The Top 10 Facial Features for an Attractive Face: What Science Says About Beauty

Beauty may be subjective, but science shows us that certain facial features consistently influence how attractive we’re perceived to be. While personal preferences vary across cultures, genders, and ethnicities, research in evolutionary psychology and aesthetic medicine highlights that some traits universally signal health, youthfulness, and genetic fitness—all factors closely tied to attractiveness.

In this guide, we’ll explore the top 10 facial features that make a face attractive, supported by scientific studies and expert insights. You’ll also learn why these features matter, how they impact perception, and how subtle enhancements can make a big difference.

Top 10 Facial Features for an Attractive Face

10. Lips – Subtle Yet Significant

Lips may not make or break your overall attractiveness, but they add balance and harmony to your facial aesthetics. Research in Perception (2017) shows that symmetrical, proportionate lips are generally considered more appealing (1).

• Key Factors: Lip volume, proportionality, shape, and the Cupid’s bow
• Expert Insight: Overly thin or overly plump lips can disrupt facial harmony, but naturally balanced lips enhance youthfulness and sensuality.
• Pro Tip: Overdoing lip fillers can sometimes have the opposite effect and reduce attractiveness.

9. Teeth and Smile – A Window to Health

Your smile is one of the most expressive features of your face. Healthy, well-maintained teeth create positive associations of hygiene, vitality, and confidence. According to a study published in the Journal of Evolutionary Biology (2013), whiter, evenly spaced teeth strongly influence attractiveness ratings (2).

• Key Factors: Tooth color, symmetry, and alignment
• Expert Insight: Yellowing or chipped teeth can subtly detract from facial appeal, but perfect symmetry isn’t necessary—natural, healthy teeth win every time.

8. Skin Health and Complexion – The Glow Factor

Smooth, clear, and even-toned skin is widely associated with youth, health, and fertility. A study in Evolution and Human Behavior (2016) highlights that skin homogeneity—having an even texture and tone—boosts facial attractiveness significantly (3).

• Key Factors: Texture, hydration, blemish control, and pigmentation
• Expert Insight: While occasional pimples or minor imperfections don’t drastically impact attractiveness, chronic acne or extreme sun damage can overshadow other facial features.

7. Hair – The Frame of the Face

Hair often gets overlooked when discussing facial attractiveness, but it acts as the frame for your features. Research by Mesko & Bereczkei (2004) found that hair length, volume, and style significantly affect attractiveness ratings, especially in women (4).

• Key Factors: Length, texture, density, and overall grooming
• Expert Insight: A flattering hairstyle can balance facial proportions, highlight strong features, and even make the face appear more symmetrical.
• For Men: Facial hair also plays a role. Studies in Evolutionary Biology suggest that moderate stubble is considered most attractive by many women.

6. Cheekbones – The Model Aesthetic

High, well-defined cheekbones are often associated with youth, health, and symmetry. They add dimension and structure to the face, creating a striking yet balanced appearance.

• Key Factors: Cheekbone height, projection, and harmony with facial proportions
• Scientific Insight: According to Archives of Facial Plastic Surgery (2015), midface structure, including prominent cheekbones, plays a pivotal role in perceived attractiveness (5).
• Pro Tip: Even if you don’t have naturally sharp cheekbones, good contouring or hairstyle adjustments can help enhance definition.

5. Nose – Central to Facial Harmony

The nose is literally at the center of your face, so its shape and size significantly influence overall symmetry. Interestingly, studies show that there isn’t a single “perfect nose”—proportion to other features matters far more than absolute size.

• Key Factors: Nasal tip shape, bridge symmetry, projection, and alignment
• Scientific Insight: A 2018 study in JAMA Facial Plastic Surgery found that balanced nasal proportions are highly correlated with perceived attractiveness, regardless of ethnic background (6).

4. Face Shape – The Foundation of Beauty

Your face shape forms the canvas upon which all other features rest. While oval shapes are often considered ideal, research shows that proportionality—rather than a specific shape—is what truly matters.

• Key Factors: Facial index (length-to-width ratio) and balance across upper, middle, and lower thirds
• Scientific Insight: According to Reneke & Farkas (2006), the most attractive facial ratios are roughly 1.35:1 in men and 1.3:1 in women, meaning the face is about 1.3 times longer than it is wide (7).
• Pro Tip: The right hairstyle and contouring can subtly modify the appearance of facial proportions without invasive changes.

3. Eyebrows, Eyelashes, and Brow Ridge – The Power of Expression

Your eyebrows and lashes frame your eyes and play a major role in nonverbal communication. Full, well-shaped brows and defined lashes can dramatically enhance facial symmetry and perceived youthfulness.

• Key Factors: Eyebrow thickness, arch, density, and eyelash definition
• Scientific Insight: In a study by Mogilski & Welling (2018), eyebrow thickness was nearly as important as face shape in attractiveness ratings, outperforming cheekbones (8).
• For Women: Mascara and brow grooming can instantly elevate appearance.
• For Men: Naturally thick brows often convey strength and masculinity.

2. Eyes – The Windows to Your Soul

Eyes consistently rank among the most captivating features in attractiveness studies. Whether it’s eye color, shape, or expression, they naturally draw attention and communicate emotions.

• Key Factors: Spacing, symmetry, sclera (whites of eyes), eyelid exposure, and tilt
• Scientific Insight: Research in Frontiers in Psychology (2020) shows that bright, healthy-looking eyes signal vitality and are universally appealing (9).
• Pro Tip: Proper sleep, hydration, and skincare for the under-eye area can significantly improve perceived attractiveness.

1. Jawline – The Ultimate Marker of Attractiveness

Across studies, the jawline consistently emerges as the single most important feature for facial attractiveness. A well-defined jawline signals health, youth, and strength.

• Key Factors: Jaw angle, chin shape, symmetry, and proportionality
• Scientific Insight: According to the American Journal of Human Biology (2017), jaw prominence is a reliable marker of both genetic quality and lower body fat percentage (10).
• For Men, A sharp jawline is strongly associated with masculinity and dominance.
• For Women: A softly contoured jawline often signals youthfulness and femininity.

Scientific Insights: Why These Features Matter

Evolutionary psychology suggests that facial attractiveness evolved as a visual marker of health and reproductive fitness. For example:

• Clear skin → Signals good health and youth
• Symmetry → Suggests strong genetics
• Defined bone structure → Indicates proper hormonal balance and development
• Bright eyes and full brows → Communicate vitality

Cultural ideals and beauty trends may shift, but the biological signals behind attractiveness remain consistent.

Facial attractiveness isn’t about chasing perfection—it’s about harmony, health, and expression. While genetics play a big role, small lifestyle changes like skincare, grooming, and dental health can significantly boost how attractive you look.
Remember, your face tells your story. Celebrate your unique features while working on what makes you feel confident and radiant.