The #1 Haircut That Will Make You Look Younger

We could ask 100 hairstylists for the best anti-aging haircut, and they'd all say the same thing: you want a soft, face-framing shape. And while you can get the same effect in a variety of lengths, collarbone-skimming strands are flattering for all ages and hair types. Look to Diane Keaton, Susan Sarandon, and Michelle Pfeiffer for inspiration.

In order to achieve the ideal shape, you'll want to ask for layers. "Long layers frame the face and soften the features," says Boston hairstylist and eponymous salon owner, Mario Russo. Blunt haircuts can be too severe, making every wrinkle stand out and highlighting trouble spots. Layers also add volume.

Bangs may make you think of your five-year-old granddaughter—and that's a good thing! They're associated with youth. They also make forehead lines disappear faster than any wrinkle cream. "Bangs can be a great, stylish way to hide lines while still maintaining a well constructed cut," says Russo. Plus, not all bangs have to be blunt. Ask your stylist for soft bangs that gradually blend into the rest of your hair—they're the most universally flattering.

Hair generally gets thinner with age, and sparse strands make you look older. That's why the perfect haircut builds volume into the hair. "Ask your stylist for layers that will enhance the volume and thickness of your locks," says Russo.When you style your hair at home, use a few tricks to achieve even more volume. Celebrity hairstylist Sarah Potempa suggests applying a few spritzes of root-lifting spray or a dollop of volumizing gel near your roots and the crown of your head. If your hair is fine and straight, flip your head over and blow dry upside down for extra volume. And if you're putting your hair in a ponytail or bun, some gentle backcombing at the crown will give you an even bigger boost.

Although the perfect cut has lots of layers, tell your hairstylist to step away from the razor. The results may be great at first, but hair that was cut with a razor becomes frizzy and broken much faster than hair that was cut with shears.

Even the best haircut in the world will look dated and unattractive if your color is flat. "Women should always go lighter with their hair as they get older," says Russo. "It updates their appearance and gives them a more youthful vibe."But that doesn't mean everyone should be blonde. Russo likes subtle caramel highlights on brunettes and a range of lighter tones for blondes. Solid color is unflattering and harsh around the face so ask for highlights and lowlights.

Now that you have the perfect haircut, Russo recommends styling it in youthful ways. He suggests a low ponytail with lots of volume at the crown. "It's timeless and can be dressed up or dressed down," he says. Another favorite is the messy chignon: "keep it loose and romantic; it's softer around your face." And if you're looking to revive flat hair, it's as simple as parting it to one side. "You'll instantly have more volume," he says. "And it's chic and modern." Wearing your hair the same way every day can be boring and add years to your look—change it regularly.