The 5.5 Hair Rule helps you find the most flattering hair length based on your facial proportions. By measuring the distance between your earlobe and chin, you can tell whether short or long hair suits you best. It’s a simple yet effective guide — and at Brothers Barber Helsinki, our experts use it to create perfectly balanced, personalized styles for every face shape.
Have you ever wondered why certain hair lengths look better on you than others? The answer might be hidden in a simple formula called the 5.5 Hair Rule. Popularized by celebrity hairstylist John Frieda, this rule helps determine whether short or long hair best suits your facial proportions.
At Brothers Barber, we believe that the perfect haircut starts with understanding your face shape — and the 5.5 rule is one of the easiest ways to get it right.
What Is the 5.5 Hair Rule?
The 5.5 Hair Rule (also called the John Frieda Rule) is a quick method to figure out which hair length is most flattering for your face. The idea is based on the distance between your chin and your earlobe.
Here’s how it works:
- Take a ruler and a pencil.
- Place the pencil horizontally under your chin.
- Hold the ruler vertically under your earlobe, so it meets the pencil.
- Measure the distance between your earlobe and your chin in centimeters or inches.
Now, check the result:
- If it’s less than 5.5 cm (or about 2.25 inches) → Short hair suits you best.
- If it’s more than 5.5 cm → Long hair is more flattering.
It’s that simple — and surprisingly accurate for most face shapes.
Why the 5.5 Hair Rule Works
The rule is based on facial proportions and balance. People with shorter distances between their earlobe and chin usually have smaller, more delicate features, which short hairstyles accentuate beautifully.
Those with longer distances tend to have elongated face shapes, which look best with more length to frame and balance the face.
While it’s not an absolute rule, it gives a great starting point before choosing your next haircut.
Examples of Haircuts Based on the 5.5 Rule
If You Suit Short Hair (<5.5 cm):
You can confidently try styles like:
- Pixie cut
- Bob cut (chin-length or shorter)
- Textured crop
- Messy fringe
These styles highlight your jawline and bring out your features — perfect for oval, heart, and square face shapes.
If You Suit Long Hair (>5.5 cm):
You’ll look amazing with:
- Layered long cuts
- Soft waves or curls
- Long fringe or curtain bangs
- Tapered sides with volume on top (for men)
These help balance facial proportions and add harmony to longer features.
How the 5.5 Hair Rule Helps Men Too
Although it’s often used for women’s hairstyles, the 5.5 rule applies to men as well. If you’ve ever wondered whether a buzz cut, fade, or longer flow suits your face, this test can help.
At Brothers Barber in Helsinki, our stylists often use facial proportions — including the 5.5 rule — to recommend styles like:
- Low taper fade with fringe for shorter proportions
- Medium pompadour or quiff for longer ones
This ensures your haircut enhances your natural features while staying easy to maintain.
Tips for Using the Rule Correctly
- Always measure straight, not at an angle — this affects accuracy.
- Remember it’s a guide, not a strict rule. Face shape, hair texture, and style preferences also matter.
- Consult a professional barber or stylist for personalized advice before making a big change.
Why Professional Advice Still Matters
Even though the 5.5 rule gives a solid foundation, it doesn’t replace an expert’s eye. Factors like:
- Hair density and curl pattern
- Beard shape
- Head proportions
- Personal style
… all play a role in finding your ideal haircut.
At Brothers Barber, our team uses this rule as a starting point, combining it with professional analysis to tailor each client’s look. The goal isn’t just to follow a formula — it’s to create a style that fits you perfectly.
Conclusion
The 5.5 Hair Rule is a simple yet powerful way to discover which hair length suits your face best. While it offers great insight into facial balance, your perfect haircut should always reflect your personality and lifestyle.
Whether you’re planning to go short, stay long, or find a balanced in-between, visit Brothers Barber in Helsinki — where expert barbers blend art, precision, and proportion to create styles that truly bring out your best look.