12 Youthful Hair Color Trends for Women Over 40 [2024 Edit]

Are you a fabulous woman over 40 looking for a fresh hair color update? Looking for something that brightens up your face, updates your look and makes you feel like a whole new woman?

You’re in the right place. As 2024 rolls in, it’s not just about changing your hair color; it’s about choosing the right shade that complements your unique style and life.

This year is all about exciting hair color trends that blend effortless chic with easy upkeep. Whether you’re looking to make a bold statement or prefer something more understated, we’ve got you covered.

So, let’s explore these vibrant trends and find the perfect match for your vibrant personality!

hair color for women over 40 - three women with black, blonde and purple hair color
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Top Hair Color Trends For Women Over 40

From the daringly bold to the subtly elegant, these hair color trends are specially curated for the fabulous women over 40.

Each one offers a unique way to express your personality and style. So, let’s get ready to explore these vibrant and stunning hair color options that are perfect for adding a fresh and exciting twist to your look!

#1 Platinum Pixie

hair color for women over 40 Platinum pixie hair color
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@short_hair_sweethearts

This year, the Platinum Pixie cut makes a fearless comeback, perfect for the woman who loves to stand out. It’s bold, it’s bright, and it radiates confidence.

Think of it as a way to shine, turning heads wherever you go. Seen in Latest Hairstyles, this style is not just a color choice for the over 40’s; it’s a power statement.

#2 Midnight Blue

hair color for women over 40 Midnight Blue hair color
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@therealmelissab

As noted by L’Oreal Paris, Midnight Blue is the new black. It’s a deep, rich blue that’s both mysterious and utterly chic. If you’re looking to add a touch of drama to your look without going over the top, this is your go-to shade.

It’s perfect for adding depth to your style and works brilliantly with both straight and wavy hair. This works best if you have cool skin tones.

#3 Soft Copper Balayage

hair color for women over 40 Soft Copper Balayage hair color
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@ponte_catrina_

For those who adore a more natural look, 2024 welcomes the soft copper balayage.

This trend, highlighted by Southern Living, is all about subtle warmth that adds a sun-kissed glow to your hair. It’s low-maintenance and perfect for making yoru look younger while adding a gentle sparkle to your everyday look.

#4 Nutty Brown Curls

hair color for women over 40 Nutty Brown Curls hair color
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@zeebasalonspa

Embrace the beauty of earthy tones with nutty brown curls. This color, reminiscent of rich, warm soil, brings a sense of grounded elegance.

It’s ideal for women who have curly hair and want to enhance their natural texture while keeping things simple yet stylish.

#5 Warm Auburn

hair color for women over 40 warm auburn hair color
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@hair_by_rachaelb

There’s something timelessly elegant about a warm auburn shade. It’s a classic color that never goes out of style, especially for women over 40 who prefer a sophisticated look.

This rich, deep red hue adds warmth to your complexion and works wonderfully across all skin tones. It’s perfect for those who want to add depth and richness to their hair without going too bold.

#6 Blonde Ginger Balayage

hair color for women over 40 Blonde Ginger Balayage hair color
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@hairbyaverylynns

The blonde ginger balayage is a modern twist on a classic blonde. As Hair Adviser reports, this style blends soft blonde hues with gentle ginger undertones, creating a seamless and natural-looking gradient.

This technique is ideal for adding dimension and movement to your hair, making it a great choice for those who want a stylish yet understated look.

#7 Smokey Lavender Dream

hair color for women over 40 Smokey Lavender Dream hair color
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@littlelionsalon

For the woman who loves to stand out, 2024 brings the enchanting Lavender Dream. This hue is a delightful blend of purple and soft pink, offering a whimsical yet sophisticated touch to your look.

We love it for blending seamlessly with gray and silver hair for a smokey effect – perfect for those ready to make a bold yet graceful statement.

#8 Iridescent Lilac

hair color for women over 40 Iridescent Lilac hair color
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@rachdoesbalayage

Another trend that adds a pop of color to gray or white hair is Iridescent Lilac. This cool, ethereal shade adds a touch of sophistication with its muted lilac tones.

It’s chic, contemporary, and perfect for those who want a subtle yet distinctive look. This cool color works beautifully with both straight and wavy hairstyles, adding a unique flair that’s both modern and stylish.

Expert Insights

“I love using pastel shades to bring gray or silver hair to life. It’s relatively low maintenance and looks good on all skin tones too.”

Enza Piazza, Hair Stylist and Color Consultant

#9 Caramel Blonde Balayage

hair color for women over 40 Caramel Blonde Balayage hair color
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@jessicascotthair

This delightful trend combines the richness of caramel with the brightness of blonde balayage highlights. It’s a perfect choice for those who love a touch of warmth in their hair.

Real Simple tells us that Caramel Blonde is not just a color, it’s an experience of depth and sophistication, ideal for adding a sweet twist to your look.

#10 Velvet Red Infusion

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@allnutrient

For a more understated yet unique color, consider Velvet Red Infusion. This muted and sophisticated red blends deep, rich red tones with a hint of velvety luxury.

It’s perfect for women who want to step outside the box, offering a modern twist on natural hues.

Expert Insights

“A rich red, such as auburn or copper, will enhance brunettes and redheads. This gives the appearance of younger and more radiant skin by reflecting light around the face with its warm tint.”

Jennifer Korab, Celebrity Stylist

#11 Toasted Honey Brown

hair color for women over 40 Toasted Honey Brown hair color
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@l_shear_hairsalon

Embrace the allure of Toasted Honey Brown, a warm blend of honey tones with subtle brunette undertones. This color is all about adding dimension and a sun-kissed effect to your hair.

She Finds recommends this color for the over 40s as it’s versatile, flattering across various skin tones, and perfect for those who want a balance between bold and natural.

#12 Dusty Rose Gold

hair color for women over 40 Dusty Rose Gold hair color
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@stylebylizette

Lastly, Rose Gold Dust offers a soft, feminine option combining gentle rose tones with a subtle dusty twist. It’s a romantic, elegant hue that works beautifully for adding a delicate, refined touch to your style.

Davines.com says that this color is particularly flattering for women over 40, offering a chic and timeless look.

Which Hair Color Suits You?

How to Choose the Right Hair Color If You’re Over 40

Selecting the perfect hair color, especially for the fabulous over-40 crowd, is about balancing personal style with what complements your natural features. Here are some tips to help you make the best choice:

Consider Your Skin Tone

Your skin tone plays a crucial role in determining which hair color will look best on you.

Warmer skin tones tend to glow with shades like honeyed plum or warm auburn, while cooler skin tones can be beautifully enhanced by colors like iridescent lilac or velvet pine infusion.

Think About Maintenance

If you’re someone who prefers a low-maintenance hair routine, opt for colors that grow out gracefully, like soft copper balayage or nutty brown curls.

These choices offer a more natural look and require less frequent touch-ups.

Reflect on Your Lifestyle

Your hair color should fit seamlessly into your lifestyle. If you’re active and outdoorsy, sun-kissed, natural hues might be a perfect match.

For those who enjoy a more polished look, sophisticated shades like rose gold dust or caramel brown could be ideal.

Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment

Remember, hair color isn’t permanent. Feel free to experiment with different shades.

Temporary dyes or semi-permanent colors like lavender or lilac can be a great way to try out a bold new look without long-term commitment.

Seek Professional Advice

A professional stylist can provide personalized advice based on your hair type, skin tone, and lifestyle.

They can also help you understand the latest trends and how to adapt them to suit your unique look.

Embrace Your Age

Your hair color should make you feel confident and beautiful. Embrace your age with colors that highlight your best features. Remember, the right shade can illuminate your complexion and showcase your personality.

hair color for women over 40 woman with blonde highlights
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The Power of Highlights and Lowlights

You don’t always need a complete hair color overhaul to refresh your look. Highlights and lowlights can be just the right touch:

  • Highlights for a Brighter Look: Adding highlights can subtly lift your overall appearance. They bring a lighter tone to your hair, which can help frame and illuminate your face. This subtle change can make a significant difference, giving you a refreshed and rejuvenated look.
  • Lowlights for Depth: If your hair feels flat, like it’s missing something, lowlights can add that needed depth. They are darker sections that blend in with your natural hair color, creating a sense of fullness and richness without overwhelming your look.
  • Keeping It Simple: The beauty of highlights and lowlights is in their simplicity. You don’t need to commit to a new hair color; these small changes can enhance your natural color and texture, making your hair look vibrant and healthy.
  • Youthful and Natural: Both highlights and lowlights can help in creating a more youthful appearance. They add variety and contrast to your hair, which can help mask signs of aging like gray strands or thinning areas.

This approach is perfect if you’re looking for a change that’s noticeable but not too drastic. It’s about enhancing your natural beauty in a way that’s easy to maintain and feels comfortably you.

Maintenance Tips for Colored Hair

Keeping your newly colored hair looking its best is crucial. Here are some tips to help you maintain that vibrant color and healthy shine:

Use Color-Safe Products: Invest in shampoos and conditioners specifically designed for color-treated hair. These products are formulated to gently cleanse without stripping color, helping to prolong the vibrancy of your hair color.

Avoid Hot Water: As relaxing as a hot shower can be, it’s not the best for your colored hair! Hot water can open up the hair cuticle and lead to color fading. Instead, opt for lukewarm water to keep your color intact for longer.

Protect Your Hair from the Sun: Just like your skin, your hair needs protection from the sun. UV rays can cause hair color to fade and become brassy. Use hair products with UV protection or wear hats when spending extended time outdoors.

Limit Heat Styling: Regular use of blow dryers, straighteners, or curling irons can damage colored hair. When heat styling is necessary, use a heat protectant spray and keep the temperature on the lower side.

Deep Conditioning Treatments: Colored hair benefits greatly from regular deep conditioning treatments. These treatments help to replenish moisture and keep your hair looking healthy and shiny.

Trim Regularly: Regular trims are essential to maintain the health of your hair. Trimming helps prevent split ends, which can be more noticeable in colored hair.

Avoid Chlorine: Chlorine can wreak havoc on colored hair, leading to dryness and color changes. Wear a swim cap or apply a leave-in conditioner before swimming to protect your hair.

Professional Touch-Ups: Regular visits to your stylist for touch-ups can help maintain the vibrancy and health of your color. They can also advise on any adjustments to your hair care routine.

Remember, maintaining colored hair doesn’t have to be a chore. With the right products and care, you can enjoy your beautiful color for longer while keeping your hair healthy and strong.

Parting Words

In 2024, the hair color trends for women over 40 are all about enhancing natural beauty and confidently covering grays.

Whether it’s through rich, warm shades like Auburn or Honeyed Plum, or the subtle lift from highlights and lowlights, these trends offer both style and grace.

Remember, it’s not just about looking younger; it’s about feeling confident and radiant in your own skin.

Choose a color that speaks to you and step into this year feeling fabulous and empowered. Here’s to embracing your unique beauty at every age!

Found your perfect shade? We’d love to see it! Tag us on Instagram @colouredhaircare or Facebook and share your hair dye success stories. Looking for more hair care tips? Check out How to Look After Colored Hair: 11 Expert Secrets For Long-Lasting Color.

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Our Research & Review Process

To ensure our recommendations are as comprehensive and reliable as possible, we’ve undertaken an extensive research effort.

We cite scientific evidence and journals, collect real user reviews and gather impartial perspectives from hair stylists, users, and experts in the field.

Additionally, we conduct hands-on testing by using products and applying hair dyes not only on our own locks but also on real human hair extensions and hair pieces of different hair type, textures and lengths.

This rigorous approach allows us to provide you with insights into which products genuinely live up to their promises.

As always – please consult with a professional hair colorist or stylist for advice on how to color your own hair at home. It’s different for everyone!

This article was written and reviewed by:

  • Nicola Freeman, Creative Director & Content Lead
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    Creative Director & Content Lead

    With over two decades of passionate hair dyeing experience, I've experimented with nearly every shade imaginable. My journey began long before blogging; as an award-winning copywriter in London and New York, I shaped narratives for iconic brands. However, when friends sought advice during lockdown for at-home hair dyeing, I realized my true calling. Beyond being your hair color expert, I'm a mom of two girls, wife to artist Tony, and an avid soccer player!

  • Enza Piazza, Hair Stylist & Color Consultant
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    Hair Stylist & Color Consultant

    I’m Enza Piazza, your go-to hair stylist and color consultant with over 23 years of professional salon experience bringing vibrancy and life to hair of all hues. My Italian roots from sunny Sicily infuse passion into every snip and color, a passion that’s been recognized with top honor awards including bridal and party hair at the National Hairdressers Federation’s Championships. After training in Surrey, UK’s most prestigious salons including Head Master Academy, I embraced the entrepreneurial spirit and set up Enza Hair Styling, offering tailored hair care for 13 years, and treating each client like family. Away from the salon, I cherish moments as a proud Nonna to grandson Joseph and as a playful companion to my Jack Russell, Bo.