Not every hairstyle works in your favour. Some can unintentionally age you. Whether you’re in your 30s, 40s, or 50s, choosing the wrong cut can add unnecessary years to your appearance. And while a mature look has its charm, no one wants to look tired or outdated because of their hairstyle.
In this guide, we’re breaking down 10 common hairstyles that can make men look older than they are and what to consider instead. From poor choices in length and texture to outdated trends, these are the styles to avoid if you’re aiming for a sharp, modern image.
1. The Combover
Let’s start with the obvious. The combover is one of the most dated hairstyles still hanging around. It’s often used to hide thinning hair, but the attempt is usually more noticeable than the hair loss itself. Instead of hiding hair loss, embrace a cleaner cut like a cropped buzz or close fade that gives you a confident, intentional look.
Picture Credit: https://www.businessinsider.com/never-try-a-combover-2017-2
If you’re unsure how to approach thinning hair, talk to a barber who knows this type of haircut and can guide you toward styles that flatter rather than cover up.
2. Flat, Lifeless Long Hair
Long hair can be stylish, but only if it’s maintained. Flat, shapeless, or stringy long hair with no texture or movement tends to drag the face down, making men look tired and older. Add some layers, texture, or wave to create movement, or go for a mid-length style that gives you more structure.
Picture Credit: https://www.mensjournal.com/health-fitness/the-best-long-hairstyles-for-men-20140522
3. Too Much Gel or Product
Overusing styling products, especially stiff gels, can create a “helmet head” look that screams early 2000s. Not only does it look outdated, but it also adds a harsh, rigid effect to your overall appearance. A more modern, matte product like a clay or paste provides hold with a natural finish.
Picture Credit: https://www.beardbeasts.com/blogs/news/hairstyles-for-older-men
For advice tailored to your hair type, ask a barber who is experienced in cutting hair with this issue. They’ll guide you toward products that suit your texture and style.
4. The Deep Side Part
A deep side part was once a classic gentleman’s style. But if it’s paired with overly slicked-back sides and a rigid shape, it can appear too formal, making you look older than intended. A more natural part or a loose textured look can modernize the effect while still keeping a mature vibe.
Picture Credit: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/457115430946066327/
5. Mullet or Rat Tail Styles
Yes, some retro trends are making a comeback. But mullets and rat tails are rarely flattering unless you’re fully committing to a unique, fashion-forward style. Most of the time, they read as out of date and can make you look behind the times.
Picture Credit: https://therighthairstyles.com/rat-tail-hair/
6. Flat Crew Cuts With No Fade
A short crew cut with no taper or fade can make the head look blocky and older, especially if you’ve got fine or thinning hair. Adding a fade or some contrast in length helps give a modern, youthful edge. You can get a pony haircut for men in Kitchener that includes a tight fade and styled top tailored to your hairline and face shape.
Picture Credit: https://www.latest-hairstyles.com/mens/hairstyles-for-grey-hair-men.html
7. Bowl Cuts or Mushroom Cuts
Unless you’re aiming for a quirky retro aesthetic, the bowl cut is generally best left in childhood. It shortens the face and flattens your profile, giving an awkward, immature contrast that oddly makes adult men look older. Choose a layered, tapered cut with volume at the crown instead.
Picture Credit: https://manofmany.com/style/hairstyles-grooming/best-bowl-cut-hairstyles-for-men
8. Excessively Bleached or Unnatural Colours
Colouring your hair is a great way to try something new, but over-bleached or harsh unnatural colours can highlight age-related changes in your skin or hairline. If you’re going grey, you’re often better off blending it naturally or going for a salt-and-pepper look rather than fighting it.
Picture Credit: https://www.gq.com/story/biggest-bleach-blond-hair-mistakes
9. Outdated Pompadours
A classic pompadour can look sharp when done right. But when styled too high or too stiff, it can feel more like a time capsule than a modern look. If you’re going for this style, update it with a looser, more textured approach. That way, you get the volume without the vintage stiffness.
Picture Credit: https://manforhimself.com/mens-hairstyles/nick-wooster-grey-pompadour/
10. Unkempt Beards With Unstyled Hair
This isn’t a hairstyle per se, but your hair and beard work together. An untidy beard paired with an unstyled or grown-out haircut can make you look much older and more tired than you are. Keep both well-groomed, and balance the length and density to suit your jawline.
Picture Credit: https://wellgroomedgentleman.com/the-gents-journal/hairstyles-men-over-40/
Choose a Style That Works With You, Not Against You
Your haircut should complement your face shape, hair texture, and lifestyle, not work against them. A well-chosen hairstyle can sharpen your features, boost your confidence, and even make you appear more youthful.
The trick is to avoid outdated, overly stiff, or shapeless styles and focus on modern, well-executed cuts with texture and personality. Not sure what suits you best? Book with a barber who knows this type of haircut and get a cut that brings out your best features, not your birth year.
Whether you’re in Kitchener or anywhere across Southwest Ontario, make sure your style keeps up with you and not the other way around.