In this day and age, men are more likely to use their facial hair to convey a certain persona or style. So, it’s important to know how to choose a beard that flatters your face shape.

While every face is unique, Best Beard Styles for Different Face Shapes fall into one of four primary shapes: oval, square, rectangular/oblong & triangular (where the jaw is wider than the forehead). Knowing which shape you are helps you make the best choice for your beard. The best beard styles for each shape are designed to highlight a man’s chin & cheekbones, add length to the face if necessary and balance out a wide or narrow jawline.

Round Face

Guys with a rounded face have the luxury of being able to carry off most beard styles, including full beards and goatees. However, it’s best to avoid beards that add too much width and opt for more sculpted styles like a stiletto beard or van dyke beard. A chin strap or soul patch can also add definition and balance.

Heart-Shaped Face

Guys who have a heart-shaped face usually have wider foreheads with a narrower, pointed chin. The goal is to balance out these proportions with a beard that adds weight to the chin, creating the effect of a fuller vase. Therefore, styles that create a fuller chin are ideal, such as a Garibaldi or a classic full beard.

Guys with a square-shaped face want to balance out their sharp features with a full beard that highlights their defined chin line. However, they should stay away from a style that makes their faces look wider and go for closely-cropped options instead, such as a buzz cut or stubble.