The Oval Face

The shape of your face is something you are born with, and barring surgical intervention, the one that will be with you forever.

There are several basic face shapes, round, oval, heart shaped, long and square. Of these, the oval has always been considered the most proportionate and pleasing to the eye. So, if you're an oval – you are off to a good start!

Famous Oval Faces

An oval face shape is generally a third narrower than it is long. Famous oval faces include Jennifer Aniston, Elle Macpherson, Audrey Hepburn and Catherine Zeta-Jones.

If you have an oval face, choose a hairstyle that accentuates your strongest feature – your eyes, lips or cheekbones, with soft layers to draw attention.

You can choose from so many hairstyles – it is worth asking your hairdresser for advice, and experiment with colour, texture and length. You don't need to choose one hairstyle for life – it is fun to vary your style.

Care for Your Skin

Skin care is the same no matter what your face shape. It is important to take good care of your skin. Nourish it from within with plenty of sleep, good nutrition, no smoking and good hydration.

On the outside, clean your skin twice a day and moisturise regularly. There are a huge variety of face-grade oils on the market which make your skin feel gorgeous and have other properties, to help control sun spots and scars for example. Never forget your sunscreen – sun damage is responsible for far more wrinkles that laughter will ever be. Many moisturisers contain sunscreen, but always check.

Recent research has shown that sleeping in makeup can add years to your face – always have a night time routine to wash and moisturise your face and let the skin rest overnight.

Makeup for an Oval Face

During the day however, a little bit of makeup can make you feel wonderful, regardless of your face shape! Again, experiment and try not to get stuck in a rut – next time you have to buy foundation for example, take the time to ask if you are using the best product for your skin type and age. Skin primers can help achieve a smoother and more professional finish with foundation.

An oval face is easy to apply makeup to. It is a good idea to choose one feature to accentuate. During the day, a good foundation, a sweep of blush on the cheeks, a little mascara and lip gloss should be enough. For evening or special occasion makeup, you may like more shadow or a bolder lipstick. If you have a big event planned, practice a new makeup or hairstyle beforehand, to make sure it works for you.