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Find Your Face Shape for the Perfect Haircut

How do I figure out my face shape for choosing a haircut?

Start with a quick at-home check using a mirror, good lighting, and a way to pull your hair fully back. Face shape is based on proportions—forehead, cheekbones, jawline, and overall length—so the goal is to compare widths and angles, not hunt for a “perfect” match.

Step 1: Pull hair back and trace the outline

Stand straight in front of a mirror and tuck every strand behind your ears. Using a washable marker (or lipstick), lightly trace the outer edge of your face on the mirror. Step back and look at the overall silhouette: is it more round, angular, long, or heart-like at the top?

Step 2: Measure four key areas

Use a flexible tape measure (or a ruler and string). Jot down:

Forehead width: across the widest point, usually midway between brows and hairline.
Cheekbone width: from the outer corner of one cheekbone to the other.
Jawline width: from chin tip to just below the ear, then double it.
Face length: from center hairline to chin.

Step 3: Match your proportions to common face shapes

Use these quick cues:

Oval: face length is about 1.5x the width; jaw is softly rounded.
Round: cheekbones and face length are similar; jaw is curved.
Square: forehead, cheekbones, and jaw are close in width; jaw is strong and angular.
Heart: wider forehead/cheekbones with a narrower, pointed chin.
Diamond: cheekbones are widest; forehead and jawline are narrower.
Rectangle/Oblong: longer face with similar widths through forehead, cheeks, and jaw.

Step 4: Use your face shape to guide haircut choices

Once you’ve identified your shape, you can choose cuts that balance or highlight features—like adding softness around a strong jaw or creating width where the face looks longer. For a deeper walkthrough and haircut suggestions by shape, visit this face-shape guide for choosing a haircut.

FAQ

Can I have more than one face shape?

Yes. Many people fall between two shapes, especially if their jawline and cheekbones suggest different categories. Pick the closest match and use it as a starting point, then adjust based on your hair texture and styling habits.