Should you go darker or lighter with hair colour as you age?

There’s a lot of advice out there about what you should or shouldn’t do as you get older—especially when it comes to your hair. Some people say darker hair makes you look washed out, others say going lighter makes you look older. So what’s the deal? Should you go darker or lighter as you age?

The short answer is: it depends on your skin tone, maintenance routine, and what makes you feel most like you.

Let’s break it down with a little help from your local Solihull Hairdresser.

Why your skin tone matters more than your age

As we age, our skin tone often changes. It can lose some of its natural warmth and develop cooler or more neutral undertones. Because of that, the hair colour that suited you in your twenties might not work the same way in your fifties.

Going slightly lighter with your colour can soften the contrast between your hair and your skin. This is why many women go from rich brunettes to soft browns, honey blondes, or even warm coppers as they get older. These shades can add warmth to the face and soften features without needing a dramatic makeover.

That said, if you’ve always been dark and you love that richness, you don’t have to change just because someone said so. A skilled hairdresser in Solihull can adjust your tone slightly—adding a few lighter strands or softening the depth—without stripping your identity from your look.

The lowdown on lighter hair

Lighter hair can be very flattering, especially when it’s done well. It reflects more light, which often helps to give the face a brighter, more awake look.

Blondes and light browns also blend more gently with greys, meaning less contrast when those silver strands start popping up. This can be a great way to ease into embracing your natural colour if you’re not quite ready to go full grey just yet.

The one thing to keep in mind is upkeep. Lighter colours tend to need toning, and they’re more prone to looking brassy if not maintained with the right shampoo and treatments. So if you’re after something super low-maintenance, lighter might not always be the best choice—unless you’re happy with more of a soft balayage or face-framing lights that don’t need constant top-ups.

Why darker shades still have a place

There’s a myth that darker colours automatically make you look older. But when done well, darker hair can be incredibly flattering.

If your natural hair is dark, adding a little warmth or shine can make it look glossy and rich rather than flat or heavy. The trick is not going too harsh or too black—solid dark colours with no variation can be more ageing, particularly if they create a strong contrast with pale skin.

Instead, ask your Solihull Hairdresser about working with your base colour and layering in tone. Think espresso with caramel lowlights, or dark chocolate with a subtle mahogany glaze. This kind of dimension keeps dark hair fresh and flattering without it feeling too heavy or stark.

So, should you go lighter or darker?

There’s no rulebook that says you have to go lighter or darker based on your age. What matters most is how your hair complements your skin tone, your lifestyle, and how you feel when you look in the mirror.

If you’re unsure, a consultation with a professional hairdresser in Solihull can help you figure out what tones will bring out your best features. Maybe it’s not about going drastically lighter or darker—but just tweaking what you already have to better suit where you are in life.

At Salon No. 100, we never push trends or hard-and-fast rules. We look at you—your skin, your eyes, your preferences—and help you find a colour that works for you. Whether you want to embrace your grey, blend it gently, or go for something totally fresh, we’ll walk you through it with zero pressure.

For the best Solihull hairdresser, look no further than Salon No. 100! We’ve gathered hundreds of five-star reviews over the past few years. Call 07966 105306 and book your appointment today!