Cheekbones play a significant role in defining the structure of the face. Those with high cheekbones are often considered to have a more refined, attractive appearance, while low cheekbones create a softer, more youthful look. In this article, we’ll explore the science behind cheekbones, how they affect your appearance, and ways to enhance or alter their structure.
What are Cheekbones and Why Do They Matter?
Cheekbones, also known as zygomatic bones, are located on each side of the face, directly beneath the eyes. They provide support to the skin and facial muscles, which can impact the overall shape and appearance of the face. The prominence or lack thereof of the cheekbones can affect the angles of the face and how light falls on it, creating high or low contrast areas which can heavily influence how attractive the face is perceived.
Aside from their aesthetic importance, cheekbones also play a crucial role in facial expressions. They are responsible for the formation of the nasolabial fold, which is the crease that runs from the side of the nose to the corner of the mouth. This fold is essential in conveying emotions such as happiness, sadness, and surprise.
Furthermore, the shape and size of cheekbones can vary greatly among different ethnicities and cultures. In some cultures, high and prominent cheekbones are considered a sign of beauty and youthfulness, while in others, a flatter and wider cheekbone structure is preferred. This highlights the importance of embracing and celebrating diversity in all its forms.
How Do High Cheekbones Affect Your Appearance?
High cheekbones create a sculpted, angular look that is highly sought after in the beauty industry. This feature can provide definition and structure to the face, which can draw attention to the eyes and other attractive facial features. Those with high cheekbones are often viewed as more confident, powerful, and attractive than those without them.
However, high cheekbones can also have a downside. They can make the face appear more angular and harsh, which may not be desirable for some individuals. Additionally, as we age, the loss of fat and collagen in the face can cause the cheekbones to become more prominent, which can lead to a gaunt or tired appearance.
There are various makeup techniques that can enhance or downplay high cheekbones, depending on the desired effect. For example, contouring can be used to create a more chiseled look, while highlighting can bring attention to the cheekbones in a more subtle way. Ultimately, the impact of high cheekbones on one’s appearance is subjective and can vary depending on individual preferences and cultural beauty standards.
How Do Low Cheekbones Affect Your Appearance?
On the other hand, low cheekbones tend to create a softer, rounder appearance. People with this facial feature are often considered to have a more youthful look, which can be desirable for some but not for others. However, without the added definition that high cheekbones provide, the face can appear less sculpted and defined.
Additionally, low cheekbones can also affect the way certain makeup techniques look on the face. For example, contouring may not be as effective on someone with low cheekbones as it is on someone with high cheekbones. Instead, highlighting techniques may be more beneficial in creating a more defined look. It’s important to understand your facial features and how they can impact your overall appearance, so you can make informed decisions about your beauty routine.
The Science Behind Cheekbones: Anatomy and Genetics
While some characteristics of the face can be altered through surgery or makeup, cheekbone structure is largely determined by genetics. The size and placement of the human zygomatic bones are predetermined before birth, and cannot be changed without surgical intervention. The facial structure of both parents also plays a role in determining the shape and prominence of the child’s cheekbones.
Interestingly, the prominence of cheekbones is not just a human trait. Many animals, such as big cats and deer, also have prominent cheekbones. In fact, scientists believe that the purpose of prominent cheekbones in animals is to provide a larger surface area for the attachment of powerful jaw muscles, allowing for stronger bites and better chewing of tough vegetation. While the purpose of prominent cheekbones in humans is not entirely clear, some researchers suggest that they may have played a role in human evolution by indicating health and fertility to potential mates.
Can You Change Your Cheekbone Structure?
While you cannot alter the size or placement of your natural cheekbones, there are several ways to enhance or manipulate their appearance. Some makeup techniques, for example, can help to create the illusion of higher cheekbones by using contouring products to add shadow and definition to this area of the face. In some cases, surgical options such as cheek implants or fillers may be pursued to alter the appearance of the cheekbones in a more permanent way.
It is important to note that while surgical options can provide a more permanent solution, they also come with risks and potential complications. Cheek implants, for example, can shift or become infected, while fillers may need to be redone every few months to maintain their appearance. It is always recommended to consult with a qualified medical professional before pursuing any cosmetic procedures.
The Role of Cheekbones in Different Cultures
Cheekbone structure and prominence can vary significantly among different cultures, reflecting the beauty standards and ideals of each society. For example, high cheekbones are often associated with a Western European look, while softer, less prominent cheekbones are more common in East Asian cultures. Some African and South American cultures prize high cheekbones as a sign of beauty and wisdom.
In some Native American cultures, cheekbones are seen as a symbol of strength and resilience. The higher and more prominent the cheekbones, the more respected and admired the individual is within the community. In contrast, in certain Middle Eastern cultures, a more subtle and understated cheekbone structure is preferred, as it is believed to convey a sense of modesty and humility.
Celebrity Cheekbones: Famous Faces with High vs. Low Cheekbones
Mainstream media has played a big role in establishing beauty standards and ideals, and many celebrities are known for their distinctive cheekbones. High-cheekboned faces like Angelina Jolie, Kate Moss and Amal Clooney often dominate fashion and beauty magazines. In contrast, the soft, rounder cheeks of stars like Taylor Swift and Selena Gomez have become a hallmark of the youthful, girlish look.
However, it’s important to note that beauty standards are constantly evolving and changing. In recent years, there has been a growing appreciation for a wider range of facial features, including those with lower cheekbones. Celebrities like Emma Stone, Jennifer Lawrence, and Lupita Nyong’o have been praised for their unique and striking facial structures, which challenge traditional beauty norms. This shift towards embracing diversity and individuality in beauty is a positive step towards promoting self-acceptance and inclusivity.
Makeup Tips for Enhancing Your Cheekbones
If you don’t have naturally high cheekbones, there are several makeup tricks to enhance them. Apply a bronzer or contour powder along the cheekbones to create shadow and definition where it’s lacking. Highlighters can also be used on the tops of the cheeks to draw attention to this area, giving it a lifted, youthful glow.
In addition to using bronzer and highlighter, you can also try using a blush that complements your skin tone to further enhance your cheekbones. Choose a shade that is slightly darker than your natural skin tone and apply it to the apples of your cheeks, blending it upwards towards your temples. This will add a pop of color and dimension to your cheeks, making your cheekbones appear more prominent.
Surgical Options for Altering Your Cheekbone Structure
If makeup isn’t providing the desired effect, some people choose surgical options to enhance their cheekbones. Cheek implants or filler injections can add volume and definition, creating a permanent change in the face’s appearance. However, these procedures do come with risks and can have long-term effects that need to be considered thoroughly before pursuing.
One surgical option for altering cheekbone structure is a procedure called a mid-face lift. This procedure involves lifting the soft tissues of the cheeks and repositioning them to create a more defined cheekbone structure. This option is often preferred by those who want a more natural-looking result compared to cheek implants or fillers.
It’s important to note that surgical options for altering cheekbone structure can be expensive and may not be covered by insurance. Additionally, recovery time can vary depending on the procedure, with some requiring several weeks of downtime. It’s crucial to consult with a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon to discuss the risks, benefits, and potential outcomes of any surgical procedure before making a decision.
Natural Ways to Define and Sculpt Your Cheekbones
For those who don’t want to go under the knife, there are some natural ways to enhance the appearance of your cheekbones. Exercise, for example, helps to build and tone the muscles in the face, which provides more natural support for the skin and helps to create the appearance of higher cheekbones. A healthy diet can also provide the nutrients needed to maintain good skin health, which can help to highlight the bone structure of the face.
How to Determine if You Have High or Low Cheekbones
Determining whether you have high or low cheekbones is fairly straightforward. Place your fingers on the sides of your face, just below your eyes. If you can feel a prominent bone that extends from the temples to the center of the cheeks, you likely have high cheekbones. If the area is softer and less defined, you may have low cheekbones.
Health Implications of High vs. Low Cheekbones
There are no major health concerns related to cheekbone structure, and both high and low cheekbones are perfectly normal and functional. However, in some cases, low cheekbones may be a symptom of a genetic condition such as Down Syndrome, and should be monitored by a healthcare professional.
The Psychology Behind Perceived Attractiveness of High vs. Low Cheekbones
It’s no secret that high cheekbones are prized for their beauty and attractiveness, but why? One theory is that the prominent bone structure created by high cheekbones is a sign of good health and fertility. It is believed that people with high cheekbones have a stronger immune system and are therefore more desirable as mates. Additionally, high cheekbones create an angular look that is widely accepted as a symbol of power, dominance, and confidence.
Choosing the Right Hairstyle Based on Your Cheekbone Structure
Your cheekbone structure can have a big impact on which hairstyles suit you best. If you have high cheekbones, for example, you may want to show them off with a sleek, pulled-back hairstyle that highlights this feature. If your cheekbones are less defined, on the other hand, adding layers and volume to the hair can create the illusion of higher cheekbones.
In conclusion, cheekbones are a significant feature of the face, influencing how we are perceived by others and how we feel about ourselves. Whether we have high or low cheekbones, there are several ways to enhance or manipulate their appearance, from makeup and hairstyles to surgical options and natural remedies. Understanding the role that cheekbones play in defining our facial structure can help us to make the best choices when it comes to enhancing our appearance and feeling confident in our own skin.
