Identifying your face shape is crucial when it comes to selecting the perfect hairstyle, makeup, and accessories. With the right knowledge, you can highlight your best features and downplay your less flattering ones. In this article, we will guide you on how to identify your face shape and provide tips on how to enhance your appearance.
Table of Content
- What is Face Shape?
- How to Identify Face Shape?
- Face Shape Types
- Tips for Each Face Shape
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Hair Care Tips
What is Face Shape?
Face shape refers to the overall shape and structure of your face, including the forehead, cheekbones, jawline, and chin. There are seven common face shapes: oval, round, square, heart, diamond, oblong, and triangle.
How to Identify Face Shape?
The easiest way to identify your face shape is to take a photo of yourself facing the camera, with your hair pulled back and your face fully visible. Then, use a ruler or measuring tape to take the following measurements:
- Forehead width: measure the distance between the two widest points of your forehead, just above your eyebrows.
- Cheekbone width: measure the distance between the two widest points of your cheekbones, just below your eyes.
- Jawline width: measure the distance between the two points where your jawline angles upwards towards your ears.
- Face length: measure the distance from the center of your hairline to the tip of your chin.
Once you have your measurements, compare them to the average proportions of each face shape to determine which category you fall into.
Face Shape Types
Here are the seven most common face shapes and their defining features:
Oval Face Shape
An oval face shape is longer than it is wide, with a gently rounded hairline and a slightly curved jawline. The forehead is usually slightly wider than the chin, and the cheekbones are high and prominent.
Round Face Shape
A round face shape has a soft, circular shape with a wide hairline and full cheeks. The width and length of the face are almost equal, and the jawline is gently curved.
Square Face Shape
A square face shape has a strong, angular jawline and a broad forehead. The cheekbones are also prominent, and the width and length of the face are roughly equal.
Heart Face Shape
A heart face shape has a wide forehead and cheekbones that narrow down to a pointed chin. The jawline is usually small and delicate.
Diamond Face Shape
A diamond face shape has high, dramatic cheekbones and a narrow forehead and jawline. The face is widest at the temples and gradually narrows towards the chin.
Oblong Face Shape
An oblong face shape is longer than it is wide, with a straight forehead and a gently rounded chin. The cheekbones are not particularly prominent.
Triangle Face Shape
A triangle face shape has a narrow forehead and high cheekbones that widen towards the jawline. The jawline is usually broad and strong.
Tips for Each Face Shape
Once you have identified your face shape, you can use the following tips to enhance your features:
Oval Face Shape
- Almost any hairstyle and accessory will suit an oval face shape, so experiment with different looks.
- Avoid covering up your forehead with bangs, as this can make your face appear shorter.
- Highlight your high cheekbones with a bit of blush or bronzer.
Round Face Shape
- Choose hairstyles that add height to the top of your head, such as a high ponytail or bun.
- Avoid hairstyles that add volume to the sides of your face, such as short bobs or curly styles.
- Use contouring makeup to define your cheekbones and slim down your face.
Square Face Shape
- Choose hairstyles with soft, rounded edges, such as layered cuts or loose waves.
- Avoid sharp, angular hairstyles that emphasize your square jawline, such as blunt bobs or straight-across bangs.
- Use blush to soften your cheekbones and add warmth to your face.
Heart Face Shape
- Choose hairstyles that add fullness to the lower half of your face, such as a chin-length bob or layered cut.
- Avoid hairstyles that add volume to the top of your head, such as high ponytails or bouffants.
- Use contouring makeup to slim down your forehead and emphasize your cheekbones.
Diamond Face Shape
- Choose hairstyles that add width to the forehead and chin, such as a side-swept bangs or a chin-length bob.
- Avoid hairstyles that emphasize the width of your cheekbones, such as high ponytails or slicked-back styles.
- Use blush to soften your cheekbones and add warmth to your face.
Oblong Face Shape
- Choose hairstyles that add width to the sides of your face, such as loose waves or a layered cut.
- Avoid hairstyles that add height to the top of your head, such as high ponytails or slicked-back styles.
- Use blush to add fullness to your cheeks and balance out your face shape.
Triangle Face Shape
- Choose hairstyles that add volume to the top of your head, such as a high ponytail or a layered cut with bangs.
- Avoid hairstyles that emphasize the width of your jawline, such as blunt bobs or straight-across bangs.
- Use contouring makeup to define your cheekbones and slim down your jawline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if my face shape doesn't fit any of these categories?
While these are the most common face shapes, there are certainly exceptions. If your face shape doesn't fit any of these categories, focus on choosing hairstyles and accessories that flatter your unique features.
Do I need to take all of the measurements to identify my face shape?
While taking all of the measurements can be helpful, you can usually identify your face shape by comparing just a few key measurements, such as your forehead width and jawline width.
Can I change my face shape with makeup or hairstyles?
While you can't change your actual face shape, you can use makeup and hairstyles to create the illusion of a different shape. For example, contouring makeup can make your face appear more angular, while certain hairstyles can add fullness to the top or sides of your face.
Hair Care Tips
No matter what your face shape is, it's important to take care of your hair to keep it healthy and looking its best. Here are a few tips:
- Choose a shampoo and conditioner that is tailored to your hair type.
- Avoid using hot tools on your hair too often, as this can cause damage and breakage.
- Protect your hair from the sun and harsh weather by wearing a hat or using a leave-in conditioner with SPF.
- Get regular trims to keep your hair looking healthy and prevent split ends.
With these tips, you can identify your face shape and choose the perfect hairstyle, makeup, and accessories to enhance your natural beauty. Remember, the most important thing is to feel confident and comfortable in your own skin!
