The influence of brow shape on the perception of facial form and brow aesthetics

Previous studies have described the ideal shape of the aesthetic brow. These studies were based on fashion models, who typically have ideal oval faces. In people with different facial shapes, makeup artists modify brow shape to give the illusion of an oval shape. The purpose of this investigation was to compare the classically described ideal brow to the modified brow for each facial shape.

The faces of five models were morphed into round, square, oval, and long facial shapes. The eyebrows were digitally removed. A makeup artist drew the brows specifically for each facial shape. In a second set of prints, the brow shape was based on the previously published criteria. Seventy-eight people were asked which face they believed was more aesthetic.

There was no significant difference between the classic and the modified eyebrow in the oval or round facial shapes. In the square and long facial shapes, the modified brow was found to be more attractive in 62.7 percent and 58.7 percent of the subjects, which is statistically significant (p < 0.05).

The ideal brow may differ from the classic description when applied to the long or square face. In long faces, a flatter brow may give the illusion of fullness. In the square face, an accentuated lateral curvature may help soften the angles of the face. It may be difficult to achieve these modifications surgically, but it is important to be aware of the effect that brow shape has on facial shape.