hairline · haircuts
Best Hairstyles for aWidow's Peak
The best hairstyles for a widow's peak, for men and women, with whether to hide or show it, how it differs from a receding hairline, and what to ask your barber.
Hairover Team
A widow’s peak is a V-shaped point in the center of the hairline. You can show it off with a slick back or a side part, or you can hide it with a textured fringe. It’s a natural feature that many people are born with, so you don’t have to do either. The best option depends on how you feel about it, and whether your hairline has changed.
Widow’s peak or receding hairline?
A true widow’s peak is usually there from early on and stays fairly stable. A receding hairline changes over time, as the temples move back, which can make a peak more noticeable. Compare old photos if you aren’t sure. If it’s changing, see haircuts for a receding hairline and speak to a dermatologist if you are concerned.
Showing it off
Slick back. This style makes the peak a sharp, deliberate feature. It looks great with thick hair. See slick back vs. pompadour.
Pompadour or quiff. Lifting your hair up and back shows the shape and adds height. See pompadour vs. quiff.
Side part. Part your hair just off the peak, sweeping it across. It’s classic and flattering.
High ponytail or sleek bun. For long hair, these show off the point, and it can look quite striking.
Buzz cut. A close cut keeps the outline clean and intentional. See the buzz cut guide.
Covering it
Textured crop. Forward hair covers the peak with a natural, messy finish. See the textured crop guide.
French crop. A heavier fringe hides most of it. See the French crop guide.
Curtain bangs. The peak often gives a natural starting point for the part, since hair can split there. See our curtain bangs ideas.
Side-swept fringe. A diagonal covers the point softly. See curtain vs. side-swept bangs.
Curly fringe. Curls falling forward hide it completely. See curly fringe haircuts.
A center part?
A center part sits right on the point, which can emphasize it. Some people love this look. If you don’t, move your part to the side, so it starts just beside the peak. Our center part vs. side part guide can help you test it.
Face shape notes
A widow’s peak can make a forehead look heart-shaped. If you’d like to soften this, curtain bangs help, and our heart-shaped face guide has more. Long faces also benefit from a fringe that hides the height. Check your outline with our free face shape detector.
What to tell your barber
“I have a widow’s peak, and I’d like to [show it / cover it]. Please leave enough length at the front to do that, and don’t shave or square off the hairline.”
That last part matters. A line-up that cuts straight across removes your natural hairline, and regrowth becomes easy to see. If you want a lined-up look, ask your barber to follow your natural shape.
Should you do anything about it?
Probably not. If it bothers you, a cut is a simple solution. Plucking or shaving it can leave stubble and irritation, and it doesn’t last. Other options exist, like hair removal treatments, but they’re worth discussing with a professional.
Try it both ways
A slick back and a forward crop will look very different on the same face. Upload a clear photo to Hairover, get a hair analysis, and try hairstyles on your own face in Style Studio.
FAQ
Is a widow's peak a sign of balding?
Not by itself. Many people are born with one. A peak that becomes more pronounced over time as the temples recede can be a sign of a changing hairline, so compare old photos.
Should I shave my widow's peak?
It's usually not a good idea. It grows back with stubble that's easy to see, and it can make your hairline look less natural. A good cut is the better approach.
What is the best fringe for a widow's peak?
A side-swept fringe or curtain bangs work well. A blunt, straight fringe can be harder, since the hair at the peak may want to separate or lift.
