7 of the best haircuts for women over 40, according to a hairstylist.

A couple of weeks ago I had my very long hair cut off to a bob.

I had been toying with this idea on and off for years but I never had the courage to just cut it. However, as the days got warmer and change was in the air, I decided it was time. I took my Instagram 'inspo' album of cute celebrity lobs and bobs to my hairdresser Jarrod in Newcastle, and he chopped and styled it with glee.

I felt instantly lighter and fresher, and I had so many comments that I 'looked younger', which was not my intention or wish, but let's be honest, it felt good. Even if I did ruminate on the fact my long hair must have made me 'look old'.

Watch: Laura Jackel's big chop from long to a bob. Post continues below.

At 44, I have been through a few styles, colours and cuts in my time, but I've kept it long for the last decade.

When my kids were little, the idea of maintaining a style was a bit too much like work, so the long hair piled up in a top-knot served me well for many years of rushing out the door to daycare and school drop-offs.

During my late teens and early 20s, I loved experimenting: I had the Natalie Imbruglia crop, the Ginger Spice blonde stripes and the blunt Gwen Stefani fringe (all complete with skinny Y2K eyebrows). 

I veered from bad bottle blonde to deep brunette, and then sometime in my late 20s and 30s, when my budget grew and my hair needed to be more responsible, I began to play it safe.

My long hair with good 'natural' colour was a source of pride and the more years that went by, the harder it was to make a big change.

Until last month. 

Now I can't wait to go even shorter on my next salon visit. Or maybe I'll grow it long again. Either way, I am just happy to have had a change and found some joy in my hair again.

For Kirby Lago, National Kerasilk Ambassador and owner of Pelo by Lago hair salon in Sydney, most over-40s women who visit want a chic but easy-to-maintain hairstyle.

"Most women want a low-maintenance, effortless hairstyle that enhances their natural beauty with ease," Kirby tells Mamamia.

"For colour, our clients generally want a lived-in colour, highlighting and drawing any grey hairs out to blend in softly, accentuating their natural colour."

How can we look after our hair after 40?

Kirby says that as we age, head and hair care are super important.

"For optimal hair care in your 40s and beyond, focus on hydration and protection, especially the scalp! Use sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners to retain moisture. Invest in regular deep conditioning treatments to maintain softness and shine.

"Consider incorporating hair serums or oils to combat frizz and enhance smoothness. Protect your hair from heat styling by minimising the use of hot tools and applying a thermal protectant spray always when using heat!"

What are the main hair-related issues for women over 40?

After we turn 40, our bodies change in so many ways – and as Kirby confirms, our hair can change too.

"Thinning hair is a common concern as women age. It can be due to hormonal changes, genetics, or health factors. Women may notice a decrease in hair density and volume; as well as this, the appearance of greys becomes more noticeable (which should be embraced!), but many women choose to colour over them.

"Hair can also become dry and brittle, grow slower and there can be a change in hair texture. At Pelo by Lago, we focus on scalp health, which is essential for this age group."

How to embrace our greys (if we want to...).

Kirby says that women who choose to embrace their silver and greys need to bide their time.

"Patience is key during the transition, so consult a professional stylist for the best advice on cuts and styles that complement your greys.

"Invest in quality haircare products to keep your grey hair healthy and vibrant, and play with different hairstyles, finding what makes you feel most confident!"

What are the best haircuts for women over 40?

When it comes to what kind of haircuts best suit women over 40, Kirby says there are a few things to keep in mind.

"As for the cut, cutting the hair off to a short bob or embracing their natural texture, heavily layered cuts, and classic layered shapes are coming back in a major way.

"I tend to start by asking my clients how they are feeling about their current colour and cut, and give some suggestions surrounding maintenance.

"Ultimately, in our consultations, our goal is to find out what their dream hair is and create that for them in whatever maintenance they can commit to, and suggest what options I feel would be most flattering for them."

What are the best celebrity haircuts for women over 40?

From classic long to cute updos, here are seven over-40 celebrities with amazing hair in some of the cuts as Kirby suggests to inspire you and your next in-salon visit.

 1. Reese Witherspoon: the classic cut.

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A post shared by Reese Witherspoon (@reesewitherspoon)

2. Kerry Washington: the long bob.

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A post shared by Kerry Washington (@kerrywashington)

3. Victoria Beckham: long and textured.

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A post shared by Victoria Beckham (@victoriabeckham)

4. Gemma Chan: layers.

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A post shared by Gemma Chan (@gemmachan)

5. Jules Robinson: fringe + loose waves.

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A post shared by Jules (@julesrobinson82)

6. Narelda Jacobs: the pixie crop.

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A post shared by Narelda Jacobs (@narelda_jacobs)

7. Leigh Campbell: the short bob.

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A post shared by Leigh Campbell (@leighacampbell)

Tell us. What's your favourite way to wear your hair? Share with us in the comment section below.

Laura Jackel is Mamamia's Senior Lifestyle Family Writer. For links to her articles and to see photos of her outfits (hair) and kids, follow her on Instagram.

Feature image: Canva/ Instagram @lauracjackel