Determining Your Face Shape

• The simplest formula in determining face shape is tracing it after a hot shower. Your bathroom mirror should steam over but the outline of your face will still be visible. Stand in front of the mirror and trace the outline of your face with an eyeliner pencil, lipstick or your fingertip. Face shapes range from oval, triangular, round, square and heart shaped. If you are think you could be two of these shapes, ask a friend what she thinks.
  
  

Oval Face Shape

• This is the easiest face shape to have because most hairstyles are flattering. What you need to consider if you have an oval face shape is your hair texture. A bob will look great if you have straight, fine hair and long layers will look sexy with wavy, thick hair.
  
  

Square Face Shape

• Square face shapes look best with side-swept bangs that hit at the eyebrows or cheekbones. This will help soften the angle of your jawline. Long layers also help soften your look. It is best to keep your hair length for this face shape. Short hair that hits at your chin will only widen your jaw.
  
  

Triangular Face Shape

• This face shape works best with high volume styles. A short choppy shag will look really pretty and help balance out the line of your jaw. Thick, blunt bangs can also help widen your very slender forehead and give the impression of an oval-shaped face.
  
  

Round Face Shape

• Round faces need to try to lengthen their face. The best way to do that is through layered cuts that add volume at the crown. Face frames can also help make a round face seem slimmer.
  
  

Heart-Shaped Face

• If you have a heart-shaped face, you'll want to add width at your chin. Cut your hair at shoulder length and add layers, which will help widen the jaw area. If you want a longer style, your hair texture needs to be wavy or curly to help balance out a pointy chin.
  
  

Ask a Stylist

• Set up an appointment at a hair salon for a consultation. The hairstylist can help you look through different hairstyles and help you understand your hair texture. Your hairstylist can advise you on looks that are easy for you to maintain. The stylist will also help you examine other options in hairstyling, such as highlights and coloring.