A theory that goes back to the time of the Ancient Greeks is the idea that an attractive face has a particular set of measurements and placement. This is known as the Golden Ratio with a numerical value of 1.68... The Greeks called this value "Phi" (after the Greek sculptor Phidias). The Golden Ratio is used for more than just the human face, but when it does come to the human face, there is a specific chart people use. When a person closely matches or exactly matches up to the chart, they're supposedly more appealing to the human eye. Below are some pictures of iconic woman with the Golden Ratio Face Chart over their faces.
The celebrities above include (left to right) Megan Fox, Angelina Jolie, Marilyn Monroe, Grace Kelly and Audrey Hepburn. Megan Fox matches very closely to the chart, as do Kelly and Hepburn. Other celebs that match up include Jessica Alba and Shania Twain. What's very interesting about the charts and other ratios I learned of, is that many plastic surgeons go by these charts and theories. This is why celebrities, like Fox, who have gone under the knife, fit more closely to the ratio (especially compared to their natural face).
Does not meeting the Golden Ratio mean you're not attractive? Of course not, especially considering Angelina and Marilyn don't match up. There's many other factors that make a beautiful face- from particular features to uniqueness. According to numerous studies, common characteristics that appeal to the eye (especially sexually) include large eyes, big lips, a nice smile, and high cheek bones. Jolie and Monroe have a majority of those features. As for individuality, certain models are known for something unique- not necessarily just for good looks. For example, Tyra Banks is well known for her large forehead and big eyes. Another example is ANTM's Chantelle Brown-Young who has Vitiligo (and yes, that's the same skin disorder MJ had). So what's the secret behind these ladies being disproportionate and unique yet still just as beautiful? Confidence. Most models have a signature, and when they carry it confidently it becomes a valuable asset. See both of these ladies pictured below.
Another less complicated and more commonly used way to measure a "beautiful face" is by specific ratios. There have been studies that show that men/women that match these ratios appeal more to the eye. Supposedly, if you measure the distance between three certain points, and all three points are equal then you're considered more attractive than a person who doesn't match up. The three points are:
1. Your hairline to the center of your eyes
2. The center of your eyes to the tip of your nose
3. The tip of your nose to your chin
A celebrity that doesn't match up to the Golden Ratio, but matches up to this theory is Angelina Jolie (see below) because all 3 distances match equally. Beyonce also fits this theory.
The last theory I learned while researching is:
1. When the distance between your pupil and the tip of your nose
are just over 1/3 (36%) the length of your face from your
hairline to your chin
AND...
2. The width between your pupils is just under 1/2 (46%) the
width of your face from ear to ear
THEN...
The brain registers the face as "normal" or "average" and we in turn call that feeling "pleasing to the eye", beautiful, attractive, stunning, etc...(See an example of this theory on Mona Lisa Below) Lastly, one final fun fact- most plastic surgeons base the length of a client's nose off the length of their ear.
Overall, I'd say my personal opinion about beauty is that anyone can be stunning if they have a positive self esteem, confidence and are happy. I just figured I'd share information about the math and science side of beauty since most people don't realize it's not just about Cosmetology and Art.
Thank you so much for reading this post. If you have any requests for future posts, please feel free to comment below or email me at Makeup@ReginaDionne.com
XOXO -Reg
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