As women mature and reach their 50s, they may consider changing up their hair color. Some wonder if lighter shades like ash blonde are flattering and age-appropriate for this stage of life. The good news is that with the right styling and care, ash blonde hair can look gorgeous on women over 50.
The Appeal of Ash Blonde for Mature Women
There are several reasons why ash blonde is a popular choice for women over 50:
- It can brighten the complexion and minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
- Ash blonde tends to be a “cooler” shade that flatters skin with pink, red or blue undertones.
- It creates a soft, natural look compared to platinum or icy tones.
- When done correctly, ash blonde gives hair dimension and depth.
- It reflects light nicely and can add luminosity around the face.
The key is choosing the right level and tone of ash blonde to complement your complexion. Going too light or ash can wash you out, while too warm of a tone can make hair look brassy.
Best Ash Blonde Shades for Women Over 50
Here are some of the most flattering ash blonde shades to consider after 50:
- Beige blonde – A touch of beige keeps the ash tone soft and warm. This works well for light skin with yellow undertones.
- Mushroom blonde – A neutral blonde with an ash brown base. Provides a modern look that flatters those with fair cool skin.
- Sandy blonde – Has a warm, beachy vibe. Best for those with medium to olive skin tones.
- Ash brown blonde – Darker base blended with light ash blonde highlights. Excellent choice for darker complexions.
- Rose gold blonde – Subtle mix of ash, gold and rose tones. Flatters those with medium skin and neutral undertones.
Talk to your colorist about customizing your ash blonde to best complement your skin tone, eye color and overall aesthetic.
How to Maintain Ash Blonde Hair Over 50
Ash blonde hair requires regular maintenance to keep brassiness and warmth at bay. Here are some tips:
- Use a purple shampoo once or twice a week. This helps neutralize yellow tones.
- Opt for an ash or silver toner as needed. Toner removes warmth and keeps color icy.
- Protect hair from sun exposure which can intensify brassiness.
- Rinse with cold water and use sulfate-free shampoo to prevent fading.
- Get a gloss treatment every 4-6 weeks to keep color crisp and bright.
- Use a moisturizing mask to prevent dryness which ash tones can cause.
- Get a trim every 6-8 weeks to remove dry ends and maintain condition.
Ash Blonde Styles for Women Over 50
In addition to choosing the right shade, the cut and style of your ash blonde hair can influence how it looks. Here are some of the most popular and flattering options:
Short Ash Blonde Pixie
A pixie cut with ash blonde coloring is a great option for emphasizing your features. It brings out your eyes, brightens your complexion and slims the face. It’s also easy maintenance and can be very liberating.
Shoulder Length Ash Blonde Layers
Long layers around the shoulder frame the face beautifully. They give movement and bounce while allowing you to still pull hair back. The ash tone keeps the look soft and sophisticated.
Ash Blonde Bob
A chin or shoulder-length ash blonde bob projects poise and polish. Tousled waves give an effortless vibe, while sleek straightness exudes class and elegance. Bobs are versatile and easy to style.
Ash Blonde Balayage
Hand-painted ash blonde highlights on a darker base adds dimension. By lightening up around the face, balayage creates a luminous, youthful look. The root shadow prevents harsh regrowth lines.
Expert Tips for Ash Blonde Hair Over 50
Thinking of taking the plunge to ash blonde? Consider these pro tips first:
- Get input from an experienced stylist who specializes in color for mature women.
- Start subtle – go progressively lighter over multiple sessions to find your perfect tone.
- Prep hair with a filler gloss first to ensure even saturation of color.
- Use Olaplex or similar bonding treatments to prevent damage during the lightening process.
- Opt for balayage or babylights over full highlights to create a softer, blended look.
- Use a moisturizing hair mask weekly and limit heat styling to keep hair healthy.
- Enhance your look with arched brows and peach blush that complements ash tones.
Finding an Ash Blonde Colorist
The key to beautiful ash blonde hair over 50 is finding an experienced colorist you can trust. Here’s what to look for:
- A stylist who specializes in color and lightening techniques.
- Experience working with mature hair textures and concerns.
- An eye for choosing shades that complement your complexion.
- Uses high quality toner to keep ash tones crisp.
- Focuses on healthy hair – won’t overprocess or damage.
- Stays current on the latest color and styling trends.
Ask friends for referrals, look at online reviews and photos of the colorist’s work, and make sure you communicate your hair goals and expectations clearly. Be open about any hair challenges or sensitivities. With the right stylist, ash blonde hair over 50 can be stunning.
Ash Blonde Hair Conclusion
Ash blonde hair can be extremely flattering for women over 50 when done correctly. The right tone brightens the complexion, adds dimension and creates a sophisticated look. While maintenance is required to counter brassiness, the versatility and softness of ash blonde is worth the effort. Consult with an experienced colorist and choose a shade, cut and style that celebrates your natural beauty.
