9 Gorgeous Hair Colors for Women Over 60: Find Your Perfect Shade

If you’re thinking about refreshing your look with a brand new hair color, you’ve come to the right place.

No matter your age, changing up your hair color can be a wonderful way to uplift your spirits, showcase your personality, and just have a bit of fun.

It’s not all about covering up those pesky grays. It’s all about finding that perfect shade that not only looks fabulous on you but also feels like a true reflection of who you are at 60 and beyond.

Maybe you’re considering going a few shades lighter? Or you want to embrace the elegance of silver? Or maybe even add a splash of color you’ve never tried before- it’s not as challenging or overwhelming as you might think.

We’re here to help you express your unique style, your life experiences, and the person you’ve become over the years.

So let’s get inspired by the best, on-trend hair colors for over 60s that not only enhance your natural beauty but make you feel and look a younger and even more fabulous version of you!

Ready to find that hair color that makes you feel as vibrant on the outside as you do on the inside? Let’s get to it!

Picking the Perfect Palette

First off, choosing the right hair color over 60 is about more than new faddy color trends – it starts with understanding your skin’s undertone and finding a shade that feels authentically you. Here’s how to do that:

Understanding Your Skin’s Undertone

Warm undertones: Your skin has hints of peach, yellow, or golden. If you look best in gold jewelry or have veins that appear more greenish, you’re likely in the warm family. Hair colors that often work wonders for warm undertones include golden blondes, rich honey, and deep, warm browns.

Cool undertones: Your skin leans more towards pink, red, or bluish hues. Silver jewelry lights up your complexion, and your veins have a bluish tint. Cool-toned people shine in hair colors like ash blonde, cool browns, and deep burgundy.

Neutral undertones: You’re the chameleon of undertones, with a mix of warm and cool hues. Most hair colors will suit you, from the softest blondes to the richest browns. The world of hair color is your oyster!

Expert Insights

“I always remind my clients that the right hair color at any age isn’t about chasing youth or covering grays—it’s about celebrating your current beauty and finding a shade that really flatters you and makes you feel amazing.”

Enza Piazza, Hair Stylist & Color Consultant

Tips for Identifying Your Undertone

  1. The Jewelry Test: Do you look better in silver or gold jewelry? Silver suggests a cool undertone, while gold points to warm.
  2. The Vein Check: Look at the veins on the inside of your wrist. If they appear blue or purple, you’re cool-toned; if they’re greenish, you’re warm-toned.
  3. The White vs. Off-White Test: Which makes your skin glow more—pure white or off-white? If it’s pure white, you likely have cool undertones. If off-white is more flattering, you might have warm undertones.

Understanding your undertone isn’t just about making your hair color pop; it’s about ensuring your new shade works with your entire look, enhancing your natural beauty and bringing out the best in you.

Expert Insights

“There are so many choices of hair colour out there, and it can be difficult finding the right shade due to hair length, skin tone, etc. What looks good on one person won’t necessarily suit another, either.”

Penelope Jane Whiteley, Sixty and Me  
Best Hair Colors for Women Over 60 - hair color wheel showing skin tones matching to hair colors infographic
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9 Top Hair Color Ideas for Women Over 60

Choosing a new hair color is like picking out a new dress. You want one that fits just right, makes you feel great, and shows off your best features.

Here’s our handpicked selection of hair colors that are perfect for women who are proudly stepping into their 60s and beyond.

#1 Soft Golden Blonde

This warm, sunny blonde shade adds a youthful glow to your complexion. Best for warm skin tones with peach or golden undertones and green, hazel, or light brown eyes. This shade adds a youthful radiance, enhancing the warmth in your complexion.

#2 Caramel Brown Ombre

Caramel colors are perfect for those with medium to dark base colors looking to add warmth and dimension. Suited for a range of skin tones, particularly those with warm undertones, and complements brown or green eyes beautifully. It creates a seamless transition from darker roots to lighter ends, offering depth and a modern twist.

#3 Sophisticated Ash Blonde

For a cooler palette, ash blonde provides a modern twist with its muted hues. Ideal for cooler skin tones with pink or blue undertones, complementing blue, gray, or green eyes. It’s a stylish way to go light without the brassiness.

#4 Elegant Silver

Embrace the grace of aging with elegant silver. This on-trend salt and pepper gray color celebrates your natural journey and works beautifully with cooler skin tones, giving you a chic, sophisticated look. Perfect for those with naturally gray or silver hair looking to enhance it.

#5 Soft Honey Highlights

For a subtle refresh, soft honey highlights add warmth and dimension. They’re great for warming up darker base colors and perfect for those who prefer a low-maintenance update. Go for this look if you have medium to warm skin tones and brown, green, or hazel eyes.

#6 Classic Chestnut

A timeless option, chestnut offers a balanced blend of warm and cool tones, making it versatile for most skin types. It’s ideal for adding a hint of color without the need for frequent touch-ups. Go for this if you still have a lot of brunette coloring in your hair.

#7 Radiant Copper

If you’re looking for something more dramatic, bright, vibrant copper adds life to your look with its fiery tones. It’s especially flattering for those with fair, peachy, or golden skin tones, offering a warm, inviting glow.

#8 Chic Silver Highlights

Mixing silver highlights into your hair can transform your look into something uniquely you. It’s a bold move that adds texture and depth, ideal for embracing your natural grays with style. If you’re not ready to embrace a full head of silver, highlights are a gorgeous way to make the transition.

#9 Balayage for a Natural Look

Balayage hair creates a sun-kissed, natural-looking hair color with softer, less noticeable regrowth lines. It’s perfect for anyone seeking a low-maintenance style that flatters at every age.

Top Tips for Choosing Hair Color After 60

Avoid colors too dark for your skin as they may accentuate wrinkles and make regrowth noticeable.

Shy away from overly ashy tones that can wash out lighter complexions, instead, add warmth to brighten your look.

Bold colors are fun but choose softer shades to avoid overwhelming your face and consider the maintenance they require.

To combat brassy tones, use ash toner or purple shampoo for a fresher look.

Going too light or using excessive highlights can age you, so aim for balance and warmth with lowlights or golden tones.

Red hues can be aging if too intense; softer coppers or highlights offer a more natural appearance.

Choose sophistication over boldness, and make sure colors are blended well for a seamless, elegant look.

Expert Insights

“In terms of colour, I would always suggest a shade or two lighter if you want to take away the years. Most women will suit a lighter shade as they mature.”

Carolyn Newman, Leading hairdresser and UK Ambassador for Insight, a natural, vegan haircare brand.

How to Care For Hair Over 60

Maintaining your fabulous new hair color, especially after 60, means giving your hair the TLC it deserves. Here’s how to keep it looking vibrant and healthy:

  1. Stay Hydrated: Colored hair needs more moisture. Look for shampoos and conditioners infused with hydrating ingredients like argan oil or keratin. These will help keep your hair soft and shiny.
  2. Protect Your Color: Sun exposure can fade your hair color fast. Use hair products with UV protection or wear hats when you’re out in the sun to keep your color from fading.
  3. Cool It Down: Hot showers can strip away your color and natural oils, leading to dry, brittle hair. Wash your hair in lukewarm water instead, and finish with a cool rinse to seal the cuticles for extra shine.
  4. Regular Trims: Keep your hair looking fresh with regular trims. This helps prevent split ends and keeps your color looking sharp and even.
  5. Use Color-Safe Products: Invest in hair care products specifically designed for color-treated hair. These products help maintain your color and prevent fading.
  6. Deep Condition Weekly: A weekly deep conditioning treatment can work wonders, especially for dry or damaged hair. It helps restore moisture and keep your color looking vibrant.

Remember, your hair may have different needs as you age, so it’s all about finding the right products and routine that work for you and your lifestyle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will a new hair color look natural on me?

Choosing a shade that complements your skin tone and embracing natural-looking techniques like balayage can result in a beautifully natural appearance. It’s all about enhancing, not masking, your natural beauty.

Can hair color enhance my gray without covering it completely?

Yes! Techniques like highlighting or silver blending can enhance your gray hair, adding dimension and a modern, stylish edge.

What if my hair is thinning?

Lighter colors or subtle highlights can create the illusion of volume, while a skilled stylist can tailor your color and cut to make your hair appear fuller.

How often will I need touch-ups?

It depends on the technique and shades used. Root touch-ups for traditional colors might be needed every 4-6 weeks, while balayage or blending grays can extend the time between salon visits.

How can I protect my hair and keep the color vibrant?

Using products designed for color-treated hair, minimizing heat styling, and regular conditioning treatments will help maintain hair health and color vibrancy.

Parting Words

Finding the right hair color is a beautiful journey of self-expression and confidence, shining a light on your unique personality and style at any age.

Embracing a new shade or enhancing your natural tones can rejuvenate your look and uplift your spirit.

We always say that the best hair color for you is the one that makes you feel most like yourself, confident and beautiful. So, take this step as an opportunity to celebrate who you are, with every strand reflecting your inner beauty and strength!

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.