13 Hairstyles for Small Faces That Perfectly Balance Proportions

Hairstyles designed to frame and flatter petite faces.

Small faces are often seen as delicate and youthful, with a certain elfin quality. Finding hairstyles for small faces that don’t overpower your dainty features and bring your beauty to the fore can be life-changing. Choosing the right length, adding face-framing layers, or playing with volume in just the right places – what will you choose to highlight your petite face?

1. Side Twist

A side twist can add just the right touch to balance your face by adding a bit of volume and interest. To keep it in place, use a couple of discreet bobby pins or a stylish hair clip. Other than a twist, you could try a small braid or a cute barrette to achieve the same effect.

2. Soft Loopy Updo

Updos with soft volume can really play up your delicate features with a touch of fullness. If your hair lacks length or thickness, extensions are your best friend. This style is perfect for prom or weddings because it’s elegant, timeless, and keeps the focus on your face, making you the star of the show.

@angelsamples

3. Messy Updo with Bangs

This high messy updo is the embodiment of casual chic! It gives off laidback vibes with its loosely pinned strands and ends sticking out. Place the updo high to draw attention upward and create noble proportions. Adding chin-length curtain bangs will soften the look and add extra dimension.

@behsaa_hair

4. Frontal Dutch Braids

Frontal Dutch braids that run from the hairline to the crown open up your features and add a cool texture to your hairstyle. You can also try French braids, knotted braids, or even cornrows for some variety. Each braid type creates a different kind of aesthetic, making it easy to change your style.

@404braids_ny

5. Long Loose Waves

Sometimes women with small faces might steer clear of long hairstyles thinking they’ll get lost in all that hair. But they really shouldn’t! Long hair can frame their face beautifully. Loose waves will add movement and volume, balancing the slim features. Keep the waves soft to harmonize with the overall look.

@diana_yona

6. High Bun with Face-Framing Locks

Do you want to add height and elongate your face in one fell swoop? Bingo! A high bun with volume will make you look taller in general and add height to your hairstyle in particular. Face-framing layers that reach below the jawline will have a slimming effect on a wide or round face, balancing your proportions.

@cassandra.spiteri

7. Texturized Ponytail

A texturized ponytail is awesome for balancing a petite face as it adds volume and interesting texture. Leave out face-framing pieces if you want a more delicate look, and slick all your hair back for a polished style. Backcombing your front sections can add extra oomph, just be gentle to avoid hair damage.

@dafne_evangelista

8. Cornrows and High Ponytail

After you tried the transformative power of frontal braids and high ponytails, now it’s time to merge the two into one stunning ‘do. Note how cornrow placement works both to add length and width to the face – the middle section gradually broadens toward the base of the pony, flanked by semi-circles of side braids.

@suvisland

9. Polished Bridal Updo

For your special day, go for styles that add a bit of volume at the crown without overwhelming your tender features. Soft waves or a few loose tendrils around the face can help create a romantic look. Avoid tight, slicked-back styles – they might make your face look smaller instead of complementing it.

@hairbyavnikaraniya

10. Half Pony Hairstyle

Half ponytails are fantastic if you want to wear your hair loose and keep your hair off your face at the same time. By pulling back just the top section, they keep your features open and add a bit of height and volume at the crown. The cascading waves with silken tendrils add softness around your face.

@sarah_elharar

11. Curly Hair Hairstyle

Curly or coily hair has a great deal of natural volume, which makes it a bit tricky to pick styles that don’t add too much bulk around the sides. Layering is key – it keeps the curls defined and gives a bit of lift at the top for balance. Opt for shapes that add height and avoid anything too round or wide.

@hairmosaghana

12. Beach Waves

Give in to the sweet temptation of vacation vibes and treat yourself to some carefree beachy waves. The loose, wavy look gives a little width to your hairstyle and softens the face’s shape. Plus, beach waves draw the eye around your whole face, making it feel fuller and more proportional.

@thebeautyartiste

13. Boxer Braids

Despite the athletic-inspired name, boxer braids are quite versatile. The extra volume in the braids will give you a stylish edge, making this look great for casual outings, music festivals, or weekend adventures – not just the gym! Plus, they keep hair secure and chic all day.

@404braids_ny

With the right hairstyle, even subtle changes can bring balanced, beautiful results. Try one of these looks to enjoy styles that feel truly tailored to your features.

• Tags:
• Hairstyles