Short Hairstyles for Older Women with Thick Hair

As we age, our hair changes, but that doesn’t mean we have to compromise on style. Short hairstyles can be both chic and manageable, especially for women with thick hair. Here are some flattering and easy-to-maintain short hairstyles perfect for older women.

Short Hairstyles for Thick Hair

The Pixie Cut

The pixie cut is a timeless favorite that exudes confidence and elegance. Its short length highlights facial features and adds a youthful vibe. This style can be layered for those with thick hair to reduce bulk and enhance texture. 

You can experiment with different lengths and textures within the pixie cut to find the most flattering look. Adding side-swept bangs or a longer fringe can soften the face and add a touch of femininity.

Perfect for: Women seeking a low-maintenance yet stylish look that brings out their best features.

Styling Tips:

  • Use a Texturizing Spray: This helps to add definition and separation to the layers.
  • Try a Matte Pomade: It can give your hair a piecey, lived-in look without adding too much shine.
  • Play with Parting: Change your part from side to middle to create different looks.
OUAI Matte Hair Pomade

OUAI Matte Hair Pomade

The Bob

The bob is a versatile classic that never goes out of fashion. Whether you opt for a chin-length or slightly longer cut, the bob can be tailored to suit your face shape. 

For thick hair, a textured bob with layers can add movement and prevent the hair from looking too heavy. You can also try an angled bob, where the hair is shorter at the back and gradually gets longer towards the front, creating a stylish and modern silhouette.

Perfect for: Those who want a sophisticated and easy-to-style haircut.

Styling Tips:

  • Blow-Dry with a Round Brush: This helps to create volume at the roots and smooth out the ends.
  • Use a Flat Iron for Sleekness: For a polished look, use a flat iron to straighten the hair.
  • Add Waves: Use a curling iron or flat iron to create loose waves for a more casual, textured look.
Conair Double Ceramic Flat Iron

Conair Double Ceramic Flat Iron

The Shag

The shag haircut is all about layers and texture, making it ideal for thick hair. This style offers a relaxed, modern look that can be customized with bangs or varied lengths to suit individual preferences. 

The layers in a shag cut help to remove excess weight from the hair, creating a light and airy feel. It also works well with natural curls and waves, complementing the hair’s natural texture.

Perfect for: Women looking for a fun, youthful style with plenty of volume and movement.

Styling Tips:

  • Use a Diffuser: If you have naturally curly or wavy hair, use a diffuser attachment on your blow dryer to enhance your natural texture.
  • Apply a Sea Salt Spray: This adds texture and gives your hair a beachy, tousled look.
  • Scrunch Your Hair: After applying styling products, scrunch your hair with your hands to enhance the layers and create more volume.
Sea Salt Spray for Hair

Sea Salt Spray for Hair

The Asymmetrical Cut

An asymmetrical cut provides an edgy and contemporary look. One side is longer than the other, creating a stylish contrast that works well with thick hair. 

This cut can be dramatic or subtle, depending on your personal taste. It’s a great way to add interest to your hairstyle without sacrificing too much length.

Perfect for: Those who enjoy bold, fashion-forward hairstyles.

Styling Tips:

  • Smooth Out with a Flat Iron: To highlight the asymmetry, use a flat iron to create a sleek finish.
  • Add Volume to the Roots: Use a volumizing mousse at the roots to lift the hair and enhance the contrast between the lengths.
  • Play with Colors: Consider adding highlights or lowlights to emphasize the asymmetry and add dimension.
L'Oreal Paris Hair Care Advanced Hairstyle Boost It Volume Inject Mousse

L’Oreal Paris Hair Care Advanced Hairstyle Boost It Volume Inject Mousse

The Layered Cut

A layered cut is a fantastic way to manage thick hair. Layers reduce weight and add texture, making the hair easier to style. This cut can be tailored to various lengths and shapes, offering flexibility to find the perfect fit. Long layers can create a soft, blended look, while shorter layers can add more definition and movement.

Perfect for: Women who want a customizable and practical haircut.

Styling Tips:

  • Use a Lightweight Mousse: This helps to add volume without weighing down the hair.
  • Blow-Dry with a Diffuser: To enhance natural waves and curls, use a diffuser when blow-drying.
  • Layered Blowout: Use a round brush to blow-dry each layer for a smooth, voluminous finish.
REVLON Turbo Hair Dryer

REVLON Turbo Hair Dryer

The Classic Crop

The classic crop is a short, neat cut that is easy to maintain and style. This cut is close to the head and can be worn with a bit of texture or sleek and smooth. It’s a great option for those who prefer a no-fuss hairstyle that still looks polished.

Perfect for: Women who prefer a minimalist and elegant look.

Styling Tips:

  • Use a Styling Cream: To add a bit of texture and hold, apply a small amount of styling cream.
  • Keep It Simple: Embrace the simplicity of this cut with minimal styling. A quick blow-dry or air-drying works well.
  • Add Shine: Use a shine spray to give your hair a healthy, glossy finish.
GIOVANNI Shine of the Times Finishing High-Gloss Hair Mist

GIOVANNI Shine of the Times Finishing High-Gloss Hair Mist

The Tapered Cut

The tapered cut features short sides and back with a bit more length on top. This style is chic and sophisticated, offering a modern twist on traditional short hairstyles. The longer top can be styled in various ways, from sleek and smooth to tousled and textured.

Perfect for: Women who want a stylish, contemporary look with a bit of edge.

Styling Tips:

  • Blow-Dry Upwards: To add volume to the top, blow-dry your hair upwards.
  • Use a Pomade: For a defined look, use a pomade to shape and hold the style.
  • Experiment with Length: Play with the length on top to find the most flattering look for your face shape.
Cantu Hair Dressing Pomade with Shea Butter

Cantu Hair Dressing Pomade with Shea Butter

Styling Tips for Short Thick Hair

Use Lightweight Products

Opt for lightweight mousses and sprays to avoid weighing down your hair.

Regular Trims

Keep your hairstyle fresh with regular trims every 6-8 weeks.

Embrace Texture

Enhance your natural texture with texturizing sprays or sea salt sprays.

Experiment with Accessories

Use clips, headbands, and scarves to add a personal touch to your style.

Protect Your Hair

Use heat protectants when styling with hot tools to prevent damage.

OUAI Leave-In Conditioner & Heat Protectant Spray

OUAI Leave-In Conditioner & Heat Protectant Spray

Moisturize

Keep your hair hydrated with leave-in conditioners or hair oils, especially if you color your hair.

Short hairstyles for older women with thick hair offer a range of stylish and manageable options. Whether you prefer something classic like the bob or a bit more daring like the asymmetrical cut, there’s a perfect style to match your personality and lifestyle. Embrace your thick hair and enjoy the ease and elegance of a short haircut.

Let’s Talk Hair:

Do you have thick hair? Do you wear it long or short? What products do you like to use on your thick hair? Tell us about it in the comments below.