Knowing your face shape is crucial for choosing flattering hairstyles, makeup techniques, and even eyewear. While subjective estimations can be misleading, using precise measurements provides a foolproof method for accurate determination. This guide offers practical advice on how to easily measure your face and identify your shape with confidence.
Tools You'll Need:
- A flexible tape measure: A soft tape measure is essential for accurate measurements. Avoid using a rigid ruler, as it won't conform to the curves of your face.
- A mirror: A large mirror will allow you to see your reflection clearly while taking measurements.
- Pen and paper: To record your measurements and compare them to the face shape descriptions below.
Step-by-Step Measurement Guide:
- Forehead Width: Measure the widest part of your forehead, typically across your temples.
- Cheekbone Width: Place the tape measure across the fullest part of your cheekbones, usually just above your ears.
- Jawline Width: Measure the widest part of your jawline, typically from just below your ears.
- Face Length: Measure from the center of your hairline to the tip of your chin.
Identifying Your Face Shape Based on Measurements:
Once you have your measurements, compare them to the descriptions below to determine your face shape. Remember, these are guidelines, and some faces might fall between categories.
Oval Face Shape:
- Characteristics: Face length is longer than the cheekbone width. The forehead is slightly wider than the jawline, creating a gently curved oval shape.
- Measurement Example: Face length is approximately 1.5 times the cheekbone width.
Round Face Shape:
- Characteristics: The face length and cheekbone width are nearly equal. The jawline is softly rounded, with no sharp angles.
- Measurement Example: Face length is roughly equal to the cheekbone width.
Square Face Shape:
- Characteristics: The face length, cheekbone width, and jawline width are all approximately equal. The jawline is strong and angular.
- Measurement Example: Face length, cheekbone width, and jawline width are similar in measurement.
Heart Face Shape (or Inverted Triangle):
- Characteristics: The forehead is the widest part of the face, tapering down to a narrower chin. The cheekbones are wider than the jawline.
- Measurement Example: Forehead width is significantly larger than both cheekbone width and jawline width.
Long Face Shape (or Rectangular):
- Characteristics: Face length is significantly longer than the cheekbone and jawline width. The forehead, cheekbones, and jawline are roughly the same width.
- Measurement Example: Face length is noticeably greater than the cheekbone and jawline widths.
Diamond Face Shape:
- Characteristics: The cheekbones are the widest part of the face, with a narrower forehead and jawline. The face length is longer than the width of the cheekbones.
- Measurement Example: Cheekbone width is greater than both forehead and jawline width, with face length slightly longer.
Triangle Face Shape (or Pear):
- Characteristics: The jawline is the widest part of the face, wider than both the forehead and cheekbones.
- Measurement Example: Jawline width is significantly larger than both forehead and cheekbone width.
Beyond the Measurements:
While measurements provide a scientific approach, consider observing the overall shape of your face in the mirror. The measurements are a guide; the overall visual impression is equally important.
Conclusion:
By using this precise method of measuring your face, you can confidently determine your face shape and use this knowledge to enhance your personal style. Remember to consider both the measurements and your visual impression for the most accurate result!