Across cultures and throughout history, facial symmetry has been considered a hallmark of beauty. But modern science has revealed something even more striking: symmetric faces don't just look better — they're associated with measurable advantages in life outcomes.
Why Does Facial Symmetry Matter?
Evolutionary biologists propose that facial symmetry signals developmental stability — the ability of an organism to develop normally despite environmental and genetic stresses. Research by Thornhill and Gangestad (1994) in Animal Behaviour demonstrated that symmetry is a reliable indicator of genetic fitness across many species, including humans.
When we find symmetric faces attractive, we're responding to an ancient biological signal of health and genetic quality. This isn't a cultural artifact — it's been documented across every culture studied, from isolated tribal communities to modern urban populations.
Symmetry and Career Success
A landmark study by Rule and Ambady (2008) published in Psychological Science found that naive observers could predict the financial success of Fortune 500 CEOs based solely on their facial photographs. Facial structure — including symmetry — was a significant predictor of company profits.
Further research by Berggren, Jordahl, and Poutvaara (2010) in the Journal of Public Economics showed that political candidates with more attractive (and symmetric) faces received significantly more votes, controlling for party affiliation, experience, and policy positions.
The Symmetry-Competence Connection
Why would facial symmetry predict professional outcomes? Research points to several mechanisms:
- Perceived competence: People with symmetric faces are rated as more competent, intelligent, and trustworthy (Todorov et al., 2005)
- Social advantages: Symmetric individuals receive more positive social interactions from childhood onward (Langlois et al., 2000)
- Self-confidence: The accumulated social advantages build greater self-assurance, creating a positive feedback loop
- Health correlations: Symmetry genuinely correlates with physical and mental health, potentially supporting better performance
How Symmetric Is the Average Face?
Perfect bilateral symmetry is extremely rare. Research by Little et al. (2011) in Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B found that most faces show subtle asymmetries. However, the degree of symmetry matters enormously:
- Highly symmetric faces are rated significantly more attractive than less symmetric ones
- Even small improvements in symmetry produce noticeable gains in attractiveness ratings
- Computer-averaged faces (which are artificially symmetric) are consistently rated as highly attractive
Can You Improve Your Facial Symmetry?
While bone structure is largely fixed, several factors can enhance the appearance of symmetry:
- Skincare: Even skin tone reduces the visual impact of asymmetries
- Grooming: Balanced eyebrow shaping and hairstyling can create visual harmony
- Photography angles: Understanding your "better side" for photos and professional headshots
- Facial exercises: Some evidence suggests targeted exercises may improve muscle balance
- AI analysis: Modern face analysis apps can identify specific asymmetries and suggest targeted improvements — a practical option for anyone curious about their symmetry profile
Measuring Your Facial Symmetry
Understanding where your face falls on the symmetry spectrum is the first step toward optimization. Modern AI face analysis technology can now measure symmetry with remarkable precision, comparing dozens of facial landmarks to establish a detailed symmetry profile. Apps like RatingFace use this approach to give users a clear picture of their facial balance.
Key Research References
- Thornhill, R. & Gangestad, S.W. (1994). "Human fluctuating asymmetry and sexual behavior." Psychological Science, 5(5), 297–302.
- Rule, N.O. & Ambady, N. (2008). "The Face of Success." Psychological Science, 19(2), 109–111.
- Berggren, N., Jordahl, H., & Poutvaara, P. (2010). "The Looks of a Winner." Journal of Public Economics, 94(1–2), 8–15.
- Little, A.C., Jones, B.C., & DeBruine, L.M. (2011). "Facial attractiveness: evolutionary based research." Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B, 366, 1638–1659.
- Todorov, A. et al. (2005). "Inferences of Competence from Faces Predict Election Outcomes." Science, 308(5728), 1623–1626.