Cut

Ever wondered if your current haircut is the best for your age or hair type? Jan Waite, creative director and owner of Auckland’s Jan Waite Hairdressing, and L’Oreal Colour Trophy Supreme Award finalist, shares her advice for some common hair issues.

I am looking for a cut to help my fine hair feel thicker.
a short crop teamed with the right product will give you volume and movement. Some complementary colour will also add dimension and extra volume. After washing, use a finishing product to give your hair more oomph, such as a mousse, which you apply before blow-drying, or a wax or shine serum to smooth the hair and create shine. Flexibility of shape ensures a short style is always youthful and fresh.

I have strong facial features and, now in my 40s, I want a style that will soften my face as I get older.
try a soft bob Soft and subtle is always a great option when searching for a flattering youthful cut. A wavy bob will ensure you avoid the ageing effect of hard lines, which is especially important if you have strong features. A long bob that is feathered around the face will complement any face shape. It is also easy to style in different ways – by changing your curls or straightening your locks – giving you the flexibility to mix up your look. Don’t forget to maintain the cut with regular trips to your salon for trims. This will keep the hair tidy and shaped around the nape of your neck.

I want to keep my long hair, but need to update my look.
Add some long layers to create soft shaping around your face. This will keep the look young and fresh, while still enabling you to wear your hair in a variety of styles. To maintain a cut of this nature, I would recommend using a moisturising hair masque. This will help to lock in moisture, ensuring your hair stays shiny and healthy. Always use a styling product and heat protectants when using heat styling tools, so that your ends stay fresh.

I am after a cut which is edgy but is suitable for all ages.
A short pixie crop makes your look youthful by enhancing cheekbones and eyes, while opening up your face. The use of pastels is a forecasted colour trend for 2014 and works perfectly with a style like this. Moisturising and hydrating your hair is imperative to keep it looking shiny and healthy. I would recommend that you have regular trims and anti-ageing hair treatments to keep your hair in peak condition.

I have thick hair and need a cut to tame my locks.
A classic shag-style cut will create softness around your face while still being short enough to provide height and volume. Teaming this with a colour that accentuates the style, such as deeper roots and lighter ends, provides a soft youthful look. Well moisturised hair will help you create and keep this style sleek and shiny. I would recommend a root lift product to secure the volume.