Are you tired of getting the same old haircut every time you visit your barber? Do you want to switch things up and try something new? Well, the first step in finding the perfect hairstyle is to determine your face shape. Every face shape is different, and each one requires a specific hairstyle that complements it. Our comprehensive guide will assist you in identifying your distinct face shape and provide expert advice on selecting the ideal hairstyle that accentuates your unique features.
Step 1: Determine Your Face Shape
The first step in finding the right hairstyle is to determine your face shape. To do this, you can stand in front of a mirror and use a measuring tape to take the following measurements:
- Forehead: Measure across the widest part of your forehead, from one hairline to the other.
- Cheekbones: Measure across the widest part of your cheekbones, just below your eyes.
- Jawline: Measure from the tip of your chin to the point where your jaw angles upward towards your ears.
- Face length: Measure from the center of your hairline to the tip of your chin.
Once you have these measurements, you can use them to determine your face shape. There are six basic face shapes: round, square, oval, oblong, heart, and diamond.
Round Face Shape
If you have a round face shape, your face is as wide as it is long, with full cheeks and a rounded chin. The goal with a round face shape is to elongate the face and make it appear less round. A layered cut that falls below the chin or a shoulder-length cut with long layers will help elongate the face. Side-swept bangs will also help to break up the roundness of the face.
Square Face Shape
If you have a square face shape, your face is as wide as it is long, with a strong jawline and a square-shaped forehead. The goal is to soften the angles and create some curves. A layered cut with soft, wispy bangs will help to soften the angles of the face. A long bob with loose waves or curls will also create some movement and add some curves to the face.
Oval Face Shape
If you have an oval face shape, your face is longer than it is wide, with a rounded hairline and jawline. The goal is to maintain balance and symmetry. An oval face shape can pull off almost any hairstyle, so feel free to experiment. Long layers, blunt bobs, and pixie cuts all work well with an oval face shape.
Oblong Face Shape
If you have an oblong face shape, your face is longer than it is wide, with a high forehead and a narrow chin. You should create the illusion of width and add some volume to the face. A shoulder-length cut with soft waves or curls will add some width to the face. Side-swept bangs will also help to break up the length of the face.
Heart Face Shape
If you have a heart face shape, your face is wider at the forehead and tapers down to a pointy chin. The goal is to balance out the top-heavy appearance. A shoulder-length cut with long layers will balance out the top-heavy appearance of a heart face shape. Side-swept bangs will also help to create some balance and add some volume to the face.
Diamond Face Shape
If you have a diamond face shape, your face is widest at the cheekbones and tapers down to a narrow forehead and chin. You should create some balance and soften the angles of the face. A layered cut with soft waves or curls will help to soften the angles of the face and add some volume. Side-swept bangs or a center part with face-framing layers will also help to create balance and symmetry.
Step 2: Consider Your Hair Texture and Type
The texture of your hair refers to its thickness, while the type refers to its natural curl pattern. Your hair texture and type can have a significant impact on the type of hairstyle that will work best for you.
- Fine Hair. If you have fine hair, you may want to consider a shorter hairstyle with layers to add some volume and movement. Avoid heavy, blunt cuts that can make fine hair look limp and lifeless.
- Thick Hair. If you have thick hair, you can pull off longer hairstyles with ease. Consider a layered cut or a blunt bob to show off your natural volume and texture.
- Curly Hair. If you have curly hair, you’ll want to choose a hairstyle that works with your natural texture. Consider a layered cut that enhances your curls or a short, textured cut that shows off your curls.
- Straight Hair. If you have straight hair, you can pull off almost any hairstyle. Consider a sleek, straight bob or a layered cut with face-framing layers to add some texture and movement.
Step 3: Consider Your Lifestyle
If you have a busy schedule, it’s better to opt for a low-maintenance haircut that can save you time and energy, allowing you to focus on what matters most. On the other hand, if you enjoy spending time styling your hair and experimenting with different looks, you may want to choose a more high-maintenance cut.
Overall, choosing the right hairstyle for your face shape is all about balance and symmetry. Your barber can help guide you through the process and recommend styles that will work best for you.
