You know, I wanna be truthful with you. I’ve been looking at myself in the mirror for far too long, to the point of almost breaking it, trying to comprehend why a haircut that I saw on Pinterest made me look like I’m about to blow up. There is no in-between. Medium-length cuts can either save a rounder face or make it look even fuller. I’ve experienced both so if you’re also experiencing the same problem, remember that you’re not alone.
This isn’t some “how to look slimmer” guide or anything. It’s just me sharing what’s worked (and what hasn’t) when it comes to medium-length haircuts on a chubby face like mine.
Soft layers make a huge difference
Layers = movement. And movement = not drawing attention to the widest part of your face. When I got a blunt cut that ended right near my chin, it basically shouted, “LOOK HOW ROUND MY FACE IS.” The next time, I added some layers that started just below my jaw, and wow. It made a difference I didn’t expect.
A low taper fade works wonders with medium-length styles—giving just enough shape on the sides to slim the face without losing volume on top.
I still love a side part
People love to drag side parts now like they’re outdated or whatever, but for chubby faces, they just… work. They break up the symmetry in a good way. Especially if you’ve got a fuller face and you want to avoid making it look wider. I’m not saying ditch your center part, but don’t write off the side part either.
Curtain bangs? Kinda obsessed.
Okay, not the TikTok kind that are super short and fluffy. I mean longer curtain bangs that blend into your hair. When done right, they soften the face instead of chopping it up. I’ve had stylists butcher these before, but once I found someone who got the length just right, it was game over.
The French crop haircut is a solid go to: cropped fringe, tapered sides, and the kind of structure that flatters rounder features.
Texture saves the day
Flat, straight hair on a round face can feel harsh. Like, it just sits there and does nothing to help you out. When I add some wave or texture (even if it’s just from braiding my hair overnight), it makes the whole style look softer. I don’t always use heat tools—sometimes just letting my hair dry naturally gives it enough bend.
The “mushroom effect” is real and it’s evil
You know when a haircut gets too much volume at the sides and suddenly your head looks way wider than it is? That’s what I call the mushroom effect. Avoid blunt, boxy cuts unless your hair naturally lays really flat. I’ve had to learn this the hard way.
Mid-parts can work—but it’s risky
If you like center parts, go for it. But personally, I think they work better when you’ve got length or layers that give your face some vertical movement. A middle part with a blunt cut that ends at your cheeks? Nope. Tried it. Regretted it.
Just a few things I learned along the way:
- If the cut ends at your chin, your face is gonna look wider. Simple as that.
- Angled cuts that get longer toward the front? Yes please.
- Bangs can be risky—but long ones that feather out can help.
- Don’t be afraid to change your part up every now and then. It really can refresh the whole look.
- Textured ends are your best friend. They break up the heaviness.
I don’t think we need to obsess over “fixing” round faces. They’re not a problem. But I get wanting a haircut that feels like it fits better, frames things right, and makes you feel a little more confident in the mirror. These are just cuts and tweaks that made me go, “Okay, I actually like how I look right now.”
And honestly, hair grows. So if something’s a miss, just tweak it next time. No pressure.
FAQs
- Does cutting my hair shorter make my face look fatter?
Not always. It’s more about where it hits on your face. Chin-length is risky. Shoulder or collarbone is usually safer. - Are curtain bangs worth it for round faces?
If they’re long and blended, yes. If they’re short and puffy? Meh, probably not. - What if I don’t want to use heat tools?
Same. I use sea salt spray and braid it at night. Air-dried texture helps break up the roundness without effort. - Is it better to go with layers or all one length?
Layers. Always. Even just a few in the front make it feel less bulky around the cheeks. - I have a round face and thick hair. What do I do?
Get internal layers (they thin the inside without chopping the outside), and avoid volume at the cheeks.
Kamran Shahzad blends creativity with expertise in hair fashion, offering style guides and haircut inspiration for every vibe. At Dresvia, he helps you transform everyday looks into standout statements.