Choosing the right haircut for your face shape can transform your look, boost your confidence, and highlight your best features. For those with a long face shape, the goal is to create balance by adding width, softening angles, and shortening the appearance of the face. This guide breaks down everything you need to know—from identifying your face shape to styling tips—to help you find the perfect haircut.
Understanding a Long Face Shape
A long face (also called oblong or rectangular) is characterized by the following:
- Length > Width: The face is noticeably longer than it is wide.
- High Forehead: The forehead may appear tall or broad.
- Prominent Chin: The jawline is often angular or elongated.
- Straight Cheekbones: Cheekbones lack significant curvature.
If your face measures much longer vertically than horizontally, you likely fall into this category. Hairstyles for long faces aim to visually widen the face and reduce vertical emphasis.
Why the Right Haircut Matters
A poorly chosen haircut can make a long face appear even longer or narrower. The right style, however, can:
- Add volume at the sides to create width.
- Use layers or bangs to shorten the face.
- Soften sharp angles for a more balanced look.
- Draw attention to your eyes, cheekbones, or lips.
General Guidelines for Long Face Haircuts
Follow these rules when selecting a style:
- Add Volume at the Sides: Width at the cheeks or jawline balances length.
- Avoid Excessive Length: Hair past the collarbone can drag the face downward.
- Embrace Layers and Texture: These break up straight lines and add movement.
- Use Bangs Wisely: Horizontal bangs shorten the forehead; side-swept bangs add softness.
- Avoid Severe Center Parts: These emphasize verticality. Opt for side parts instead.
Best Haircuts for Long Faces
Below are seven haircuts that flatter long face shapes, with styling tips for each.
Layered Haircuts
Why It Works: Layers add volume and movement, breaking up the face’s vertical lines.
Types of Layers:
Long Layers: Start below the chin to add subtle body.
Medium Layers: Focus volume at the cheekbones.
Short Layers: Add bounce around the crown (ideal for curly hair).
Styling Tips:
- Use a volumizing mousse on damp hair before blow-drying.
- Curl ends outward with a flat iron to widen the face.
Best For: All hair types, especially straight or wavy hair.
Bobs and Lob Cuts
Why It Works: Chin-length bobs or lobs (long bobs) hit at the jawline, creating horizontal width.
Classic Bob: Ends at the chin or jaw.
Lob (Long Bob): Ends at the collarbone; add waves for texture.
A-Line Bob: Shorter in the back, longer in front to frame the face.
Styling Tips:
- Flip ends outward with a round brush.
- Add loose waves for a relaxed look.
Best For: Straight, wavy, or slightly curly hair.
Bangs (Fringe)
Why It Works: Bangs shorten the forehead and draw eyes upward.
Blunt Bangs: Thick, straight-across bangs create a strong horizontal line.
Side-Swept Bangs: Soft, diagonal bangs add width at the temples.
Curtain Bangs: Parted in the middle, blending into face-framing layers.
Styling Tips:
- Keep bangs at eyebrow length to avoid overwhelming the face.
- Use a light hairspray to maintain shape.
Best For: All hair types, but avoid heavy bangs if you have fine hair.
Soft Waves and Curls
Why It Works: Waves add volume at the sides, softening the face’s length.
Loose Beach Waves: Use a curling wand for effortless texture.
Spiral Curls: Opt for mid-length curls to avoid elongating the face.
Styling Tips:
- Apply sea salt spray for tousled waves.
- Scrunch hair upward while drying to boost volume.
Best For: Naturally wavy or curly hair; can be created with heat tools.
Pixie Cuts with Volume
Why It Works: Short pixies with volume at the crown add height, balancing the face’s length.
Textured Pixie: Choppy layers create a playful, wide shape.
Side-Swept Pixie: Longer bangs sweep across the forehead.
Styling Tips:
- Use a matte paste for piecey texture.
- Blow-dry the crown upward for lift.
Best For: Bold personalities with fine to medium hair.
Side-Parted Styles
Why It Works: A deep side part shifts focus horizontally and adds asymmetry.
Deep Side Part: Part hair at the temple to create volume on one side.
Asymmetrical Cut: Pair a side part with uneven lengths for drama.
Styling Tips:
- Tease roots gently for extra volume.
- Secure with bobby pins for a polished look.
Best For: All hair lengths and textures.
Shag or Razor Cuts
Why It Works: Shaggy layers add texture and width, distracting from length.
70s Shag: Feathered layers and fringe.
Modern Razor Cut: Soft, wispy ends for movement.
Styling Tips:
- Scrunch with texturizing spray for a lived-in look.
- Highlight face-framing pieces for dimension.
Best For: Thick or coarse hair.
Hairstyles to Avoid
- Extra-Long Straight Hair: Lengthens the face; opt for shoulder-length cuts instead.
- Sleek High Ponytails/Buns: Pulls hair back, emphasizing length.
- Center Parts: Accentuates symmetry; switch to a side part.
- Vertical Styles: Spiky updos or tight braids elongate the face.
Styling Tips & Maintenance
- Root Lifter: Apply at the crown for instant volume.
- Wide-Round Brush: Use when blow-drying to flip ends outward.
- Texturizing Spray: Adds grit for easier styling.
- Regular Trims: Maintain shape every 6–8 weeks.
Consulting a Professional
A skilled stylist can tailor these ideas to your hair type, lifestyle, and preferences. Bring photos to your appointment and discuss:
- Your daily styling routine.
- Hair thickness and texture.
- Bold vs. low-maintenance preferences.
Conclusion
A long face shape is beautifully balanced with the right haircut. Focus on styles that add width, shorten the face, and embrace texture. Whether you choose a layered lob, side-swept bangs, or a voluminous pixie, the key is to experiment and find what makes you feel confident. Remember, hair grows back—don’t be afraid to try something new!
Related topics:
5 Best Haircut for Shoulder Length Hair
Unlock the Secrets of Layered Haircuts: A Comprehensive Guide
Choosing 5 Best Haircut for Long Curly Hair: A Quick Guide
