Assessment of facial harmony among Caucasian Spaniards 18 to 60 years of age and its relationship with the golden ratio

Abstract

Background

Throughout history, the perception and definition of beauty and attractiveness have changed and have been influenced by cultural norms. This article analyzes the concept of "facial normality" (faces that are considered normal by 90% of respondents and, therefore, do not require esthetic surgery) among Spaniards of Caucasian ancestry. We also sought to determine the relationship between faces that are considered "normal" and the golden ratio.

Methods

We surveyed 54 respondents (equal numbers of women and men) between the ages of 18 and 60. The surveys followed the visual analog scale (VAS) protocol, and 13,514 responses were obtained. The respondents were asked to evaluate up to nine photographed faces according to their degree of attractiveness.

Results

According to the data obtained, "facial normality" or facial beauty can be defined by the following characteristics: (a) the sizes of the three facial segments (equal in proportion), (b) the width of the nose (narrow in women and average in men), and (c) the profile (straight or slightly retracted in women and straight or slightly prominent in men). In addition, five specific facial proportions were directly related to the golden ratio. Thus, the concept of "normal" can be applied to 90% of faces whose proportions fall within distinct ranges that encompass the value of the golden ratio.

Conclusions

We conclude that a standard perception of "facial normality" and facial beauty does exist. We also observed a general correlation between specific facial proportions and the golden ratio.

Level of Evidence: Not ratable.