How facial symmetry is measured
- Start with a straight-on photo, with the head level and the face relaxed.
- Draw a vertical midline through the centre of the face.
- Mark paired landmarks: the corners of the eyes, the brows, the sides of the nose, the corners of the mouth and the angles of the jaw.
- Compare how far each left landmark is from the midline with its right-hand match, and whether they sit at the same height.
The smaller the differences, the higher the symmetry score. Hexum does this automatically from your scan as one of its 34 metrics, mapping 247 facial landmarks.
Does symmetry matter?
Research has linked facial symmetry with perceived attractiveness, but the effect is modest, and personal preference, expression, skin and grooming all matter too. Perfectly symmetrical faces can even look unusual. Treat symmetry as one useful metric, not a verdict.
Why your face looks different in photos and in the mirror
- Mirror image. A mirror flips your face, and you are used to that version. Photos show the opposite, so asymmetries feel more noticeable.
- Head tilt and angle. Turning or tilting your head even slightly changes the measured symmetry.
- Expression. Smiling often lifts one side more than the other.
- Lens distortion. A phone held very close exaggerates whatever is nearest the camera.
What causes asymmetry
Most asymmetry is simply how a face grew, and it is shaped by genetics, development, teeth and bite, and past injuries. Habits such as chewing on one side or sleeping on one side are often blamed, but the evidence that they change facial structure is limited. A sudden change in one side of the face, such as drooping or swelling, is a reason to see a doctor.
What you can change
- Grooming. A haircut with the right parting, balanced brows and well-fitted glasses can soften visible differences.
- Photo habits. A level head and a straight-on angle show your real symmetry rather than an angle artefact.
- Skin and leanness. Even skin and a lean face make differences less noticeable.
Structural asymmetry is not something daily habits fix, and procedures are a medical decision to discuss with a qualified professional.
Read how symmetry fits with the other measurements in our guide to facial thirds and canthal tilt.
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