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7 Wash-and-Wear Haircuts for Women Over 60

By Sixty and Me October 13, 2023 Beauty

Age is just a number, and when it comes to style, women over 60 are rewriting the rules and embracing their unique beauty with confidence. One trend that is making a huge comeback is the wash-and-wear haircut, a liberating and effortlessly chic hairstyle that’s perfect for women looking to celebrate their natural beauty and make a statement with minimal effort.

  1. Embrace Your Natural Curls – The natural curly bob is an ideal wash-and-go choice, celebrating natural curls with minimal maintenance. Apply a curl-enhancing product and air-dry or use a diffuser for effortless styling.
  2. Pixie Cut – A pixie haircut is a highly convenient wash-and-go style due to its low maintenance, quick drying, and effortless styling capabilities. You can achieve a polished look with minimal effort using your fingers or a small amount of styling product.
  3. Work with Your Waves – Shoulder-length wavy hair offers easy maintenance by enhancing its natural allure without the need for excessive styling. It provides versatility for both casual and formal looks. This style combines natural beauty with practicality for an effortlessly chic appearance.
  4. Curtain Bangs – Soft side bangs elegantly enhance your facial features by drawing attention to your eyes and cheekbones, making them a flattering choice for various face shapes and style preferences. Their simplicity and minimal maintenance make them a hassle-free option that adds a touch of sophistication to your everyday look without requiring daily attention or styling commitment.
  5. Blunt Straight Hair – A blunt cut is ideal for thick, straight hair as it enhances the hair’s sleek appearance and minimizes the need for complex styling. It complements the hair’s natural thickness, offering a versatile, ageless look that suits various face shapes.
  6. Super Short – Super short hair is an excellent wash-and-go style, simplifying daily routines due to its minimal maintenance and quick drying time. It offers a practical and time-saving solution, sparing your hair from excessive heat styling.
  7. Bob with Bangs – The Cleopatra look for thin, straight hair offers a surprisingly practical and elegant wash-and-go style. Thin, straight hair’s inherent sleekness and quick drying time make it an ideal candidate for this low-maintenance yet regal hairstyle.

Let’s explore how to achieve the look and the empowering message a wash-and-wear hairstyle sends about embracing your age with grace and style. Say goodbye to hours in the salon chair and hello to carefree, fabulous hair at any age!

What Is a Wash-and-Wear Haircut

A wash-and-wear haircut, also known as a wash-and-go haircut, is a hairstyle designed to be low-maintenance and easy to style. This type of haircut is characterized by its simplicity and versatility, making it an ideal choice if you have a busy lifestyle or if you prefer a natural, effortless look.

The key feature of a wash-and-wear haircut is that it requires minimal styling and can be air-dried or towel-dried after washing, hence the name “wash-and-wear.” This eliminates the need for extensive blow-drying, curling, or straightening, making it a time-saving and hassle-free option for everyday styling.

Wash-and-wear haircuts often incorporate layers, texture, and a shape that complements the individual’s hair type and face shape. These elements allow the hair to fall into place naturally, enhancing its overall manageability and style.

Whether you have straight, wavy, or curly hair, a wash-and-wear haircut can be tailored to suit your specific needs and preferences. In other words, work with what you have and not against it.

Is a Wash-and-Wear Hairstyle Good for You?

Determining if a wash-and-wear hairstyle is a good fit for you involves considering several factors, including your hair type, lifestyle, personal preferences, and face shape. Here are some key steps to help you decide:

Assess Your Hair Type

Consider your hair’s natural texture and thickness. Wash-and-wear hairstyles are generally more suitable for individuals with hair that has some natural wave or texture. If you have extremely straight or fine hair, you might need extra styling or products to achieve the desired look.

Evaluate Your Lifestyle

Think about your daily routine and how much time you’re willing to dedicate to hair care. If you have a busy schedule and prefer a low-maintenance approach to hairstyling, a wash-and-wear haircut can be a great choice.

Consider Your Face Shape

Different hairstyles can complement various face shapes. Consult with a hairstylist to determine which wash-and-wear styles enhance your unique features. For example, layered cuts often work well for many face shapes, providing movement and framing the face nicely.

Maintenance Preferences

Reflect on your willingness to maintain your hairstyle regularly. While wash-and-wear haircuts are designed to be low-maintenance, they still require periodic trims to keep the shape and health of your hair intact.

Consult with a Professional

Schedule a consultation with a hairstylist experienced in wash-and-wear haircuts. They can assess your hair’s condition and provide expert advice on suitable styles based on your individual characteristics and needs.

Try It Out

If you’re uncertain about committing to a wash-and-wear haircut, you can ask your stylist for a slightly shorter version first to see how it feels and how much you like it. If you’re comfortable with the wash-and-wear approach, you can gradually go shorter and embrace the full benefits of the style.

Ultimately, the decision to choose a wash-and-wear hairstyle should align with your personal preferences and lifestyle. It’s important to have open communication with your hairstylist, as they can help tailor the style to suit your needs while considering the unique characteristics of your hair and face shape. Remember, the goal is to have a hairstyle that enhances your natural beauty and makes you feel confident and comfortable.

How to Achieve a Wash-and-Wear Style

Achieving a wash-and-wear hairstyle is all about selecting the right haircut and adopting a minimalistic styling routine.

Consult with a Hairstylist

Start by scheduling a consultation with a hairstylist experienced in wash-and-wear haircuts. They can assess your hair type, face shape, and lifestyle to recommend a suitable style. Consider bringing pictures of hairstyles you like for reference. Based on your consultation, select a haircut that aligns with your goals for a wash-and-wear style.

Use the Right Products

Invest in high-quality hair products to maintain your wash-and-wear style. Depending on your hair type, you might need a lightweight mousse or styling cream to enhance texture and hold. For added shine and control, consider using a serum or hair oil.

Wash and Condition

Start with a good quality, sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner suitable for your hair type. Overwashing can strip natural oils, so aim to wash your hair 2-3 times a week or as needed. Use a conditioner to keep your hair moisturized and manageable.

Air-Dry Your Hair

After washing, gently blot your hair with a towel to remove excess moisture. Microfiber towels are great for wash-and-go hair as they don’t excessively squeeze hair follicles.

Allow your hair to air-dry rather than using a hairdryer. This helps maintain your hair’s natural texture and reduces heat damage.

Bondi SPA Microfiber Hair Towel

Bondi SPA Microfiber Hair Towel

Style with Fingers

Once your hair is partially dry, apply a small amount of styling product to your hands and distribute it through your hair. Use your fingers to scrunch, tousle, or shape your hair as desired. Avoid overusing products to prevent a weighed-down appearance.

Regular Trims

To maintain the shape and health of your wash-and-wear haircut, schedule regular trims with your hairstylist. Trimming every 6-8 weeks can prevent split ends and keep your style looking fresh.

Embrace Bedhead

Don’t worry too much about achieving a perfect look. Part of the charm of wash-and-wear hairstyles is their relaxed and slightly tousled appearance. Embrace the “bedhead” look, and you’ll exude effortless chic.

Remember that wash-and-wear hairstyles are meant to simplify your daily routine, so don’t be too concerned about achieving a flawless look. Welcome your hair’s natural beauty and let your confidence shine through this effortlessly stylish choice.

Wash-and-Wear Haircuts

Say goodbye to the time-consuming hair rituals and hello to a fresh, stylish, and effortlessly chic look!

Embrace Your Natural Curls

Embrace Your Natural Curls

This haircut is an excellent choice if you want to embrace your natural curls while maintaining a manageable and sophisticated style.

A natural curly bob haircut is a stylish and versatile hairstyle for wash and go. This chic and timeless look typically features hair that falls above the shoulders, with curls that enhance volume and movement. The bob’s clean lines and well-defined curls create an elegant and effortless appearance.

It’s a hairstyle that exudes confidence and celebrates the beauty of your natural texture, offering a fresh and youthful appearance while requiring minimal daily maintenance.

Apply a curl-enhancing product and simply let dry or use a diffuser.

Marc Anthony Curl Defining & Enhancing Lotion, Strictly Curls

Marc Anthony Curl Defining & Enhancing Lotion, Strictly Curls

Go for a Pixie Cut

Go for a Pixie Cut

A pixie haircut is a fantastic wash-and-go style for several reasons. Its inherent low maintenance is a standout feature, requiring less time and effort for daily hair care routines due to its short length. The swift drying time after washing is another advantage, making it a hassle-free choice as you can opt for towel-drying or quick air-drying.

Pixie cuts offer effortless styling, allowing you to achieve a polished look with minimal intervention, either by using your fingers or applying a small amount of product for texture.

Joico Hair Shake Liquid-To-Powder Texturizing Finisher

Joico Hair Shake Liquid-To-Powder Texturizing Finisher

Work with Your Natural Waves

Work with Your Natural Waves

Shoulder-length wavy hair carries an innate allure that can be easily enhanced with minimal styling, eliminating the need for excessive heat tools or an arsenal of styling products. It offers the advantages of quicker drying times and reduced product usage while still providing enough length to experiment with various looks and styles.

Shoulder-length wavy hair offers versatility. You can wear it down for a relaxed, casual appearance or experiment with ponytails, braids, or buns for more formal or adventurous occasions.

This hairstyle’s beachy, relaxed vibe is universally appealing and ageless, making it suitable for women of all ages, including those over 60. It exudes a timeless charm that complements various face shapes and personal styles.

Shoulder-length wavy hair combines the beauty of natural waves with practicality, offering an effortlessly chic look that’s easy to maintain and style.

OUAI Wave Spray - Adds Texture, Body & Shine for Perfect, Effortless Beachy Waves

OUAI Wave Spray – Adds Texture, Body & Shine for Perfect, Effortless Beachy Waves

Adopt Soft Side Curtain Bangs

Adopt Soft Side Curtain Bangs

Soft side bangs, with their graceful framing of your face, have an innate ability to enhance your facial features naturally. They delicately draw attention to your eyes and cheekbones accentuating your best features and creating a flattering focal point. This elegant framing effect can work wonders, whether you’re aiming to highlight your eyes, downplay a high forehead, or add a touch of sophistication to your everyday look.

The beauty of soft side bangs lies in their simplicity. They require minimal styling and maintenance, making them an ideal choice if you are seeking a haircut that doesn’t demand daily attention. These bangs can be effortlessly blended into the rest of your hair, or you can sweep them to the side for a casual and natural appearance. This fuss-free styling means you can enjoy the elegance of side bangs without the time-consuming commitment that often comes with more demanding hairstyles.

Blunt Cut for Thick Straight Hair

Blunt Cut for Thick Straight Hair

Do you have thick straight hair? Thick, straight hair already boasts a sleek and refined appearance and a blunt cut accentuates this inherent elegance. The weight of the hair falls evenly, reducing the need for complex styling or excessive product usage. This simplicity is particularly advantageous for busy lifestyles, as it allows for quick and stress-free hair routines.

In addition, a blunt cut complements the natural thickness of straight hair, offering a chic, geometric shape that enhances the hair’s overall structure. This style is versatile and works well for various face shapes, providing a timeless and ageless appeal.

John Frieda Anti Frizz, Frizz-Ease Straight Fixation Styling Creme

John Frieda Anti Frizz, Frizz-Ease Straight Fixation Styling Creme

Go Super Short

Go Super Short

Super short hair is a fantastic choice for a wash-and-go style. With minimal hair to wash, dry, or style, this haircut eliminates the need for prolonged daily routines. This style offers a practical solution for women seeking convenience and simplicity in their hair care.

After washing, it can be towel-dried or air-dried in a matter of minutes, sparing you the use of heat styling tools. This not only saves time but also minimizes potential heat damage to your hair.

Shea Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner Set, Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Restore

Shea Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner Set, Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Restore

Cleopatra Look for Thin Straight Hair

Cleopatra Look for Thin Straight Hair

The Cleopatra look for thin, straight hair can be an unexpectedly practical and elegant wash-and-go style. While it may seem intricate, the simplicity of this hairstyle lies in its clean lines and minimal upkeep. Thin, straight hair is naturally sleek and requires less daily maintenance compared to other hair types, making it a great candidate for this wash-and-go look.

Thin hair also tends to dry more quickly, and its naturally straight texture means you can skip extensive styling routines, avoiding the use of heat tools and excessive product.

With little effort, you can embrace the regal charm of Cleopatra’s iconic look, showcasing your natural beauty while simplifying your daily hair routine.

COLOR WOW Dream Coat Supernatural Spray

COLOR WOW Dream Coat Supernatural Spray

Read 13 BEST LOW MAINTENANCE HAIRCUTS FOR WOMEN OVER 50.

Also read WHAT ARE THE BEST SHORT HAIRSTYLES FOR OLDER WOMEN? (VIDEO).

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Do you have a wash-and-go hairstyle? Which wash-and-wear style would you choose for yourself? How do you normally decide what hairstyle to go for? Tell us about it in the comments below.

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DONNA JOHNSTON

I like the hairstyles but am needing help with my dry looking, frizzy hair. In my youth it was naturally curly/wavy and was never oily but it really looks like straw these days. I am looking for a “product” to help with this.

Deborah

Great article!! Thank you for all the tips, and thank you for showing some long styles.

The Author

Sixty and Me is a community of over 500,000 women over 60 founded by Margaret Manning. Our editorial team publishes articles on lifestyle topics including fashion, dating, retirement and money.

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