What makes a face unattractive? Is it purely genetic, or does society shape these perceptions? While beauty is subjective and cultural standards vary, research and common opinions show that certain facial features are often seen as less appealing. Below, we’ll explore some of the most commonly perceived unattractive facial features and why people view them this way.
Face Tattoos
Studies, such as those in the journal Body Image, show that face tattoos are often linked with negative perceptions. People with face tattoos are frequently judged as less trustworthy, approachable, or professional. Placement and design matter too, heavy or poorly thought-out tattoos tend to make the effect stronger.
Dry Skin
Dry, flaky skin can make the face appear tired, unhealthy, or dull. Fortunately, it’s one of the easiest issues to fix with proper skincare, hydration, and moisturizers. Healthy, glowing skin almost always boosts attractiveness.
Sparse Eyebrows
Thin or uneven eyebrows make the face look less balanced. Full, well-shaped brows frame the eyes, making them stand out and adding a youthful look.
Negative Eyebrow Tilt
Eyebrow position can drastically change facial expression. A negative tilt (where the outer corners point downward) often creates a harsh or tired appearance, while a neutral or positive tilt gives the face a more balanced, energetic, and youthful vibe.
Thin Neck
A very thin neck can throw off proportions, making the face look larger or the jawline weaker. A fuller, balanced neck complements facial structure more harmoniously.
Thin Lips
Extremely thin lips are often linked to an older or less expressive look, while fuller lips are associated with youth, vitality, and attractiveness.
Large Forehead
A forehead that is disproportionately large compared to the rest of the face can make features look unbalanced. Hairstyles, such as bangs, often help create better harmony.
Dark Under-Eye Bags
Puffiness or dark circles signal tiredness and age, drawing attention away from the eyes. Lifestyle changes, hydration, and skincare can improve this.
Facial Folds
As skin loses elasticity with age, folds and sagging appear around the mouth, eyes, and chin. While natural, they can add to a tired or aged appearance.
Excess Upper Eyelid Exposure
Too much visible eyelid can make eyes look tired or sad, especially in men. Balanced eyelid proportions are generally considered more attractive.
Convex Profile
A profile where the forehead, nose, and chin curve outward is often seen as less symmetrical and less balanced compared to straight or concave profiles.
Long Face Shape
When the face is significantly longer than it is wide, proportions can appear stretched, giving an elongated appearance that many find less balanced.
Large Nose
An oversized or disproportionate nose, whether wide, bulbous, or with a bump, can dominate the face and reduce harmony.
Low Cheekbones
High cheekbones are linked with beauty and elegance. In contrast, low cheekbones make the face appear flatter and less defined.
Short Ramus
The ramus (vertical part of the jaw) influences jawline strength. A short ramus makes the lower face appear weaker and less angular.
Low Facial Width-to-Height Ratio (FWHR)
A narrow, tall face is often seen as less attractive compared to wider faces, which are associated with symmetry and stronger bone structure.
Unbalanced Facial Thirds
When the forehead, midface, and jawline are unevenly proportioned, the face looks less harmonious. Balance is key.
Recessed Jaw
A jaw that sits back too far creates a weak chin and less defined profile, reducing facial symmetry and strength.
Crooked or Yellow Teeth
Dental health is crucial. Crooked or discolored teeth negatively affect smiles, while straight, white teeth symbolize health and attractiveness.
Double Chin
A double chin softens the jawline and profile, making the face appear less sculpted. It’s often linked with weight, genetics, or aging.
Acne
Acne causes uneven skin texture and discoloration, which many find unattractive. While normal and common, clear skin is typically preferred.
Narrow Jaw
A small, narrow jaw lacks definition, especially in men. Wider jaws are often seen as more masculine and attractive.
Flared or Large Ears
Ears that stick out or appear oversized can disrupt balance, drawing attention away from central features.
Eye Spacing Issues
Eyes too far apart or too close together can make a face look unbalanced. The ideal is about one eye’s width of space between them.
Negative Canthal Tilt
When the outer corners of the eyes slope downward, it creates a sad or tired look. Neutral or positive tilts look more youthful and lively.
Baldness
While some men can pull it off, balding or early baldness is often associated with aging and loss of attractiveness for most people.
Unibrow
Brows that meet in the middle are usually seen as unbalanced and harsh. Grooming or shaping can soften the look.
Obesity
Excess weight affects the whole face, often making it rounder with less definition. Leaner faces highlight cheekbones, eyes, and jawlines.
Attractiveness is influenced by balance, symmetry, and proportions. While many of these features are shaped by genetics, others, like skincare, grooming, or weight management, are within personal control. Remember, beauty is highly subjective, and what one culture finds unattractive, another may celebrate.