In this article
"What is my face shape?"
There are numerous face shapes, but many people get confused at the slight differences between diamond and oval shapes, given how similar they are.
But, as we prove in this article, the slight differences between diamond vs oval face shapes are important, as they can influence your styling decisions, including how to wear your hair.
So, join us as we explain how to tell the difference between oval and diamond face shapes and check out some ways to style your hair when you’ve settled on your face type.
Why do you need to know your face shape?
Understanding your face shape can be super helpful when it comes to deciding on the ideal hairstyle.
It can also help when choosing sunglasses and making a range of other fashion choices.
Knowing your face type can also help you to play with your dimensions and focus on which elements of your face you want to draw attention to.
There are numerous face types, including triangle, square, round, oval, diamond, rectangle, and heart.
In this article, we focus on the differences between diamond and oval face shapes, as these are the shapes that tend to be most often confused.
Oval vs. diamond face shape: The key differences
An oval face shape is somewhere between a square and a round face.
The cheeks are wide and the forehead is slightly narrow, while the face is longer than it is wide.
Most people with oval faces also have a rounded chin, which contrasts with more angular features found in square face types.
A diamond face shape is essentially a more angular version of the oval face, which is why the two shapes are often confused.
People with diamond-shaped faces have high cheeks with a slightly narrow and pointed chin.
Another distinguishing point is that the hairline tends to be more angular.
Check out the handy comparison table below so you can tell whether you have an oval or diamond-shaped face:
| Oval face | Diamond face | |
| Length | Longer than it is wide | Narrow forehead and a small chin |
| Forehead | The forehead’s width is smaller than the width of your cheekbones | The width of the forehead is smaller than the width of your cheekbones |
| Cheekbones | The widest part of your face | Significantly wider than your forehead and jawline |
| Jawline | No sharp angles and more of a rounded jawline | A narrow chin that tapers to a strong point |
How to determine the shape of your face?
Still unsure whether you have an oval or diamond-shaped face?
Follow these simple steps that will help you determine your face shape before styling your hair:
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Measure your forehead width: Use a ruler or tape measure to discern the width of your forehead at its widest point, measuring from hairline to hairline.
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Measure your cheekbone width: Then, using the same instrument, measure from the hairline above your cheekbone across your face to the same spot on the other side.
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Measure your jawline width: Step three is to measure the width of your jawline. You should start at the base of your jaw beneath your ears and measure to the middle of your chin. You can then multiply this measurement by two to get your full jawline width.
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Measure your face length: Finally, measure from the center of your hairline all the way to the tip of your chin.
Take note of all the measurements and use our handy table above to determine whether you have an oval or diamond face.
For instance, if your cheekbones are the widest part of your face, you probably have an oval face.
If you don’t fit into either category above, there’s a chance you could have a heart-shaped or even a square face.
Oval vs. diamond face shape men: Is the same process valid?
You can follow the same steps above to discern your face type, whether you’re a man or a woman.
However, note that women normally have smaller faces than men, with larger cheeks and chins.
This can influence how you measure and determine the shape of your face, but the general characteristics introduced above are still valid.
Hairdos for oval and diamond-shaped faces
Now you’ve determined which type of face you have – oval vs diamond – use our handy guide below to find some brilliant hairstyles that complement the shape of your face perfectly:
Oval face
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Short style for oval face type: Ruffled pixie
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Medium style for oval face type: Choppy long bob
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Long style for oval face type: Extra long curly locks
Diamond face
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Short style for diamond face type: Piecey pixie
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Medium style for diamond face type: Chic bob with side-swept bangs (Read the best bangs for women with diamond-shaped face.)
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Long style for diamond face type: Retro beachy waves
Final words
As you now know, there are subtle differences between diamond vs oval face shapes and understanding this should help you determine which type of face you have.
This knowledge can then help you style your hair in a way that flatters your facial features, and you can also make styling and makeup decisions that bring out your best facial features.
To help you style your hair, you can pick up hair dryers from our Laifen US official store with big discounts and no shipping fee.
FAQs
What is the main difference between a diamond and an oval face shape?
The main difference lies in proportions.
Diamond face shapes have the widest point at the cheekbones with a narrow forehead and jawline, while oval face shapes are longer than they are wide, featuring rounded edges and balanced proportions throughout the face.
How can I measure my face to determine if it’s diamond or oval?
Measure the width of your forehead, cheekbones, and jawline, along with the length of your face.
If your cheekbones are the widest point, you likely have a diamond face.
If your face length is greater than its width with smooth curves, it’s oval.
Are diamond face shapes rare compared to oval face shapes?
Yes, diamond face shapes are considered less common than oval face shapes.
Oval faces are often viewed as the most balanced and frequently occurring shape, while diamond faces stand out due to their sharp cheekbones and narrower forehead and chin.
Can hairstyles help identify my face shape?
Yes, certain hairstyles highlight facial structure.
If styles that add width at the forehead suit you best, you may have a diamond face.
Oval faces tend to suit almost all hairstyles, as their proportions remain balanced regardless of length or volume.
Do diamond and oval face shapes suit different glasses?
They do.
Diamond faces look best with frames that soften angles, such as oval or rimless styles.
Oval face shapes are highly versatile and can wear most frame shapes, from rectangular to round, without overpowering facial proportions.
Can my face shape change over time?
Your bone structure remains the same, but weight changes, aging, or facial hair can affect how your face shape appears.
These factors may make a diamond face look softer or an oval face appear longer, but the underlying face shape stays consistent.
Why is it important to know whether my face is diamond or oval?
Knowing your face shape helps you make informed choices about hairstyles, grooming tools, makeup placement, and accessories.
Choosing styles that complement your natural structure enhances symmetry, highlights your best features, and creates a more polished overall appearance.
