The 3 best haircuts for women over 40 to hide hair loss - 'create the effect of fullness and volume'

Hair expert, Richard Ward explains how to combat hair loss
GB NEWS
Anna Barry

By Anna Barry


Published: 22/04/2025

- 04:00

Most people notice some hair loss with age, but a tactical chop can provide instant coverage

Just like the skin, the hair undergoes age-related changes over time, with dryness, dullness, greying and hair loss recognised as some of the most common.

GB News spoke exclusively to an expert about what to do if you're losing your hair, from the most flattering haircuts to ask for to the damaging styles to avoid. The hair guru focused on women over 40 as they navigate this mature hair concern.


According to Stanimir Hristov, owner of London salon Your Hairdresser, hair loss/thinning is one of the "main concerns" for women over 40.

Indeed, the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) confirmed that "with age, most people notice some hair loss because hair growth slows".

Experts stated: "At some point, hair follicles stop growing hair, which causes the hair on our scalp to thin."

Middle-aged woman with a bob haircut

'You really want to focus on creating the effect of fullness and volume'

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For those who have noticed substantial thinning, a new haircut can provide a quick fix.

Stanimir said: "You really want to focus on creating the effect of fullness and volume.

"This means going for flattering styles such as blunt bobs, layered bobs and pixie cuts, which not only make the hair appear thicker, but add more dimension and liveliness."

Although a tactical hairstyle can work wonders when it comes to concealing hair loss, a new chop is not enough to combat the problem or prevent it from escalating.

This means that effective hair care practices, such as using the right shampoo and avoiding damaging hairstyles, are a must.

Stanimir warned that some popular updos can wreak havoc on a woman's locks. While your scraped-back ponytail may look chic, its long-term effects could be disastrous.

"Avoid tight ponytails and hairstyles, as they can reveal patches of scalp and put extra strain on the already fine, fragile hair," the expert advised.

Indeed, the AAD cautioned: "If you often wear your hair tightly pulled back, the continual pulling can lead to permanent hair loss. The medical name for this condition is traction alopecia."


As well as choosing gentle hairstyles - think loose braids and ponytails, or wearing your hair down -ladies should also perfect their brushing technique.

To prevent hair loss, Stanimir recommended "gentle" brushing using a boar bristle brush, explaining that these "detangle the hair effectively without pulling".

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Woman with pixie cut

Styles such as blunt bobs, layered bobs and pixie cuts make the hair appear 'thicker'

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"Other options include brushes with widely spaced, soft bristles and wide-tooth combs, as they provide optimal comfort," he added.

Losing your hair can be very disheartening, but there are many expert-approved ways to restore your locks to their former glory.

One woman who reversed her hair loss and grew back her receding hairline swore by one product for amazing results.

Aside from ageing, several factors can cause hair loss, including genetics, cancer treatment, childbirth, illness and other stressors, medication, hormonal imbalances, thyroid disease and more.

If you are concerned about hair loss, speak to your doctor, a dermatologist or a trichologist, who can provide tailored advice.