There are six main face shapes that many people have. The round face shape is one in which the width and the length of the face are approximately the same. Soft facial features, such as a rounded jaw line, differentiate the round face from other similar face shapes like the square face, which has hard, angular facial features. While it lends a more youthful look, it can also create a heavy-set look. This face shape also tends to be harder to emphasize various facial features.
In most cases, the round face is the same in length as it is in width, and the cheeks are the widest area on the face. The jaw tends to be round and approximately the same width as the forehead. Cheeks may be round and give a youthful, fuller appearance. It is also common for the hairline to mimic the roundness of the face. Although a characteristically round face may be easily identifiable, the recommended way to determine if a person has a rounded face is through measurements.
Although people with round face shapes may appear to look more youthful, some may also appear heavier in weight than they actually are with this face shape. For this reason, certain styles are recommended to help slim and lengthen this particular face shape. Both hairstyles and makeup are used to create angles and give the illusion of a longer face. Some accessories may also assist in doing this.
Finding suitable hairstyles for a round face is often the most important step in lengthening the face. Typically, men should opt for styles that have more volume at the top of the head and more trim around the sides. Side parts, waves and rounded goatees also suit men with round faces. Women should seek hairstyles that end at the chin or have angles near the face that end at the chin. Side parts and side-swept bangs go well with round face shapes, and soft curls or waves are preferred over straight, rounded or overly curly styles.
For a woman with a round face shape, makeup may be a practical option for adding angles to the face. Usually, adding highlights down the center of the face will emphasize the main focal points of the face. Darker concealer used under the cheekbone, around the jaw line, and on the temples may also help to create angles. Higher, arched eyebrows also suit this face shape. Accessories like high-crowned hats with irregular brims may also lengthen the round face shape as may angled glasses.