetrical bob is a modern, edgy hairstyle that can be a great low-maintenance option for women over 50. This style features a graduated, uneven hemline, with one side of the hair being cut slightly longer than the other – adding edge to a classic cut.  

Suitable Hair Type: The asymmetrical bob works best on women with hair that’s on the thinner or finer side, as it gives the illusion of thicker hair. The graduated layers help to add movement and body to the cut, which is particularly flattering for those with thinner hair.

Styling Tip: To style an asymmetrical bob, blow-dry using a round brush, focusing on lifting the roots and directing the longer side of the cut away from the face. Finish with a light hold hairspray to keep the style in place throughout the day. 

10. Slick Back Ponytail 

Description: The slick back ponytail is a sophisticated, versatile hairstyle that exudes elegance and professionalism. This sleek style pulls the hair away from the face, creating a clean look that works from both professional and informal occasions. 

Suitable Hair Types: The slick back ponytail works exceptionally well for straight hair, which helps to accentuate the style’s sleek nature. Whilst this style works best for those with thicker hair, a slick back ponytail can also be achieved with hair that is on the thinner side.  

Styling tip: To create a perfect slick back ponytail, start by pulling the hair to the top of the head, getting rid of any bumps or flyaways and secure with a hair bobble. Apply a firming hairspray to hold the style in place all day. 

Tips for Maintaining Low Maintenance Hairstyles

Regular Trims: Regular trims are essential for keeping low-maintenance hairstyles looking their best. We’d recommend visiting your salon every 6-8 weeks for a trim to remove split ends, prevent further damage, and maintain the desired shape and length. 

Hair Care Routine: When opting for a low-maintenance hairstyle, it’s important to take a closer look at the products you’re using. To ensure the hair stays in optimum health, we’d recommend using a sulphate-free shampoo and conditioner and to limit heat styling to preserve the hair’s health and reduce maintenance.

Choosing the Right Styling Products: The right styling products can make a big difference in the longevity and manageability of a low-maintenance hairstyle. Look for lightweight, buildable products like volumising mousses, texturising sprays, or light hold gels that can be easily applied and reworked throughout the day. 

Colouring Hair: When it comes to hair colour, low-maintenance styles tend to pair best with colours that grow out gracefully and require minimal touch-ups. We’d recommend trying balayage or a multi-dimensional brunette which are the best for maintaining regrowth.  

Matching Your Hairstyle to Your Lifestyle

Active Lifestyle: For women with busy, active lifestyles, low-maintenance hairstyles are essential. Options like a classic pixie cut, a layered lob, or a messy bun are all great choices. These styles require minimal daily styling, whilst keeping you looking fabulous all day long. 

Professional Settings: When it comes to the office or other professional environments, women over 50 should seek out hairstyles that look polished and put-together without requiring a lot of fuss. A sleek, side-parted bob, a classic chignon, or soft, face-framing layers can all create a refined, work-appropriate look. 

Casual Everyday Styles: The most low-maintenance hairstyles tend to be the ones that embrace a natural, effortless vibe. These might include a wash-and-wear wavy lob, a messy topknot, or face-framing curtain bangs. These styles allow women to look and feel put-together without taking up too much time or effort. 

Book Your Hair Appointment Now

Are you a woman over 50 who is looking to find their ideal low-maintenance hairstyle? Book your hair appointment with one of our skilled stylists at Rush.co.uk or find a hairdresser near you to embark on a personalised hair journey and find your favourite low-maintenance hairstyle. Our stylists are experts in finding your perfect hairstyle – they’re here to bring your hair dreams to life!