The world of hair care and styling has evolved tremendously since the Baby Boomer era. Many of the hair rules they grew up with have transformed, while some have remained steady anchors in the ever-changing sea of trends.
By examining these hair doctrines, we can learn which ones continue to play a vital role today and which have become relics of the past.
This exploration brings both a sense of nostalgia and practical advice for those navigating modern hair care. Whether you’re embracing natural textures or revisiting classic styles, here’s a look at 17 hair rules from the past and their relevance in 2025.
Weekly Hair Washing
Back in the day, weekly hair washing was the norm. Many Baby Boomers were taught to wash their hair once a week, using basic shampoos and conditioners.
Fast forward to today, and this frequency still holds value for some. Over-washing can strip the hair of its natural oils, leaving it dry and brittle. Many modern stylists recommend a personalized approach, catering to hair type and lifestyle.
Experimenting with dry shampoos and gentle cleansing techniques can strike the perfect balance, maintaining both hair health and cleanliness. This timeless rule adapts beautifully to today’s diverse hair needs.
The Perfect Perm
Perms were all the rage, with curls defining the fashion statement of the era. Baby Boomers lined up to add volume and texture to their locks through this chemical process.
Today, perms are reimagined with gentler formulas and more natural looks. The concept of creating texture remains popular, but now it’s about embracing softness and movement rather than rigid curls.
Modern perms cater to a variety of styles, from beachy waves to loose, romantic curls, ensuring that this rule remains a playful and enduring choice for those seeking a bit of flair in their hairstyle.
Brushing 100 Strokes
The ritual of brushing hair 100 strokes nightly was believed to enhance shine and stimulate the scalp. This practice, passed down from mothers to daughters, held a comforting, meditative quality.
While modern hair experts agree on the benefits of scalp massage, the need for 100 strokes has faded.
Over-brushing can lead to breakage, especially with today’s varied hair textures. Instead, focus on gentle detangling and targeted scalp stimulation.
Incorporating these elements into your routine can offer relaxation and hair health without the risk of overexertion, making it a gentle nod to this classic rule.
Avoiding Hair Products
Baby Boomers often heard warnings about the dangers of using too many hair products. The belief was that heavy products could weigh hair down or damage it.
Today, the landscape has shifted with a plethora of products designed to enhance and protect hair.
While the minimalist philosophy still resonates with some, others embrace products like serums, leave-in conditioners, and volumizers.
The lesson is clear: choose products wisely, focusing on quality over quantity. This approach ensures hair remains vibrant and healthy, all while embracing the vast array of modern styling tools available to consumers.
Natural Hair Color
Embracing one’s natural hair color was a source of pride for many Baby Boomers. The idea was to age gracefully and naturally.
Though hair dye became popular, many stuck to their roots—literally. Fast forward to 2025, and the trend has come full circle, with natural shades, including gray, celebrated more than ever.
Silver strands are now a badge of honor, a testament to authenticity and self-acceptance.
This timeless rule echoes today’s embrace of individuality, encouraging people to love their natural hues and wear them with confidence and flair.
Twice a Year Trims
Regular trims were essential to maintaining healthy hair, with many Baby Boomers booking their salon visits twice a year.
The goal was to prevent split ends and keep hair looking polished.
While this timeline worked for many, today’s stylists recommend more frequent trims—every six to eight weeks—especially for those with damaged or styled hair.
Regular maintenance helps preserve hair’s integrity and encourages growth.
This rule’s core principle of routine care remains relevant, serving as a reminder that grooming is key to achieving healthy, vibrant hair in any decade.
Setting with Rollers
For Baby Boomers, setting hair with rollers was a social activity and style necessity. The painstaking process of rolling, setting, and drying was part of the weekly beauty ritual.
Today, while curling irons and hair straighteners offer convenience, rollers still hold a nostalgic charm.
They provide a gentle alternative for achieving volume and curls without heat damage.
The resurgence of vintage styles brings rollers back into the spotlight, blending traditional methods with modern preferences for a versatile styling option that respects hair health while creating beautiful, timeless looks.
Teased and Sprayed
Teasing hair and setting it with a generous blast of hairspray was the epitome of 60s glamour. Many Baby Boomers spent hours perfecting voluminous styles that defied gravity.
While today’s hairstyles favor more natural finishes, the essence of volume remains popular. Backcombing techniques are gentler, and hairsprays offer flexible holds that preserve hair’s natural movement.
This rule’s evolution reflects a balance between style and hair health, offering the best of both worlds. With creativity and the right tools, anyone can achieve a look that’s both modern and reminiscent of this iconic era.
Bangs for Every Face
Bangs were a versatile feature, flattering various face shapes and allowing Baby Boomers to express individuality. From blunt cuts to wispy strands, bangs offered a youthful touch.
Nowadays, bangs continue to be a popular style choice, with trends adapting to suit contemporary aesthetics. Curtain bangs, micro fringes, and textured styles provide endless possibilities.
The lesson here is that bangs remain a powerful tool for framing the face and enhancing personal style, offering a nod to the past while embracing innovation and personalization in modern hair fashion.
Homemade Hair Rinses
Homemade hair rinses were cherished for their natural benefits, with Baby Boomers often using ingredients like vinegar and herbs.
These concoctions promised shine, softness, and purity. In 2025, the DIY spirit thrives, with many opting for natural, chemical-free alternatives.
From apple cider vinegar to herbal infusions, these rinses complement commercial products, offering a personalized touch.
This enduring rule embodies the trend towards sustainable beauty, blending traditional wisdom with modern preferences.
The allure of natural hair care continues to captivate, encouraging experimentation with gentle, nourishing ingredients.
Hair Nets for Bed
Hair nets were a nighttime staple for Baby Boomers, preserving intricate styles while minimizing frizz. Worn to bed, these nets ensured that mornings started with a polished look.
Although less common now, the concept persists in silk or satin bonnets and pillowcases, promoting hair health and retaining moisture.
These modern alternatives reduce friction and breakage, aligning with the nostalgic goal of maintaining style overnight.
The essence of this rule endures, emphasizing the importance of protective measures in hair care routines, and highlighting the innovation that keeps traditional practices alive in contemporary contexts.
Tight Ponytails
Tight ponytails were a practical and stylish choice for Baby Boomers, offering both convenience and a neat appearance.
As timeless as this style is, experts today caution against wearing them too often or too tight, to prevent hair damage and tension headaches.
Instead, a softer, looser ponytail is recommended, preserving the aesthetic while protecting the hair and scalp.
This evolution underscores the balance between practicality and care, ensuring that this beloved style remains accessible without the drawbacks of the past.
It’s a testament to adapting classic looks to meet modern hair health standards.
Side Part for Sophistication
The side part was synonymous with sophistication, offering a clean, polished look for many Baby Boomers. This simple yet effective style transcended gender, providing a versatile option for both men and women.
Today, the side part remains a staple, favored for its elegance and adaptability. It complements various hair types and lengths, demonstrating its timeless appeal.
By pairing this classic look with modern styling techniques, individuals can achieve a refined appearance that honors tradition while embracing contemporary flair, making it a go-to choice for those seeking a touch of elegance.
Oiling the Scalp
Oiling the scalp was a nourishing tradition many Baby Boomers grew up with, promoting hydration and hair health.
This practice, often conducted with warm oils, aimed to alleviate dryness and encourage growth. In 2025, scalp oils are experiencing a resurgence, with formulations catering to diverse needs, from dandruff control to enhanced shine.
Incorporating oils into hair care routines offers hydration and relaxation, reflecting an ongoing appreciation for this soothing ritual.
The rejuvenation of this rule highlights the importance of scalp care as foundational to healthy, vibrant hair in any era.
Bouffant and Beehives
Bouffant and beehive hairstyles epitomized the glamour of the Baby Boomer era, showcasing height and drama.
These styles required skill and patience, becoming a symbol of social status and elegance. While the extreme volume has mellowed in modern interpretations, the influence remains.
Today’s styling embraces texture and volume with a softer approach, using modern tools and products for a touch of retro flair.
This evolution celebrates creativity and individuality, allowing the spirit of these iconic looks to thrive without sacrificing the ease and practicality desired in contemporary hairstyling.
Accessorizing with Scarves and Bows
Hair accessories like scarves and bows added flair and personality to Baby Boomers’ hairstyles.
These adornments offered a playful way to spice up everyday looks, from casual outings to formal events.
Today, accessories continue to be a fun and fashionable choice, with an endless variety of options to suit any style and occasion.
They allow for easy personalization and experimentation, celebrating the joy of self-expression.
This rule’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to transform a hairstyle with minimal effort, proving that sometimes the simplest touches make the most significant impact.
Gentle Shampooing
Back in the day, Baby Boomers were taught the importance of using gentle shampoos to care for their hair.
Avoiding harsh chemicals was not just a preference but a necessity to maintain hair integrity.
Fast forward to 2025, and this wisdom resonates strongly in our eco-conscious world.
Many now choose shampoos that are sulfate-free and enriched with nourishing botanical extracts, aligning with both health and environmental goals.
This gentle cleansing routine ensures that hair remains vibrant and resilient, a testament to the enduring wisdom of past generations. Consider making the switch to eco-friendly shampoos for a naturally radiant hair glow.