• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer
Men Hairstyles World
  • About
    • About Philip
    • About Michelle
    • About Joshua
  • Hair Length
    • Long Hair
    • Medium Length Hair
    • Short Hair
  • Hair Types
    • Curly
    • Straight
  • Haircuts Styles
    • Black Hair
    • Braids
    • Classic
    • Colored
    • Eccentric
    • Fade
    • Modern
    • Mullet
    • Undercut
    • In the World
    • Youth
  • Beards
  • Celebrities
  • Occasions
  • Contact
Men Hairstyles World

Men Hairstyles World

Menโ€™s Haircuts & Beard Styling Inspiration

  • About
    • About Philip
    • About Michelle
    • About Joshua
  • Hair Length
    • Long Hair
    • Medium Length Hair
    • Short Hair
  • Hair Types
    • Curly
    • Straight
  • Haircuts Styles
    • Black Hair
    • Braids
    • Classic
    • Colored
    • Eccentric
    • Fade
    • Modern
    • Mullet
    • Undercut
    • In the World
    • Youth
  • Beards
  • Celebrities
  • Occasions
  • Contact
Home ยป Haircuts Styles ยป A Mature Hairline: What It Is + How to Tell It Apart

A Mature Hairline: What It Is + How to Tell It Apart

October 15, 2019 By Lilith Wetherall Leave a Comment

The fact is that guys tend to associate the term ‘mature hairline’ with receding hairlines, male pattern baldness, and hair loss, in general. Of course theyโ€™ll start panicking at the thought. But little do people know what a mature hairline actually refers to.

Luckily, weโ€™ve done all the research and packed it into one place so you won’t go tumbling down the black hole of apocalyptic Google searches. Weโ€™ll break down everything you need to know about mature hairlines, from the definition to causes, comparisons, and development timeline.

To top everything off, weโ€™ll show you what hairstyles flatter a mature hairline, as well as some extra hair care tips.

What Is a Mature Hairline?

For countless men, using the words โ€œmatureโ€ and โ€œhairlineโ€ in the same sentence is enough to provoke unease. However, is a mature hairline really a reason to worry?

Before we go any further, we need to make sure that weโ€™re all on the same page. So, what is a mature hairline, anyway? It can be defined as the new, slightly higher hairline that men develop when transitioning from teenagers to adults.

What Is a Mature Hairline
Source

The process usually takes place during a manโ€™s late teens and late twenties, typically between the ages of 17 and 29.

In saying that, the specific age in which a hairline starts to mature differs from man to man. So much so, that some guys can begin showing signs of a maturing hairline before or even after the standard age range.

Hairline maturation is a natural experience that almost all guys will undergo in some way, shape, or form.

Only a small percentage of men retain what is known as their โ€œjuvenile hairlineโ€, i.e. the low hairline that boys have. Your hairline matures, just like you do as an individual. This happens as you grow into your adult male body.

Why Does the Hairline Mature?

A maturing hairline is an inherent part of the male aging process. After puberty, the body continues to develop both inside and out. While some teens experience a growth spurt, others might notice that their hairline is a little higher than before.

By no means is it a reason to panic. Rather, you should treat it as an opportunity to educate yourself on the natural stages of adulthood that your body goes through.

Why Does Hairline Mature
Source

The Biological Explanation

Biologically speaking, it seems that the reason why hairlines mature is the change in hormones that happens in the body. While not yet scientifically proven, specialists believe that the sex hormone Dihydrotestosterone โ€“ commonly known as DHT โ€“ is connected to hairline maturation.

The androgen is known for causing hair follicle reduction, which is why itโ€™s often acknowledged as a possible cause for hairline maturation. For the same reason, high levels of DHT in the body can lead to hair loss.

Is a Mature Hairline Normal?

A maturing hairline is as normal as any other step in a personโ€™s physical development. It certainly shouldnโ€™t be the basis for living in constant fear of hair loss. But weโ€™ll get to that in a minute.

his hairline is real gif
via Giphy

Knowing how much guys worry about the smallest indication of a rising hairline, we canโ€™t stress enough just how natural the phenomenon is. Itโ€™s just like your hair turning silver as you age.

While there arenโ€™t official statistics to confirm its prevalence, it is estimated that well over 90% of white men will have a mature hairline in the second half of their lives. Additionally, even though Caucasians make up the majority of men whose hairlines mature in time, people of color might also go through the stage.

Does Mature Hairline Mean Balding?

Now, to address the terrorizing elephant in the room โ€“ โ€œif my hairline is maturing, does that mean that Iโ€™m going bald?โ€

As long as the space between your hairline and the highest wrinkle on your forehead doesnโ€™t exceed 2/3 of an inch, rest assured that you are not balding. Later on in our guide, weโ€™ll show you exactly how to measure everything so you can see for yourself.

Until then, letโ€™s get into all the comparisons that pop up in conversations about mature hairlines.

Mature Hairline vs Balding

If youโ€™re prone or suffering from male pattern baldness (also known as MPB), the shape of your hairline will be notably different. While a normal mature hairline is convex, a person who is showing signs of balding will notice an M-like silhouette forming.

Does Mature Hairline Mean Balding
Source

To help you understand the stages of male pattern baldness, we recommend consulting the Hamilton-Norwood scale. Developed between the 1950s and 1970s by Dr. James Hamilton and Dr. Oโ€™Tar Norwood, the scale identifies seven stages of balding.

If your hairline resembles the one depicted in stage 1 and perhaps even stage 2, youโ€™re likely dealing with a mature one. Men with male pattern baldness are invited to take a look at these hairstyles for balding men.

Mature Hairline vs Receding Hairline

Once you get any MPB concerns out of the way, thereโ€™s a good chance the next question on your mind will be, โ€œis my hairline maturing or receding?โ€ Yes, it is, but not in the way you probably think.

Mature Hairline vs Receding Hairline
Source

By definition, your hairline will recede as it matures. Be that as it may, thereโ€™s a massive difference between what is acknowledged as a receding hairline and one that is maturing.

First off, the hair recession at the level of your temples will be visibly more accentuated than the rest. After that, a mature hairline doesnโ€™t rise that far up, whereas a receding one is higher up on the head. Think Tom Hanks, Jude Law, or Mel Gibson.

If you fall into the latter category, we have a lengthy list of hairstyles for men with receding hairlines to help you out.

Thinning Hair vs Mature Hairline

Itโ€™s not really that hard to spot the difference between a mature hairline and thinning hair. Actually, itโ€™s kind of like comparing apples to oranges. Hairline refers to a silhouette while thinning regards the thickness of the hair.

Thinning Hair vs Mature Hairline
Source

Even though they are two distinct features, there are cases in which a person can have both a mature hairline and thinning hair. Oftentimes, men with thinning hair also present a mature or even a receding hairline. Nevertheless, itโ€™s not a mandatory trait.

Still, dealing with thin hair can be challenging so we warmly encourage you to check out our collection of practical hairstyles for men with thin hair.

Widow’s Peak vs Mature Hairline

Although mature hairlines and widowโ€™s peaks are separate concepts, thereโ€™s somewhat of a debate regarding the latter in comparison to receding hairlines.

Some people claim that a widowโ€™s peak is a sure sign of a receding hairline. On the other hand, others are simply born with a widowโ€™s peak and never end up having to cope with baldness.

Widow's Peak vs Mature Hairline

Source

In the end, a widowโ€™s peak is defined as a type of hairline. Indeed, numerous men can have one form as they ease into MBP. But that doesnโ€™t necessarily mean that every guy with a widowโ€™s peak silhouette will eventually end up with a receding hairline.

Take Leonardo DiCaprio, for instance. Heโ€™s always had a widowโ€™s peak and his long, slicked back mane has yet to show any indication of disappearing.

Juvenile vs Mature Hairline

An original, immature, first, or juvenile hairline is that which you have up until you are an adolescent. Itโ€™s noticeably lower down the forehead and persists throughout boyhood and until the late teenage years.

Juvenile vs Mature Hairline
Source

In terms of measurements, the difference between a juvenile and mature hairline is usually around 0.59 inches or 1.5 centimeters.

When Does a Mature Hairline Start & Stop?

The course of developing a mature hairline varies greatly from case to case. Some men can even experience their hairline maturing throughout an entire decade. Others will see the development come to a close within a couple of years. The bottom line is that it wonโ€™t happen overnight.

glow up episode 5 hair gif
via Giphy

As far as expected ages go, weโ€™ve already clarified that hairlines can start maturing as early as 17 or even earlier, in some cases. Itโ€™s quite a unique process for every individual, so welcome it with open arms if it arrives.

How Can I Measure a Mature Hairline?

If you really want to get into the nitty-gritty of hairlines, you can go ahead and measure yours. After all, it will help you determine which category your hairline falls under: juvenile, mature or receding. To do so, simply follow the instructions outlined below.

via GIPHY

  1. Grab a handheld mirror or sit in front of a larger one.
  2. Scrunch your forehead as if you were surprised and wide-eyed.
  3. Place your finger directly under your hairline and above the highest forehead wrinkle.

If the space between your hairline and top wrinkle is less than or equal to the width of your finger (with approximation), you have a mature hairline. Any wider than that and thereโ€™s a chance that you could be confronting a receding hairline.

What Does a Mature Hairline Look Like?

To get an idea about the appearance of a mature hairline, take a look at any man over the age of 40 (and, in many cases, even 30 plus). Itโ€™s as easy as that. Yet again, it goes to show just how common mature hairlines are and that theyโ€™re nothing to worry about.

joe andrews men hair gif
via Giphy

In more specific terms, the standard depiction of a mature hairline will be high on the forehead, but not so high as to be mistaken for a receding one. In addition, there will be a good amount of hair around the temples.

Ideas for Mature Hairline Hairstyles

But why try to merely explain when we have a set of great mature hairline examples prepared? Aside from clearly illustrating hair maturation, our examples come with clever hairstyle suggestions. They will help you understand not only what cuts and styles you can try, but also encourage you to sport your hairline with confidence!

1. Regular Haircut

regular haircut
Source

No matter how young or old you are, you can never ever go wrong with a regular haircut. First of all, itโ€™s guaranteed to flatter any mature hairline. Secondly, itโ€™s a professional hairstyle fit for men of all ages.

For some, it may be old fashioned, but we say thatโ€™s a classy and clean-cut look for any man with a good sense of style. Stephen Colbert is just one example out of many that support the timeless cut.

2. Slick Back Hairstyle

Slick Back Hairstyle
Source

If youโ€™re on the lookout for more of a dapper hairstyle, you can proudly rock your mature hairline with slick back hair. Leo DiCaprio, Brad Pitt, and countless A-list celebrities over the age of 40 are killing it with their sleek locks. To get the look, let your hair grow out to medium length. Then, use a high-quality styling product to slick your strands back.

3. Textured Quiff Haircut

textured quiff
Source

The quiff haircut is one of the coolest and top-trending hairstyles of the moment. Itโ€™s a versatile, youthful, and visibly flattering look for men. To add texture and definition cut some layers into it. As for styling, itโ€™s all in sweeping your hair to the side and then upwards, above your forehead.

4. Angular Fringe Haircut

angular fringe
Source

If youโ€™re not quite ready to embrace your maturing hairline head-on, you can conceal it with a fringe haircut for men. This will help you cover up at least a portion of your hairline until you become accustomed to it. We recommend pairing the angular fringe with an undercut for extra style.

5. Curtain Fringe Hairstyle

curtain fringe
Source

Alternatively, you can also go for curtain bangs to conceal a maturing hairline. Curtain bangs reached peak popularity in the late 1990s, and they continue being a symbol of the tall, dark, and mysterious. We particularly recommend a curtain fringe hairstyle for men with naturally straight hair.

6. Faux Hawk Hairstyle

faux hawk
Source

If youโ€™d rather stay up to date with the latest trends in the hair industry, consider going for a faux hawk haircut. As opposed to fringe cuts, a faux hawk will do anything but hide away your maturing hairline. Itโ€™s a perfect way to wear your hairline with your head held high.

7. Flow Hairstyle

flow hairstyle
Source

Are you ready to go with the flow and accept the sophistication that can come with a mature hairline? Youโ€™ll definitely want to look into flow hairstyles.

In essence, a flow hairstyle is just medium length hair that is casually swept back. In contrast to slicked back hair, a flow hairstyle will do exactly what it promises… flow. Men with wavy or curly hair can pull one off without too much effort.

8. Buzz Cut

buzz cut
Source

If youโ€™d rather keep things simple and choose function over form, your best bet is the buzz cut. Itโ€™s probably one of the most beloved super-short haircuts of all time. In the case of men with mature hairlines, the buzz cut can minimize the receding look and add a bad boy touch to your look.

9. Ivy League Haircut

ivy league haircut
Source

Thereโ€™s no better hairstyle to encase your maturing hairline than the Ivy League haircut. If youโ€™re all about maintaining a flawless visual presence, donโ€™t underestimate the power of an Ivy League cut. Your exceptional tastes will be appreciated even from a distance.

10. Shape Up Haircut

shape up
Source

The shape up haircut, also known as the line up haircut will help sharpen your features and increase the manliness of your hairstyle. In essence, your hairline will be chiseled to form a sharp rectangular shape – no more stressing over that mature hairline.

How Can I Prevent Additional Hairline Recession?

Alright, letโ€™s say that weโ€™ve convinced you that you shouldnโ€™t be terror-stricken at the sight of a maturing hairline. Still, weโ€™re sure that youโ€™ll want to know how you can prevent your hairline from receding more than it already has.

via GIPHY

There are medications like Finasteride or Minoxidil (commonly known as Rogaine) that are prescribed for hair growth. Revivogen is also used as a topical, drug-free solution for preventing additional hair loss.

However, we never recommend taking any form of medication โ€“ prescription or otherwise โ€“ without speaking to a certified dermatologist.

Instead, some natural alternatives that will improve not only your hair situation but also your overall lifestyle are:

  • Have a diet rich in vitamins and minerals – more specifically, vitamins A, B, C, D, E, and nutrients like protein or iron.
  • Regular scalp massages – will stimulate the circulation of blood and revitalize your hair follicles. Use an oil that will help balance the pH levels in your hair, such as castor oil.
  • Consume Omega-3 fatty acids – these not only help promote the growth of your hair but they can also minimize scalp irritation.
  • Reduce DHT levels – with the help of foods rich in zinc, like nuts (almonds or cashews are excellent choices).
  • Keep calm and carry on – In recent years, specialists noticed a connection between stress and hair loss. In any case, reducing the amount of stress in your life via light exercise, exposure to the outdoors, or meditation will support your general state of wellbeing.

Conclusion

There you go โ€“ the widely debated topic of the mature hairline in a nutshell. See? Itโ€™s not so bad after all. Regardless of the situation youโ€™re in, rest assured that there are more than enough haircuts and hairstyles out there that will please you!

If you still have conflicting thoughts about the onset of balding, it would be best to consult a dermatologist. Only a licensed professional can determine whether youโ€™re slipping into MPB or just experiencing a maturing hairline.

What about you? Has your hairline already matured? If so, do you have any comforting tips for other discontent men who are in the beginning stages? Share your wisdom with other readers in the comments below!

Related posts:

50 Trendy Blue Hairstyles Ideas for Men in 2022
50 Flat Top Haircut Ideas
50 Trendy Baseball Haircut Ideas for Men in 2022
50 Amazing Mop Top Hairstyle Ideas for Men in 2022
50 Awesome Middle Part Hairstyle Ideas for Men in 2022
30 Worst Haircuts for Men Ideas in 2023
50 Stunning Pink Hair Ideas for Men in 2022
53 Best Hairstyles Ideas for Older Men in 2022
50 Coolest Summer Haircut Ideas for Men in 2023
130 Popular Men's Haircuts Trending in 2022
50 Best Two Block Haircut Ideas for Men in 2023
50 Cool Waves Haircut Ideas for Men in 2022
Lilith Wetherall
Lilith Wetherall

Lilith Wetherall is a freelance writer, editor, and blogger. She graduated in 2014 with a B.A. in Theatre Arts and a minor in Journalism. She later found her passion for hairstyles and is now professing in a menโ€™s salon. Some of her favorite things to do include reading, writing, watching movies, and being outdoors. When sheโ€™s not writing for our readers, she is either at the salon or at home trying out a new hair color.

Spread the love
 26     
26
Shares
 
26
Shares
 26    
Previous Post: « Long Hair or Short Hair? A Pros & Cons Debate
Next Post: 50 Stylish High Fade Haircuts for Men »

Reader Interactions

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Primary Sidebar

Recent Posts

  • 50 Best Boys Haircuts Ideas for 2023
  • 40 Types of Haircuts for Men
  • 50 Best Rat Tail Hair Ideas for Men in 2023
  • 60 Trendy Curly Hairstyles for Men in 2023
  • 50 Cristiano Ronaldo Hairstyles to Wear Yourself
  • 50 Best Two Block Haircut Ideas for Men in 2023
  • 30 Worst Haircuts for Men Ideas in 2023
  • 20 Bowl Cut Ideas for Men
  • 50 Flat Top Haircut Ideas
  • 55 Short Sides Long Top Hairstyles for Men

Footer

Popular

Gray & Silver Hair
Older Men Hairstyles
Boys Haircuts
Short Sides Long Top
Braids for Men
Korean Hairstyle

Haircuts Styles

Low Maintenance Haircuts
Short Haircuts
Medium Length Hairstyles
Mullet Haircuts
Shag Hairstyles
Curtain Haircut

Eccentric Hairstyles

Low Maintenance Haircuts
Short Haircuts
Medium Length Hairstyles
Emo Haircut
Punk Hairstyles
Mohawk Hairstyle
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • Twitter
  • YouTube

Copyright © 2023 ยท Men Hairstyles WORLD
About | Privacy Policy | Terms of Use | Contact