Your hairline is as unique as you are, varying in shape and height, and influenced by a number of factors such as genetics, hormones, lifestyle, and age. Hairlines help shape the face while bringing attention to or minimizing certain features. Yet as varied as they are, all hairlines fall within a certain category.

And believe it or not, if you’re not a fan of your hairline, there are both temporary and permanent ways you can alter its appearance. Read on as we go over the most common types of hairlines for women and discuss options for changing them.

Types of Hairlines for Women

• Low Hairline – A hairline that sits relatively close to the eyebrows, a low hairline gives the appearance of having a short forehead. For those who are predisposed to developing a receding hairline with age, a low hairline may be an advantage.
• High Hairline – A hairline that begins high up on the crown of the head is considered high. It can be caused by genetics as well as hair loss.
• Middle Hairline – As the name implies, this type of hairline sits in the middle of the forehead and is referred to as an “average” hairline.
• Widow’s Peak – This V-shaped hairline may be inherited but also can be the result of a rare genetic disorder such as frontonasal dysplasia, characterized by abnormal development of the head and face before birth. A widow’s peak may become more or less prominent with age.
• Triangular Hairline – Opposite of a widow’s peak, a triangular hairline takes on the appearance of a slightly off-center triangle. In some cases, it may be caused by congenital triangular alopecia, a pattern of hair loss.
• Uneven Hairline – A hairline where one side is slightly higher than the other, or one that zig-zags is considered uneven. These can be caused by genetics, damaging hair styling practices, or hair that starts to recede.
• Bell-Shaped – Typically symmetrical, bell-shaped, rounded, or oval hairlines tend to make the forehead look long in shape.
• Straight-Lined – Often referred to as a juvenile hairline, this type of hairline is straight across the forehead giving a rectangular appearance.
• M-Shaped – More common in men than women, M-shaped or receding hairlines either recede straight back horizontally or stop growing at one or both temples producing an “M” shape.

Changing Your Hairline

If you’re unhappy with your hairline or the direction it’s headed as you age, there are a few ways to alter it. One of the easiest is through strategic styling. Consult your stylist for haircut and styling tips that can disguise your hairline. Hair removal can adjust a too-low hairline while laser therapy may stimulate hair growth along the hairline. Shaving and tweezing can also remove unwanted hair, though not recommended for dark hair as these methods can leave a shadow as hair starts growing back in. Microblading, a tattooing technique that mimics the look of individual hair, can be used to temporarily fill in areas of concern, while certain medications can stop or slow down balding or a receding hairline. Consult your doctor before starting any medications or supplements.

Whether you are less-than-pleased with your hairline, or are noticing thinning or bald spots, we encourage you to contact the experienced medical team at DiStefano Hair Restoration Center. We’re here to help you look your best and feel even better. Contact us today for a free consultation.