It’s normal to want to change up your look every now and then. One way to make a big impact is to update your ‘do with some bangs. This on-trend look can work for any face shape or hair length and match whatever style you’re going for, whether it’s cute, chic, or edgy.
Before diving in, make sure you know which bangs style best suits your facial shape and learn how to keep your hair and skin looking good while rocking your new fringe.
The Best Bangs Style for Your Face Shape
The type of bangs you choose can highlight and soften your facial features — or it can accentuate traits you’d rather not focus on. Select a bangs style based on which face shape most closely matches your own:
- Round face shape (you have wide cheekbones and a rounded jaw and hairline) — Trendy curtain bangs that artfully frame your eyes and cheeks can make your face look longer. Alternatively, opt for longer bangs swept to one side to slim down a round face.
- Square face shape (your forehead, cheekbones, and jaw are the same width) — If you want to soften the angular features that often come with a square face, you have a few options. Many people with this shape go for longer, layered, piecey bangs, sometimes called Birkin bangs. You can also go for A-shaped bangs, which are shorter in the middle of your face and longer toward the sides, to make your face appear a little rounder.
- Heart face shape (your forehead is wider than your jawline, and your chin is pointed) — You can really make your eyes pop with some super-short baby bangs. If that’s not quite your style, go for some crescent bangs that are a little longer on the sides to frame your eyes.
- Oval face shape (you have a longer face with a rounded jawline) — If you have this face shape, just know that we’re all jealous. After all, every bang style looks great on you! Go with what you love, or consider trying an edgier style like micro bangs or blunt bangs that wouldn’t work for everyone.
Keeping Your Bangs Looking Sharp
You’ve chosen the perfect bangs style. Now, you need to figure out how to maintain it!
If you have straight hair, one of the best ways to style your bangs is to blow-dry immediately after showering. Use a round brush to gently brush bangs from side to side as you dry them. Stay away from tools like hair straighteners, which can make your bangs look too flat.
For those with a curlier texture, it may be best to keep your bangs on the longer side. Gently blow-dry, and then apply a small amount of light product that enhances the definition of your curls.
Because your bangs come into contact with your forehead, which may get oily or sweaty throughout the day, they can sometimes look greasy by the time you get into the afternoon or evening hours. Apply some dry shampoo to absorb excess oil and keep your fringe looking fresh.
Make sure to also trim your bangs regularly. You may need to get a small chop every two to three weeks to keep them at the right length — ask your stylist if they offer a complimentary trim to get more bang (yes, pun intended!) for your buck.
Skincare While Living With Bangs
When it comes to getting bangs, a change in your hairstyle may also require a change in your skincare habits. Bangs can trap oil and dirt against your forehead, which may clog your pores. In short, bangs may mean breakouts.
To keep your skin clear after getting bangs, you may want to try:
- Washing your hair more often to minimize the amount of oil that comes into contact with your forehead
- Using oil-free hair and skin products
- Wearing a headband or hair clips to keep your bangs off of your face when you’re more likely to sweat, including while at the gym or hanging outside on a hot day
- Avoiding touching your face or messing with your bangs, which will only increase the amount of dirt or oil that ends up on your skin
- Watching out for other potential acne triggers, such as high stress levels, a poor diet, increased humidity levels, new medications, or hormonal changes
If you are dealing with ongoing or worsening acne, talk to your doctor or dermatologist. They can recommend helpful products and medications such as salicylic acid, retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, or antibiotics to help clear your skin.
Making the Leap to Bangs
Getting bangs is a great way to create an updated look or show off a new you. While they may require some extra work, setting aside just a little bit of time for regular maintenance can help keep you looking polished. When in doubt, ask your hairdresser for additional tips on styling and maintaining your new ‘do!
