Better cheekbones, honestly

1. Lateral projection (Bizygomatic width)

How far the zygomatic arches flare outward from the front view. When bizygomatic width is noticeably wider than both the forehead (bitemporal width) and the jaw corners (bigonial width), the face shows clear cheekbone taper - the hallmark of Diamond, Heart, and sculpted Oval face shapes.

2. Anterior & infraorbital projection (Forward support)

How well the maxilla and cheekbone support the soft tissue directly beneath the eyes and beside the nose. Strong anterior projection prevents under-eye hollowing and creates the classic three-quarter 'Ogee curve' highlight.

Body-composition leanness (the #1 lever for submalar definition)

A cheekbone is only visible to the human eye because of the contrast between the convex bone highlight and the concave hollow beneath it. Lowering overall body fat into an athletic range reduces fullness in the lower cheek pad, allowing light to catch the zygomatic shelf naturally.

Reducing chronic facial bloat & fluid retention

High dietary sodium, poor sleep, alcohol, and chronic dehydration cause extracellular water retention in the midface, flattening the cheek-to-jaw transition overnight. Consistent hydration, potassium-rich whole foods, and 7–8 hours of sleep de-puff the midface within days.

Haircut volume placement & side taper

Where your hair is widest draws the viewer's eye horizontally. A clean taper at the temples (for men) or cheekbone-grazing curtain layers (for women) directs visual focus straight to the zygomatic arch instead of burying it behind ear-level bulk.

Beard cheek-line geometry or high-placement contour

For men, setting a crisp, slightly angled upper beard cheek line right along the submalar shadow acts like natural shading under the cheekbone. For makeup wearers, placing contour strictly above the line from the top of the ear to the corner of the mouth lifts the cheek rather than dragging it down.