Ever stood in front of a mirror, holding a picture of a haircut you love and wondering, “Will that really suit my long face?” If your jawline and forehead make your face look elongated, you’re not alone—many men struggle to find haircuts that add balance and masculinity without sacrificing style. In this guide you’ll find practical, trend-aware mens hairstyles for long faces, plus styling tips, product suggestions, and outfit pairings so you leave the barber confident and ready to own your look.
Why face shape matters (and how to tell if you have a long face)
Before we get into cuts, briefly: a long (or oblong/elongated) face is longer than it is wide, with a high forehead and a longer chin. You can check this by measuring: if your face length is significantly greater than the width across your cheekbones, you likely have a long face. The goal with styling is to add width and reduce perceived length—through hair volume at the sides, strategic fringe, beard shapes, and outfit choices.
Top mens hairstyles for long faces
These haircuts are proven to flatter elongated face shapes. Pick one based on hair texture, thickness, and lifestyle.
Textured crop with fringe
A short textured crop with a soft fringe creates horizontal emphasis and visually shortens the face. Ask your barber for layers and choppy texture—keep the sides tapered but not too tight. Use a matte paste or clay to create separation and avoid high shine which elongates features.
Side-parted medium length
A classic side part with medium length on top and fuller sides adds width. This look is versatile—dress it up with a tailored blazer or keep it casual with a tee and denim jacket. Use a low-hold pomade for a natural, structured finish.
Textured quiff (low height)
A quiff with volume focused slightly back (not sky-high) works well when the sides maintain some thickness. The trick: moderate height and more side fullness to balance. This is great for thicker hair and plays nicely with weekend and office outfits alike.
Messy medium-length waves
If you have natural waves, let them grow to jaw length and add layers to create sideways volume. Sea salt spray and light cream help define waves without weighing them down. This relaxed look pairs well with sweaters and layered jackets.
Short pompadour with fuller sides
Keep the pompadour moderate in height and avoid extreme undercuts. Fuller sides and a bit of fringe help reduce perceived length while keeping a modern silhouette.
Long hair with layers (for a more rugged vibe)
Long hair can work for long faces if it has face-framing layers and width at the jaw. Pulling everything back into a loose man bun with pieces left out around the face softens an elongated look.
Beard and facial hair tips to balance an elongated face
Facial hair is one of the most effective tools to shorten a long face.
- Go for a short boxed beard or full stubble to add weight to the lower face—this reduces the visual length.
- A chin strap with some volume on the sides can help widen the jawline.
- A clean, tapered neckline keeps things tidy without making the face appear longer.
Styling products and maintenance
Choose products based on your chosen cut:
- Matte clay or paste for texture and a natural finish—great for crops and messy styles.
- Light hold pomade or cream for side parts and medium-length styles that need a soft shine.
- Sea salt spray for waves and beachy texture; avoid heavy oils that flatten your sides.
- Texturizing powder to add lift at the sides when you need more horizontal volume.
Maintenance: visit your barber every 4–6 weeks for crops and every 6–10 weeks for longer styles. Bring a photo to ensure consistency.
Outfit combinations that flatter a long face
Your hairstyle works best when your wardrobe supports it. Here are outfit ideas that complement the cuts above:
- Textured crop + crewneck sweater + bomber jacket: the round neckline and structured jacket add upper-body width.
- Side part + oxford shirt + blazer: a neat, horizontal line at the shoulders balances a long face—ideal for the office or dates.
- Messy medium waves + denim jacket + henley shirt: layers create depth and breadth, matching the relaxed hairstyle.
- Short pompadour + turtleneck or wide-collar coat: turtlenecks visually shorten the neck, harmonizing with a slightly elevated top.
Practical barber instructions
When you sit down in the chair, say something like: “I have an elongated/oblong face. I want to add width at the sides and keep some fringe—avoid too much top height.” Show a picture and ask for recommendations based on your hair density and parting. If you have receding hairlines, focus on side volume and textured crops rather than long top-heavy styles.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the best haircut for a long face shape?
The best haircut depends on hair texture, but generally a textured crop with a fringe or a side-parted medium length that adds side volume will work well. These styles create horizontal lines that reduce perceived length.
2. Can long hair work for men with long faces?
Yes—if you use layers and keep width at the jawline. Avoid straight, slicked-back long hair that exposes the whole face. Face-framing layers or a loose man bun with pieces left out will be more flattering.
3. Should I grow a beard to fix my face shape?
Facial hair can be very effective. Short boxed beards, stubble, or styles that add horizontal fullness at the jaw will help shorten your face. Avoid very long pointy beards that extend the face length.
Final styling checklist
- Add side volume and consider a soft fringe.
- Keep top height moderate—avoid extreme pomps unless sides are fuller.
- Use matte textures and bring style photos to your barber.
- Pair your haircut with clothes that add shoulder/upper body width like structured jackets and crewneck/turtleneck tops.
Conclusion
Finding the right mens hairstyles for long faces is about adding horizontal balance—through fringe, side volume, and the right beard. Whether you choose a textured crop, a side part, or medium-length waves, small changes in cut and styling products make a huge difference. Try one of the looks above, bring a reference photo to your barber, and experiment with product textures until you find the finish that feels like you. Want more tailored advice? Check out our guides on beard styles for men and essential men’s hair products to complete your transformation. Ready to change your look? Book your barber appointment this week and tag us to share your before-and-after.
