5 Haircut Tips Every Round-Faced Beauty Should Know

I can’t even count how many times someone’s sat in my chair and said, “Barb, what haircut makes my face look slimmer?” It’s one of the most common questions I get here at Hyde - Chapin. And honestly, it’s a great one, because the right haircut can completely change how you feel when you walk out the door.

Hey there, I’m Barb Presson. I’ve been cutting and coloring hair here in Chapin, South Carolina for years. You’ll find us right near Bakon Southern Eatery and Chapin Commons, a spot where good hair days and good coffee both happen often. Around here, I help women figure out what makes their hair feel like “them.” And if you’ve got a round face, these are the haircut tips I always share first.

1. Choose Soft Layers Instead of Blunt Lines

If your face is round, you want your haircut to move with you. Blunt ends tend to make cheeks look fuller, while soft, face-framing layers bring out your best angles. I usually start layers around the collarbone and angle them slightly forward. It draws the eyes down instead of out, which gives a more balanced shape.

For clients with thick hair, I’ll sometimes add a little layering underneath to help it fall more naturally. It’s a small detail, but it keeps your style light and easy to manage. That’s what I love about layering, it works quietly in your favor without anyone noticing exactly why it looks so good.

If you’re ready to see what works best for your face shape, take a peek at our Haircut for Round Face option. We’ll customize it just for you.

2. Try a Side Part for a Softer Look

Middle parts have their moment, but if your face is round, a side part is your secret weapon. It adds just the right amount of asymmetry and creates a little lift that instantly changes your look. Whether your hair is straight or wavy, it helps your features stand out and gives your face more dimension.

One of my regulars, Rachel, struggled with finding a cut that didn’t make her cheeks the focus. We switched her to a deep side part with some chin-length layers, and she couldn’t believe how different she looked. Sometimes, one simple change is all it takes to make everything fall into place.

3. Add Volume at the Top, Not the Sides

Here’s a quick stylist secret: volume placement matters. If you want your face to look longer and slimmer, keep the lift at your crown instead of the sides. I like using a round brush and a bit of volumizing mousse right at the roots. It gives just enough height to make your silhouette look more vertical without adding puffiness.

• Use a lightweight mousse or root lifter before blow-drying.
• Focus your brush at the crown for a few seconds while drying.
• Flip your head upside down for a natural, bouncy finish.

And because this is South Carolina, where humidity has a mind of its own, make sure your styling products are humidity-resistant. Nothing worse than your perfect blowout falling flat before you even make it to Chapin Commons.

4. Use Highlights to Shape and Brighten Your Face

Color placement can do wonders for face shape. Adding soft highlights around the face draws light toward your features and creates the illusion of structure. I love painting lighter pieces around the front and through the ends. It adds brightness and makes your cheekbones look more defined without changing your natural tone too much.

If you’re planning a haircut soon, it’s the perfect time to freshen up your color too. Our Color Services menu has everything from subtle dimension to bold transformations. You don’t always need a full balayage, sometimes just a few hand-painted highlights make all the difference.

5. Finish with Soft Texture and Shine

The best haircut still needs a good finish. For round faces, aim for movement and touchable texture. Avoid stiff sprays or heavy products that freeze your shape. I usually reach for a flexible-hold hairspray and a light shine serum for the ends. It keeps the style soft and natural without weighing it down.

If you’re styling at home, remember that a little product goes a long way. Too much can flatten your volume or make your hair look oily by lunchtime. Especially here in the South, where we’re all fighting the same humidity battle.

Final Thoughts from Barb

Your haircut should highlight your features, not hide them. The best cuts are the ones that fit both your face shape and your lifestyle. Whether you’re chasing your kids, heading to work, or just running errands around town, your hair should move with you and make you feel confident doing it.

If you’re ready to find a look that fits you perfectly, come visit us at Hyde - Chapin, located at 301 Columbia Ave., Suite 201, Chapin, SC 29036. You can call us at 803.723.2410 or book online here. Let’s find the haircut that feels like home.