Style is the reason for recognizing different face shapes. Professional hairstylists and makeup artists instinctively rely on their knowledge about face shapes to deliver their best work to their clients.
If you are unsure about your own face shape, this little two step exercise should help.
Step 1
Record all the following measurements:
Starting at the outer edge of your
left cheekbone, measure straight across (horizontally) to the outer-edge of the right
cheekbone.
Starting at the widest point of your jaw line, measure horizontally from jaw line to jaw line.
Halfway on your forehead between your eyebrows and hairline, measure across from temple to temple.
Measure vertically from the
top center-point of your hairline, (if you have a widow's peak, start
there) and measure straight down to the center-bottom of your chin.
Step 2
Using your measurements, look at the definitions below for different face shapes. Images are provided to also help you.
Results:
Oval
θ
Length equals one and one-half times the width.
Oblong
θ
Length is noticeably longer than its width. Think actress Jessica Parker.
Heart
♥
Narrower at the jaw line that what it is at the cheekbone or forehead.
Square
〈
Length is as long as it is wide.
Rectangle
Ξ
A rectangular face looks very rectangular. The forehead and jawbone measure the same, and the face is longer, than a square face.
Triangle
∇
Forehead is low; jaw line narrow; and cheekbones wide.
Diamond
♦
The forehead and jawbone are almost the same; cheekbones are wider.
Rectangle 
