High cheekbones are facial features where the fullest part of your cheeks (the cheekbone) sits closer to your eyes than to your mouth. They are often associated with well-defined, sculpted faces and are admired for their symmetrical, youthful appearance.
But here’s the thing—not everyone knows if they have high, mid, or low cheekbones. So let’s break it down.
How to Tell If You Have High Cheekbones
Step-by-Step Method to Identify Your Cheekbone Position:
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Stand in front of a mirror in good lighting.
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Use your index fingers to locate your cheekbones. Gently press along the sides of your face until you feel the hard bone below your skin.
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Mark two points:
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Where the bone starts near the ear.
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Where it ends near the nose area.
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Now, draw an imaginary line between these two points.
👉 Look closely:
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If the line runs below your eyes, your cheekbones are high.
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If the line runs closer to the bottom of your nose, your cheekbones are low.
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If it’s somewhere in the middle, you have medium cheekbones.
High vs. Low Cheekbones – Visual Differences
| Feature | High Cheekbones | Low Cheekbones |
|---|---|---|
| Position | Closer to the eyes | Closer to the base of the nose |
| Face shape effect | More angular, sculpted appearance | Rounder, softer face shape |
| Shadowing | More natural contour under bone | Less pronounced natural contour |
| Popular examples | Angelina Jolie, Benedict Cumberbatch | Emma Stone, Chris Pratt |
Why Do High Cheekbones Matter?
While cheekbone height doesn’t impact health, it plays a big role in perceived facial symmetry, youthfulness, and attractiveness. In makeup and photography, high cheekbones catch light and create a naturally contoured look without much effort.
However, beauty is subjective—and people with low or high cheekbones can also have striking and beautiful features.
Can You Enhance Cheekbones Naturally?
Yes! Whether you have high cheekbones or not, you can accentuate them through:
💄 Makeup Techniques:
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Use bronzer or contour under the cheekbone and highlight above it.
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Blend well to lift the look of your cheeks.
💆♀️ Facial Exercises:
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Try cheek lifts, smiling resistance, or “fish face” exercises to tone the area.
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Consistency is key—results take time.
🧴 Skincare and Massage:
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Use facial oils or gua sha tools to promote lymphatic drainage and cheekbone definition.
When to Consult a Professional
If you’re considering dermal fillers, buccal fat removal, or other cosmetic procedures to enhance cheekbone definition, speak with a board-certified dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon.
“High cheekbones are often desired, but facial harmony is more important than any single feature. Always discuss your goals with a licensed expert before deciding on treatments.”
— Dr. Anaya Mehta, Cosmetic Dermatologist, MBBS, MD
FAQ: High Cheekbones
Q. Is it rare to have high cheekbones?
Not rare, but less common than medium or low cheekbones. They are often associated with certain ethnic backgrounds and genetic traits.
Q. Are high cheekbones a sign of beauty?
In many cultures and fashion standards, yes—but beauty varies by perspective, culture, and personality.
Q. Can men have high cheekbones?
Yes, high cheekbones are seen as attractive and chiseled in both men and women.
Q. Can cheekbones be changed permanently?
Only through surgery or cosmetic treatments. Makeup and lifestyle can help enhance what you naturally have.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have high, medium, or low cheekbones, your facial structure is part of what makes you uniquely you. While high cheekbones may be trendy, every face shape has its own charm. The goal isn’t to fit into a beauty mold—but to understand your features and enhance them in a way that makes you feel confident.