4 Easy Ways to Finally Figure Out Your Face Shape

  Reading time 5 minutes

Understanding your face shape is essential, not just for aesthetics but for making informed decisions about hairstyles, glasses, and makeup techniques that best complement your natural features. Finding out your face shape might seem challenging at first, but it’s simpler than you might think. Below, we delve into four straightforward methods to help you identify your face shape accurately, ensuring that you can confidently make style choices tailored just for you.

1. Measure Your Face with Precision

Woman measures her face with a ruler in the mirror, surrounded by skincare products.

The most accurate method to determine your face shape is by taking precise measurements of different sections of your face. This process involves measuring your forehead, cheekbones, jawline, and face length, which altogether provide the necessary data to pinpoint your face shape. Start by measuring your forehead from one end to the other at the widest point—just above your eyebrows. Next, measure the length across your cheekbones. Then, take the distance from the base of your ear near the jawline to the tip of your chin. Lastly, measure the length of your face from the hairline to the bottom of the chin. By comparing these measurements, you can identify whether your face is oval, round, square, or heart-shaped.

2. Analyze Your Jawline

Makeup artist applying makeup on a woman in a salon.

Your jawline can provide vital clues to your face shape. Observing whether your jaw is rounded, pointed, or square can help determine your face shape category. If your jaw is rounded and not pointed, you might have a round or oval face shape. A pointed chin is often indicative of a heart-shaped face, while a square chin aligns more with a square face shape. To better visualize, stand in front of a mirror and trace your jawline with an eyeliner pencil. Stepping back, you can see the full outline and compare it with known face shape outlines.

3. Evaluate Your Face’s Length and Width

Examining the ratio between the length and width of your face is another method to determine your face shape. Measure the length from the top of your forehead (hairline) to the bottom of your chin. Then, record the width by measuring the space from the left to the right side of your face at its widest point. Faces longer than they are wide typically fall into the oval category, whereas equal measurements may suggest a round face. A more significant length compared to width can also indicate an oblong face shape, offering a distinct category that separates itself from others.

4. Use a Face Shape App

In the digital age, there’s no shortage of technological solutions to solve old-fashioned dilemmas, including identifying your face shape. Several smartphone apps analyze your face’s structure through a simple photo. These apps use facial recognition technology to assess measurements and angles, providing an immediate and often accurate suggestion of your face shape. While results are automated and should be taken with a pinch of accuracy, they offer an excellent starting point for those unsure about their measurements or observational conclusions. Some popular choices include YouCam Makeup and FaceShape Finder, which are user-friendly and widely praised.

Conclusion

Determining your face shape doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With a blend of precise measurements, visual analysis, and even app technology, anyone can identify their face type and tailor their personal style appropriately. Whether you rely on manual methods or digital apps, knowing your face shape can enhance your confidence in choosing flattering hairstyles, makeup, and accessories. Take the first step today by choosing one of the methods mentioned and embrace the styles that suit you best.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. How do face shape measurements work?

    Face shape measurements work by comparing the dimensions of key facial areas such as the forehead, cheekbones, jawline, and face length to determine their proportionality and characteristics.

  2. Can my face shape change over time?

    Yes, natural aging, weight gain or loss, and other factors can subtly alter the appearance of your face shape over time, although significant changes are uncommon.

  3. Is it necessary to use an app to find my face shape?

    No, it is not necessary. While apps can offer convenience, manual measurements and visual observations are also effective methods for identifying your face shape.

  4. What’s the most common face shape?

    The oval face shape is often considered the most common due to its balanced proportions and versatility in styling options.

  5. Can a hairstylist help me determine my face shape?

    Yes, hairstylists are often experienced in evaluating face shapes and can help you identify yours, as well as recommend styles that suit you best.