If your hairstyle needs its own calendar, it might be time to let it go.
Let’s face it—life after 60 should be about joy, not juggling three styling tools and a shelf full of products just to feel put-together. Some cuts may look runway-ready, but if they leave you exhausted, frustrated, or stuck in front of a mirror for an hour… hard pass.
Low-maintenance doesn’t mean low-style. It means smart, flattering, and still fabulous without the stress. Because beauty shouldn’t be a full-time job, especially when you’ve got better things to do.
These 17 high-maintenance hairstyles might be stealing your time and your shine. Let’s call them out—and clear the path for effortless elegance.
Elaborate Updos
Elaborate updos can be a beautiful sight, reminiscent of grand soirees and celebrations. However, the reality of maintaining such a style can be daunting.
These hairstyles often require a multitude of pins, sprays, and sometimes even professional assistance to perfect.
For women over 60, the constant upkeep can be more trouble than it’s worth, turning a night out into a day-long preparation.
Instead, consider simpler styles that offer elegance without the hassle. A soft chignon or a classic low bun can provide the same grace with half the effort.
Your time is precious; why spend it wrestling with hair?
Intricate Braids
Intricate braids are often admired for their artistic flair and intricate designs. While they can be eye-catching, the time and effort required to achieve and maintain these styles can be overwhelming.
Older women might find themselves spending significant time in front of the mirror or in the salon chair, trying to perfect each strand.
Braids are lovely, but simpler versions can save you time and stress. Opt for loose, flowing styles that frame the face and embrace natural textures.
Remember, beauty should never come at the cost of comfort or joy.
Tight Curls
Tight curls can be a lively and spirited look, but they often come with their share of challenges, especially for mature women.
The curl maintenance involves regular styling, specific products, and vigilant care to prevent frizz and tangles. Over time, this can become a taxing routine.
Embrace softer waves or relaxed curls that require less commitment and allow for more freedom.
Natural beauty shines through when you’re not bound by an exhausting hair regimen. Let your hair breathe, and your style will reflect your inner vibrancy.
Pixie Cuts with Bangs
Pixie cuts with bangs might seem like a youthful choice, reflecting confidence and a modern edge. However, they demand frequent trims and daily styling to maintain the shape and texture.
For women over 60, this can add up to a considerable investment of time and money.
Instead, opt for a classic pixie without the extra fluff. A style that works with your natural hair texture can be equally chic without the constant upkeep.
Style should enhance your lifestyle, not dictate it. Let simplicity be your guide.
Long, Layered Locks
Long, layered locks are often associated with glamour and beauty. Yet, they demand regular trims, products, and styling to keep them looking fresh and lively.
For mature women, this can become an overwhelming task, filled with endless appointments and routines.
Consider shoulder-length hair that allows for movement and style without the burden. Simple layers can still offer volume and charm without the hassle.
Streamline your hair care, and you’ll find a harmony between beauty and convenience.
Voluminous Blowouts
Voluminous blowouts can exude confidence and style, often turning heads with their boldness.
Yet, achieving and maintaining such volume requires a diligent routine of blow-drying, products, and sometimes professional styling.
For women over 60, this can quickly become exhausting.
Consider embracing your natural volume or opting for more subtle styles that allow your hair’s natural texture to shine.
Life is too short to spend hours battling blow-dryers and sprays. Find joy in simplicity, and let your hair reflect your authentic self.
High Ponytails
High ponytails are often seen as sporty and youthful, but they can be harsh on the scalp and hair, especially for older women.
The constant pulling can lead to discomfort and even hair damage over time. Maintaining the sleekness of a high ponytail requires consistent attention.
Why not try a low ponytail or loose bun that provides both style and comfort?
These alternatives are kinder to your hair and offer a relaxed elegance that doesn’t compromise on flair. Your comfort should always be a priority.
Tight Topknots
Tight topknots are often chosen for their neatness and functionality, yet they can be very demanding on the hair and scalp.
For women over 60, this style can lead to tension headaches and potential hair breakage if worn too often.
Instead, consider a looser topknot or an elegant twist that gives the same tidy appearance without the strain.
Allow your hair to rest and rejuvenate. Your hairstyle should be a reflection of ease, not an ongoing battle with stubborn strands.
Extensions and Weaves
Hair extensions and weaves can add length and volume, providing a dramatic change.
However, the maintenance is nothing short of a commitment, involving regular salon visits and meticulous care to prevent tangling and keep them looking natural.
For women over 60, this can become a tedious and expensive endeavor.
Embrace your natural hair with pride, and consider styles that enhance your inherent beauty without the added fuss. Life’s too vibrant to be tangled up in such commitments.
Color-Treated Styles
Color-treated styles can offer a fresh and vibrant look, yet they come with a host of responsibilities.
Frequent touch-ups, special shampoos, and careful styling are often needed to maintain the hue and shine. For mature women, this can be more trouble than it’s worth.
Consider embracing your natural color or opting for subtle highlights that require less frequent attention.
Sometimes, letting your natural beauty shine through can be the most empowering choice, freeing you from the cycle of constant maintenance.
Perms
Perms are known for adding curls and volume, transforming straight locks into lively waves.
But the chemicals involved can be harsh, leading to potential hair damage and requiring regular touch-ups to maintain the desired look.
For women over 60, this can be an exhausting routine that stresses both hair and patience.
Embrace your natural texture or consider gentle waves that don’t rely on chemicals. Your hair should celebrate your life, not complicate it.
Heavy Bangs
Heavy bangs can create a dramatic and fashionable look, but they often need frequent trims and meticulous styling to stay in place.
For older women, the constant attention to keep them from falling into the eyes can become tiresome.
Opt for side-swept bangs or softer fringes that require less maintenance and effortlessly frame your face.
Your hairstyle should highlight your features, not hide them behind a curtain of commitment. Let your natural beauty take center stage.
Sleek Straight Styles
Sleek straight styles are often desired for their polished and sophisticated appearance.
However, achieving this look usually demands heat styling tools, serums, and sprays, all of which can take a toll on the hair’s health over time.
Instead, embrace the natural texture and add subtle waves or curls that require less manipulation.
Your hair should be a testament to your natural beauty, not a constant battle with styling tools. Celebrate what makes you unique.
Permed Mullet
The permed mullet might evoke memories of bygone rockstars and bold fashion statements.
Yet, the upkeep of such a distinctive style can be quite demanding, requiring frequent perms and trims to maintain its unique shape.
For those over 60, this look can quickly become more nostalgic than practical.
Consider a modern layered cut or even a natural wave that allows for a contemporary twist on a classic look. Your style should reflect your present, not trap you in the past.
Bouffants
Bouffants are often associated with elegance and formal occasions, requiring teasing, hairsprays, and meticulous shaping to achieve.
For women over 60, maintaining this voluminous look can be labor-intensive and time-consuming.
Why not explore softer, fuller styles that don’t necessitate such rigorous upkeep?
A gentle lift at the roots or a touch of volume can complement your features without the fuss. Your hairstyle should be a delight, not a daily ordeal.
Afro Styles
Afro styles are bold and beautiful, celebrating natural curls and volume. However, they often require specific products, regular trimming, and careful maintenance to prevent tangling and maintain shape.
For older women, this can feel like a relentless routine.
Embrace a shorter, more manageable cut that still honors your natural texture.
A style that complements your lifestyle should be a source of joy, not frustration. Let your natural beauty flourish with ease and care.
Pompadours
Pompadours evoke a sense of classic glamour and bold style, often requiring styling tools, products, and frequent touch-ups to maintain their distinct shape.
For women over 60, this can quickly become a burdensome task.
Explore more relaxed styles that echo the pompadour’s essence without the exhaustive effort.
A gentle lift or a subtle quiff can provide the same flair with less hassle. Your hair should be your crowning glory, not a constant commitment.