This past week, someone thought I was still in high school (sometimes known as secondary school), but I’m actually at least ten years older.

I don’t care what they think since they are still in high school themselves, but I’m sure other people have thought I was that young (but didn’t say it out loud).

Other than growing a beard, what else can I (and other men) do to make ourselves (at least facially) look older?

  • OrgunDonor@lemmy.world
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    2 hours ago

    I think there is a few things you can do. I do think the best and healthiest thing is to just take it as a compliment, but keep your ID close if your are doing something that needs verifying.

    But, if you(or someone), doesnt like it, and it is causing you issues mentally(perfectly valid). Then you can not shave as close or as often, works better the thinker and more consistent your stubble is.

    Dress older, this is a lot more expensive, but can look at things like chinos and relaxed jeans with polo shirts or as we are approaching winter more knitwear, you would also be looking at boat shoes or loafers. You may also find that Hats make you look older as well.

    The final one is a bit more tricky, your hairstyle. Change that to be a bit longer and “scruffy”(think around the ears a bit more) or if you have a good head shape, go short or bald. This could also have the complete opposite effect as well, and further highlight the baby face though.

    Bonus bad idea, get so much sun on your face it starts to go all leathery. May have a slight side effect of cancer though.

  • insanemantis@lemmy.world
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    16 hours ago

    Life isn’t a race. Hold onto your youth and don’t peak early, stay whimsical and have fun

    Once you’re actually old, you’ll be glad that it’s at least a new experience

    • BigPotato@lemmy.world
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      6 hours ago

      No, sandals with socks is the current high school meta. If he’s already got a baby face, he’s doomed if he starts doing that.

  • pachrist@lemmy.world
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    1 day ago

    It’s all about what you wear.

    White New Balance 608s, jorts, and a graphic tee about sarcasm or puns. Make sure your 608s are stained a little green from mowing the lawn.

    Route every conversation back to your lawn, lawnmowers, or the Traeger/Blackstone you want to buy when your wife let’s you.

    Literally that easy.

  • kindnesskills@literature.cafe
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    1 day ago

    Caring about how old people are or look is a young person’s game.

    When you go “What? Of course I know today is Tuesday… Oh yeah you’re right, it is my birthday. Nah, just an early night for me.”, no one will think you’re a high schooler.

    But style choices, posture, glasses and other accessories can make a difference as well.

    Or just take thinning shears to your temples and crown, and go for a balding look.

  • mHtt@lemmy.ca
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    2 days ago

    start smoking and drinking, cut back on sleep and find an unfulfilling stressful and thankless job that also underpays. throw in some women/partner/spouse that treat you like shit to really speed this up.

  • moondoggie@lemmy.world
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    2 days ago

    Have kids. The people with kids who are ten years younger than me look twenty years older than me.

    • i_stole_ur_taco@lemmy.ca
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      2 days ago

      I used to have 3 grey hairs on my beard. Now she’s 3 and it’s all fucking grey.

      “Well you’re probably just naturally greying anyway”

      No. I’m greying because every visit to the toilet is an hourlong negotiation that didn’t have to happen.

  • fruitycoder@sh.itjust.works
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    20 hours ago

    Look “professional” tends to help. It’s an overton window some, you’ll want to find the most professional you can look for what your face and body type. But you are essentially try to look like you are in a later stage in your career which people, because it takes time, associate with older people.

    Adding some muscle mass can help (you know towards dad bod no need for body builder shenanigans).

    Some old guy tricks are wearing smart pragmatic clothing, but are kind of commiting to the bit of being comfortable being an adult. So suspenders/belts to keep your pants up, fanny packs to store stuff you need on the go (medical kit, snacks), somewhere to have a pen, a utility knife, etc. Glasses if you need them. Hats that keep the weather off of you appropriate to your region. Etc

  • antsu@discuss.tchncs.de
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    1 day ago

    Spend long hours under the scorching sun with no protection. The irreversible damage caused by UV light will make your skin look significantly older. Bonus points for not using sunglasses, so your vision can deteriorate faster too.

    I don’t think I need to say this, but just in case: do not actually do that.


    Also, I too used to think “I can’t grow a beard” due to thin and not very dense facial hair, but if you say “screw it” and do it anyway, it eventually works out (unless your reason is different). It’ll look like absolute shit for a while, but once the slower growing areas catch up, it’s not that bad.

  • Maestro@fedia.io
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    1 day ago

    Just enjoy it while it lasts. People have consistently estimated me 10 years younger than my real age for decades. Well, until now, since I’m getting some grey hairs.

  • phdepressed@sh.itjust.works
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    2 days ago

    A good haircut can help. Get one that fits your face better than whatever standard cut you’ve had since middleschool or earlier.

    Fat hides change. Get fit.

    A lot of the difference between hs and mid 20s is largely about demeanor. How you carry yourself with a bit more knowledge about who you are.