Beauty
Fact-checked

At BeautyAnswered, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What Are the Features of an Oval Face Shape?

Dee Jones
Dee Jones

According to many, the oval face shape is the ideal face shape, as it has nearly perfect proportions, and has an almost perfect balance. People with oval shaped faces can wear almost any hairstyle, and they don’t have to depend on as many makeup tricks like contouring. One of the characteristics of an oval face shape is that it’s the jaw line is often a bit more narrow than the temple line. Oval shaped faces also tend to have very prominent cheekbones. The oval face shape is similar to the heart-shaped face but, while a heart shaped face tapers to a defined, pointy chin, an oval face narrows to an oval chin. On an oval face, the jaw line is much less prominent than it is with other face shapes.

When it comes to choosing hairstyles, those with oval shaped faces are very lucky because they can look good with almost any hair style. Shoulder length hairstyles look very flattering on many who have this face shape. While the cheekbones are already prominent, a short hairstyle that angles towards the jawbone will accentuate them even more. Those with oval faces also tend to look good with the hair pulled back and up. The only hairstyles an individual with an oval face shape might want to avoid are those that fall foreword into her face, as this can throw off the nearly perfect balance of her face shape.

Oval shaped faces have rounded edges and balanced vertical proportions.
Oval shaped faces have rounded edges and balanced vertical proportions.

While many use contouring to try to diminish or enhance the prominence of some area of the face, those with oval shaped faces usually don’t find this necessary. Many find, however, that making the cheekbones more prominent is both striking and flattering. Applying blush directly beneath the cheekbones and then sweeping it up towards the temples will make them stand out more. Another way to accentuate the cheekbones is by applying a lighter shade of foundation to the area around the eyes, area around the nose, and to the lower forehead.

Blush is often used to accentuate the cheekbones of an oval face.
Blush is often used to accentuate the cheekbones of an oval face.

There are other ways to enhance an oval face shape. Bold earrings, like hoops or earrings that dangle, can complement this face shape as long as the earrings aren’t too big or long, or they could make the face look too long and unbalanced. Avoid glasses or sunglasses that are too large because they can overpower the face. Glasses that are no wider than the widest part of the face will be more flattering.

Discussion Comments

ddljohn
@turquoise-- I would recommend avoiding blush altogether, or apply a very small amount. Blush tends to make oval faces look even longer than they are. It's better to keep the blush light for that reason. A very light application of cheek tint might be a better option.

Also, I prefer more basic eye makeup looks and more striking lips for women with oval shaped faces. I think it brings out the lips and eyes the best way.

turquoise

I have an oval face and I need makeup tips. What should I do or what should I avoid to look more beautiful?

SarahGen

I think that women with an oval face shape are the most beautiful. My favorite female celebrity has an oval face. She has long hair but just like the article said, she looks great in any hair style. The best part about her are her cheekbones. Even when she's not wearing any makeup, her cheekbones are very visible. Her face just looks perfectly chiseled. I know men find her very sexy because of that as well.

I have a round face and literally no cheekbones, so I really admire women who have an oval face.

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Oval shaped faces have rounded edges and balanced vertical proportions.
      By: Subbotina Anna
      Oval shaped faces have rounded edges and balanced vertical proportions.
    • Blush is often used to accentuate the cheekbones of an oval face.
      By: Subbotina Anna
      Blush is often used to accentuate the cheekbones of an oval face.
    • Beauty professionals recommend different cosmetics depending on an individual's face shape.
      By: Minerva Studio
      Beauty professionals recommend different cosmetics depending on an individual's face shape.