How to Identify Your Face Shape for the Best Haircut

HAIRCUTS

Aug 30

Portrait of a smiling young woman with tousled, shoulder-length black hair, wearing a white sleeveless top.

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Have you ever walked out of a salon feeling like a new person, all because of a perfect haircut? As a hairstylist, I've had countless clients who struggled with finding the right cut, only to see their faces light up when we nailed down their face shape and matched it with the perfect style.

Knowing your face shape is a game-changer. It can turn a good haircut into a great one and a great one into something truly transformative. It also helps you choose hairstyles that accentuate your best features and bring out your natural beauty. In this post, I'll guide you through how to identify your face shape. Let’s get started!

How to Identify Your Face Shape

Knowing your face shape can be a game-changer for selecting the perfect haircut. Let's break down how to figure out your face shape by looking at some key features:

Forehead

Look at the width of your forehead. Is it the widest part of your face, or does it taper towards your hairline? The forehead plays a significant role in determining your face shape.

Cheekbones

Your cheekbones are a key indicator. Feel the area just below your eyes and measure the distance between the outer edges of your cheekbones. High and prominent cheekbones often define face shapes.

Jawline

Examine your jawline. Is it rounded, squared, or pointed? The shape and width of your jawline can help differentiate between similar face shapes.

Face Length

Measure the length of your face from the top of your forehead (hairline) to the bottom of your chin. Compare this to the width of your face (from cheekbone to cheekbone). The proportion between length and width is essential in identifying your face shape.

What Are the Different Face Shapes?

When it comes to face shapes, there are six main types to consider. Each face shape has unique characteristics that can influence which hairstyles will look best on you. Here are the six face shapes:

Oval
Round
Square
Triangular
Diamond
Heart

Two pages from a haircut freebie stacked side by side, displayed in a mockup. A guide on determining your face shape for the perfect haircut, featuring examples of different hairstyles suited to various face shapes.

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Characteristics of Different Face Shapes

Oval Face

If your forehead is slightly wider than your chin and you have high cheekbones that create a gently rounded shape, then you likely have an oval face. This face shape is known for its balanced proportions, allowing you to pull off a variety of hairstyles effortlessly. Oval faces are versatile, with no single feature dominating the others, making it easier to experiment with different looks.

Round Face

If you have a wide forehead, full cheeks, and a rounded chin, your face shape is likely round. The widest point is at the center of your face, giving it a softer, less angular appearance. This face shape is characterized by its youthful and approachable look, making it perfect for styles that add height and angles to elongate your face.

Square Face

If you have a strong jawline, a wide forehead, and a square chin, your face shape is likely square. The width and length of your face are roughly the same, giving it a balanced and symmetrical appearance. The corners of your jaw are angular and pronounced, which adds a striking and bold look to your features. This face shape works well with styles that soften the angles and add length.

Triangular Face

If you have a narrow forehead along with a wide jawline and chin, your face shape is likely triangular. The jawline is the widest part of your face, while the forehead is the narrowest. This shape often includes a pointed chin, adding a unique and distinctive look to your overall appearance. Styles that add width to the forehead and temples while softening the jawline can complement this face shape beautifully.

Diamond Face

If your face has a narrow forehead and jawline, with wide cheekbones, you might have a diamond face shape. Your chin is usually pointed, giving your face a distinct and unique appearance. This shape is characterized by its angular and defined features, with the cheekbones being the widest part of the face. Styles that soften the angles and highlight the cheekbones work particularly well for this face shape.

Heart Face

If you find that your forehead is the widest part of your face, tapering down to a narrow, pointed chin, you likely have a heart-shaped face. High cheekbones that lead to a distinct, sharp chin are key indicators of this face shape. Often referred to as an inverted triangle, this shape emphasizes the upper part of the face.

Reese Witherspoon smiling at an awards show, her heart-shaped face enhanced by long, blonde, side-parted hairstyle and elegant makeup.

How Can I Find the Best Haircut for My Face Shape?

Now that you've identified your face shape, you're one step closer to discovering the perfect haircut that enhances your natural features. But don't stop here! To ensure you never experience another bad haircut, download my free guide, "Find Your Perfect Haircut Based on Your Face Shape"

This guide will educate you on the best haircuts tailored for each face shape, helping you to confidently communicate your desired look to your stylist. It includes detailed breakdowns of each haircut, so you’ll know exactly what to ask for. Download the guide now and step into your next salon visit with confidence and clarity.

Mockup of a haircut freebie ebook. A guide on determining your face shape for the perfect haircut, featuring examples of different hairstyles suited to various face shapes.

For more inspiration and tips on finding the perfect haircut, check out these posts:

Trendy Haircut Ideas: Discover the latest trends and styles to refresh your look.
Shoulder Length Haircuts for Thin Hair: Learn how to add volume and movement to your hair with the right cut and styling techniques.
Layer Cut for Long Hair: Add dimension and body to your long hair with a layered cut. Explore different layering techniques to achieve a beautiful, flowing hairstyle that highlights your natural beauty.
Best Medium Length Haircuts with Layers: Medium-length haircuts with layers offer versatility and style. Find out how to create a flattering, layered look that complements your face shape and enhances your hair's natural texture.

For even more personalized advice, download my free haircut guide. It’s packed with tips on how to find the best haircuts for your face shape and how to communicate your desired look to your hairstylist!