The Ultimate Guide to Face Shapes and Haircuts for Men

Finding the perfect haircut can feel like navigating a maze. You know you want to look sharp, but with so many styles, it’s tough to know where to start. The key? Your face shape. Just like a good tailor knows how to flatter your physique, understanding your face shape helps you choose a haircut that highlights your best features.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about face shapes and haircuts for men. We’ll help you determine your face shape and then dive into the most flattering hairstyles for each. Whether you’re after a classic cut or something trendy, we’ve got you covered.

Determining Your Face Shape

Before diving into haircuts, let’s determine your face shape. Grab a flexible measuring tape and take note of these key measurements:

Forehead: Measure across the widest part of your forehead.
Cheekbones: Measure from the outermost corner of one cheekbone to the other.
Jawline: Measure from the tip of your chin to the angle of your jaw below your ear. Multiply this measurement by two.
Face Length: Measure from the center of your hairline to the tip of your chin.

Now, compare your measurements to these common face shapes:

Oval: Forehead slightly wider than jawline, cheekbones prominent, face gently rounded at the top and bottom.
Round: Face length and cheekbones similar in width, rounded jawline, less angular features.
Square: All measurements relatively similar, strong jawline, angular features.
Oblong: Face length is longest measurement, forehead, cheekbones, and jawline similar in width.
Diamond: Forehead and jawline narrower than cheekbones, cheekbones the widest point of the face.
Heart: Forehead widest, cheekbones slightly narrower, and jawline the narrowest point, often with a pointed chin.
Triangle: Jawline wider than cheekbones, cheekbones wider than forehead.

Once you’ve determined your face shape, you can start exploring haircuts that complement your unique features.

Haircuts for Oval Faces

Considered the most balanced face shape, oval faces can pull off a wide range of styles.

Classic cuts: Think side part, slicked back, or a French crop.
Experiment with length: From short and textured to medium-length waves, don’t be afraid to play around.
Facial hair: A light stubble or a well-groomed beard can accentuate the jawline.

Pro Tip from Master Barber, Anthony Lombardi: “Oval faces are lucky. They have more freedom to experiment with different lengths and styles. However, avoid heavy bangs that might hide the forehead and make the face appear rounder.”

Haircuts for Round Faces

The goal for round faces is to create the illusion of length and angles.

Add volume on top: A pompadour, quiff, or undercut adds height, making the face appear longer.
Keep sides short: A fade or taper on the sides slims the face.
Avoid rounded styles: Steer clear of buzz cuts or bowl cuts that emphasize the roundness.

Pro Tip from Anthony: “A side part with volume on top can instantly elongate a round face. Just make sure the sides are kept neat and tidy.”

Haircuts for Square Faces

Square faces benefit from styles that soften the angles and add some length.

Medium length with texture: A textured quiff or messy fringe adds movement and softens the jawline.
Side-swept bangs: Break up the squareness of the forehead and add a touch of softness.
Avoid harsh lines: Sharp, angular cuts can accentuate the jawline, so opt for softer styles.

Pro Tip from Anthony: “A layered haircut with a bit of wave can create a flattering balance for a square face.”

Haircuts for Oblong Faces

The key for oblong faces is to add width and fullness to create a more balanced look.

Sides with volume: Avoid shaving the sides too short. Opt for styles with fuller sides like a classic side part or a textured crop.
Facial hair for width: A full beard can help balance the face’s length.
Avoid too much height on top: High fades or pompadours can make the face appear even longer.

Pro Tip from Anthony: ” A well-maintained beard can work wonders for an oblong face. It adds width and creates a more harmonious look.”

Haircuts for Diamond Faces

Diamond faces are widest at the cheekbones and need hairstyles that balance the narrow forehead and jawline.

Volume at the sides: Create width at the forehead with a side-swept fringe or a textured crop with volume at the temples.
Soften the hairline: Avoid hairstyles with a sharp, defined part.
Facial hair strategically: A light stubble or a goatee can add width to the jawline.

Pro Tip from Anthony: “A textured fringe can work wonders for a diamond face. It adds width to the forehead and balances the cheekbones.”

Haircuts for Heart Faces

Haircuts for heart-shaped faces should minimize the width of the forehead and add fullness to the jawline.

Longer hairstyles: Styles that fall below the ears can help balance the forehead and chin. Think flowy layers or a textured bob.
Side-swept bangs: Softly cover part of the forehead to minimize its width.
Add volume at the bottom: A beard or stubble can help balance the narrow chin.

Pro Tip from Anthony: “A layered haircut with volume at the sides can create a flattering silhouette for a heart-shaped face.”

Haircuts for Triangle Faces

With a wider jawline than forehead, triangle faces need hairstyles that add width to the top and minimize the jaw’s prominence.

Volume on top: Styles like a quiff, pompadour, or faux hawk add height and balance the face.
Keep sides short: A fade or taper helps slim the jawline.
Avoid chin straps or beards that accentuate the jaw.

Pro Tip from Anthony: “A classic side part with volume on top is a great option for a triangle face. It adds balance and creates a sleek look.”

Conclusion

Finding the right haircut for your face shape can make a huge difference in your overall look. Remember, these are just guidelines, and the best haircut for you will depend on your individual features and personal style. Don’t be afraid to experiment and consult with a skilled barber who can help you choose a style that flatters your face shape and makes you look and feel your best.