What is a High Forehead?
A high forehead is characterized by a vertical distance of more than 2.75 inches (7 cm) between the eyebrows and the hairline. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, approximately 10% of the population has a high forehead.
Challenges of Styling Hair with a High Forehead
Styling hair with a high forehead can be challenging due to the following reasons:
- Exaggerated forehead height
- Thinning hair at the hairline
- Difficulty creating volume and fullness
Effective Hairstyle Strategies for High Foreheads
To minimize the appearance of a high forehead, consider the following strategies:
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Create Volume at the Crown: Backcomb the hair at the crown or use a volumizing mousse to lift the roots and create the illusion of a taller forehead.
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Enhance Hairline Density: Use volumizing shampoos and conditioners to thicken hair at the hairline. Consider hair extensions or a hairpiece to fill in sparse areas.
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Add Bangs: Bangs of any style (blunt, side-swept, or feathered) can instantly conceal a high forehead. Avoid heavy bangs that weigh down the hair.
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Layer the Hair: Layers add texture and movement to the hair, breaking up the monotony of a high forehead. Long, loose layers or choppy, graduated layers can create fullness and soften the forehead’s appearance.
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Sweep Hair Sideways: Side-swept hairstyles can elongate the face and minimize the height of the forehead. Use volumizing products to create body and lift at the roots.
Specific Hairstyles for High Foreheads
1. Fringe Bangs: A thick, blunt fringe that covers the entire forehead can instantly conceal the extra vertical space.
2. Side-Swept Bangs with Layers: Combine side-swept bangs with graduated layers to create a flattering frame for the face. The layers add volume and balance to the forehead.
3. Long, Loose Layers: Layers of varying lengths create a cascade of movement and texture that distracts from the high forehead. Style the hair with voluminous curls or waves to enhance the illusion of fullness.
4. Undercut Pixie with Bangs: A short, choppy pixie cut with bangs can balance the forehead’s height while adding a touch of edginess.
5. Asymmetry with Curtain Bangs: Asymmetry in the hair breaks up the vertical line of the forehead. Combine this with curtain bangs that frame the face, creating a flattering and modern look.
6. Bob with Side Part and Bangs: A side-parted bob with shoulder-length hair adds fullness to the sides of the face, de-emphasizing the forehead.
7. Middle-Parted Waves with Curtain Bangs: A sleek middle-parted haircut with soft waves and curtain bangs creates a balanced and polished look that minimizes forehead height.
8. Long Pigtails with Volume: Pull the hair into two high pigtails and strategically tease the roots to create volume at the crown. This style elongates the face and draws attention away from the forehead.
9. Messy Bun with Bangs: A messy bun can soften the appearance of a high forehead, especially when paired with bangs. Leave some loose tendrils to frame the face.
10. Half-Up, Half-Down with Volume: Create a half-up, half-down hairstyle with the top section teased for volume. This style adds height to the crown and creates a more proportional forehead-to-face ratio.
Other Considerations for High Foreheads
1. Hair Color: Opt for darker hair colors, such as brown or black, as they create the illusion of fullness.
2. Hair Length: Longer hair can weigh down the head and accentuate forehead height. Short to medium-length hair is more flattering for this facial feature.
3. Accessories: Headbands, scarves, and hats can conceal the forehead and add a touch of flair.
Conclusion
Understanding the challenges and effective strategies for styling hair with a high forehead empowers you to create flattering, confidence-boosting hairstyles. Experiment with different haircuts, bangs, and styling techniques to find the perfect look that complements your facial features and personal style. Remember, embracing your unique forehead shape can lead to a beautiful and stylish appearance.
Citations
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American Academy of Dermatology. (2021). High Forehead. Retrieved from https://www.aad.org/conditions/high-forehead
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National Institutes of Health. (2020). Hair Loss and Alopecia. Retrieved from https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/hairloss/conditioninfo/Pages/default.aspx
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American Society for Dermatologic Surgery. (2019). Hairline Lowering Surgery. Retrieved from https://www.asds.net/skin-experts/procedures/hairline-lowering-surgery