Principles of Hair Design

Front

Highest point on the top of the head.

Back

apex

Front

Established when two imaginary halves of a hairstyle have an equal visual weight, but the two halves are positioned unevenly; asymmetry can be horizontal or diagonal.

Back

Asymmetrical Balance

Front

Related to establishing equal or appropriate proportions to create symmetry; in hairstyling it is the relationship of height to width.

Back

balance

Front

The fringe area; triangular section that begins at the apex, or high point of the head, and ends at the front corners.

Back

bang area

Front

Very tight curl.

Back

coil

Front

Curving inward; prominent forehead and chin, with other features receded.

Back

concave profile

Front

Horizontal and vertical lines that meet at a 90-degree angle and create a hard edge.

Back

contrasting lines

Front

Curving outward; receding forehead and chin.

Back

convex profile

Front

Lines moving in a circular or semicircular direction; used to soften a design.

Back

curved lines

Front

Defines form and space; presence of one line nearly always means that there are other involved.

Back

design line