Getting bangs might be a great solution if you are looking for a way to elevate your daily look without the need for a lengthy hair maintenance routine in the mornings. Celebrities like Taylor Swift help keep bangs trendy, but there’s more than trends to consider before getting bangs. A bang trim that flatters one face shape might not be the best choice for another. 

Keep reading to discover the key steps to make sure your brand-new bangs are a success. 

Steps to Choosing the Perfect Bang Trim

Without further ado, let’s delve right into it.

Step #1: Identify the Shape of Your Face

We are all acquainted with the diversity of facial shapes, ranging from square and heart-shaped to oblong, round, and oval profiles. But how do you determine it? Here are some tips on figuring out the shape of your face.

To begin with, gather the necessary materials:

  • A mirror
  • A ruler or a measuring tape
  • A piece of string (optional)
  • Tie back or pin your hair away from your face to get a clear view of your facial contours.

Next, take measurements of the key dimensions of your face:

Forehead

Measure across your forehead from the widest point (typically just above your eyebrows).

Cheekbones

Measure across your cheekbones, starting from the point below the outer corner of one eye to the other eye.

Jawline

Measure from the tip of your chin to the point below your earlobe.

Face Length

Measure from the center of your hairline down to the tip of your chin.

Now it’s time to determine the shape of your face!

Oval

The length of the face is greater than the width, with gently rounded contours. The forehead and jawline are approximately the same width.

Round

The width and length of the face are nearly equal. The jawline is softer, and the cheekbones are the widest part of the face.

Square

The forehead, cheekbones, and jawline are of similar width. The angles of the jawline are more defined, creating a square appearance.

Heart or Inverted Triangle

The forehead is wider than the cheekbones and jawline. The chin is pointed or narrower.

Diamond

The cheekbones are the widest part of the face, with a narrower forehead and jawline. The face is more angular.

Rectangle or Oblong

The face is longer than it is wide, with a more elongated shape. The forehead, cheekbones, and jawline have similar widths.

Triangle

The jawline is wider than the forehead, and the face tapers down to a pointed chin.

Step #2: Take a Look at Different Bangs Styles

Now that you have identified the shape of your face, it’s time to consider your options.

Bangs for Square and Heart-Shaped Faces

Side-swept or wispy bangs are a perfect way to soften strong, angular jawlines and equally wide foreheads in those who have square faces. These styles do wonders for creating the illusion of a less pronounced jawline. A rule of thumb is to avoid heavy, blunt bangs, as they can emphasize the angular features of your face.

Side-swept bangs or curtain bangs that hit just above the eyebrows are ideal for heart-shaped faces, as they draw attention away from the forehead and create a lovely frame for your face.

Bangs for Oblong Faces

Blunt, eyebrow-grazing bangs are a perfect match with oblong faces, as they help create the illusion of a shorter face and make your features appear more balanced.

Bangs for Round Faces

Choppy, layered, or asymmetrical bangs create vertical lines, adding some angles and definition to your round face. They also visually elongate your features. 

Bangs for Oval-Shaped Faces

Oval faces are considered the most versatile because they are naturally well-balanced. If you have an oval face, you have the freedom to choose from various bang styles, such as blunt bangs, side-swept bangs, or even wispy, airy bangs. Experiment and find the one that makes you feel the most confident and matches your personal style.

Step #3: Consider Trending Bangs

Once you come up with a list of options that are flattering for your face shape, how do you make the final decision? Reviewing 2023 bangs trends may prove to be inspirational. Some of the most popular types of bangs are:

  • Curtain bangs (fit all face shapes)
  • Straight bangs (flat oval faces)
  • Blunt cut bangs (flat oblong faces)
  • Bottleneck bangs (flat round faces)
  • Baby bangs (flatter heart and square shapes)

How to Take Care of Your Bangs

A close-up of a hairdresser trimming baby bangs.

To keep your bangs looking fresh and stylish, follow these tips on how to take care of them:

Regular Trimming:

Visit your hairstylist every 2-4 weeks for a quick trim to keep them at the desired length.

Shampoo and Conditioning:

Wash your bangs regularly to prevent them from getting greasy and flat. Use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner. Be sure to rinse thoroughly to avoid product buildup.

Blow-Drying:

Blow-dry your bangs in the direction you want them to fall. This helps set their shape and adds volume. Use a round brush to give them a slight curve, which can make them look more polished.

Protection from Heat:

When using heat styling tools, like flat irons or curling wands, use a heat protectant spray to shield your bangs from heat damage.

Styling Products:

Use styling products sparingly. A light-hold hair spray or smoothing serum can help control frizz and keep your bangs in place. Avoid heavy products that can make your bangs look greasy or stiff.

Training Your Bangs:

If you’re trying to achieve a particular style, like side-swept or straight-across bangs, use a flat iron or a straightening brush to set your bangs in place. You can also use bobby pins or hair clips to train your bangs while they dry.

Avoid Touching:

Try to avoid constantly touching or sweeping your bangs to the side. The natural oils from your fingers can make them look greasy and weigh them down.

Dealing with Humidity:

If you live in a humid climate, use anti-frizz products or a lightweight hairspray to keep your bangs from becoming frizzy or unruly. You can also carry a small travel-size hairspray in your bag for quick touch-ups throughout the day.

Dry Shampoo:

If your bangs become greasy between washes, apply a little dry shampoo to absorb excess oil. This can help refresh your bangs and keep them looking clean.

At Kate’s Kuts, we look forward to seeing you and making your dream bangs a reality. Our hair specialists can also make bangs style recommendations and help you choose the right style if you’re still undecided. Contact us today!