Understanding the Inverted Triangle Face Shape
An inverted triangle face shape features a broad forehead and cheekbones that taper to a narrow jawline. Common among celebrities like Scarlett Johansson and Anja Rubik, this face shape benefits from hairstyles that create width at the jaw and soften the forehead’s prominence. The goal is to visually balance proportions, ensuring the upper face doesn’t overpower delicate facial features.
7 Hairstyles to Balance an Inverted Triangle Face
1. Collarbone-Length Bob with Curtain Bangs
Why It Works: A collarbone-grazing bob adds weight to the lower face, countering a narrow jaw. Curtain bangs—long, face-framing layers parted at the center—diffuse a wide forehead by drawing attention to the eyes.
Styling Tip: Blow-dry with a round brush to flip ends outward, creating subtle volume at the jawline. Use a heat protectant spray like Olaplex No.9 Bond Protector to maintain healthy strands.
2. Layered Lob with Side-Swept Fringe
Why It Works: A long bob (lob) with diagonal layers starting at the chin creates width where needed. A deep side part and side-swept fringe minimize forehead width while adding softness.
Styling Tip: Apply Bumble and Bumble Thickening Dryspun Texture Spray to roots for lift, then curl ends under with a 1.5” iron for polished bounce.
3. Wavy Shag with Face-Framing Pieces
Why It Works: The shag’s choppy layers add movement around the jaw, balancing the face’s upper half. Wispy pieces near the cheekbones soften angular features.
Styling Tip: Enhance waves with Moroccanoil Curl Control Mousse and scrunch hair while air-drying. Avoid center parts, which exaggerate forehead width.
4. Textured Pixie with Tousled Crown
Why It Works: A pixie cut with volume at the crown shifts focus upward, while tapered sides prevent overwhelming delicate jaws.
Styling Tip: Work R+Co Dallas Thickening Cream through damp hair, then blow-dry forward for piece-y texture. Keep sides neatly trimmed to maintain proportion.
5. Soft Waves with Voluminous Ends
Why It Works: Loose waves starting below the ears add bulk to the lower face. This style works for long hair, creating balance without drastic cuts.
Styling Tip: Wrap 2” sections around a curling wand, alternating directions. Finish with Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray for beachy separation.
6. Blunt Bangs with Shoulder-Length Layers
Why It Works: Blunt, eyebrow-grazing bangs shorten the forehead’s appearance, while shoulder-length layers widen the jaw area.
Styling Tip: Use a flat iron to smooth bangs, then spritz Kenra Platinum Silkening Gloss for shine. Avoid overly straight styles, which lengthen the face.
7. Half-Updo with Braided Accents
Why It Works: Half-up styles pull hair away from the forehead, creating vertical height. A loose braid or twist at the crown adds width at the temples.
Styling Tip: Tease roots gently before securing the top section. Leave face-framing tendrils to soften sharp angles.
Styling Strategies for Optimal Balance
Product Recommendations by Hair Type
- Fine Hair: Living Proof Full Dry Volume Blast (root lift) + Verb Ghost Weightless Hair Oil (ends)
- Curly Hair: DevaCurl SuperCream Coconut Curl Styler (definition) + Ouidad Advanced Climate Control Gel (frizz control)
- Thick Hair: Redken Softening Lotion (manageability) + Amika Velveteen Dream Matte Paste (texture)
Avoid These Common Mistakes
- Overly Straight Styles: Flat, sleek hair elongates the face and emphasizes the forehead.
- High Ponytails: Pulling hair tightly upward accentuates the face’s triangular shape.
- Short, Tapered Layers: Layers ending at the jawline exaggerate narrowness instead of countering it.
Cultural & Ethical Considerations
While drawing inspiration from global trends, avoid appropriating sacred styles like traditional Native American braids or Bantu knots. Opt for secular adaptations or consult cultural guides when integrating specific techniques.
Maintenance & Salon Tips
Key Questions to Ask Your Stylist
- “Can we add layers starting at my cheekbones to widen my jaw?”
- “Will curtain bangs work with my cowlicks?”
- “How often should I trim to maintain volume at the ends?”
At-Home Care Routine
- Wash: 2-3x weekly with sulfate-free shampoo to preserve natural oils.
- Blow-Dry: Focus on lifting roots with a concentrator nozzle.
- Night Care: Secure hair in a loose topknot with a silk scrunchie to prevent friction.
