Glossary of facial and looksmaxing terms

A reference for the terminology used across ascendbase guides. Each term is defined concisely so it can be quoted directly.

Facial Width-to-Height Ratio (FWHR)FWHR: The ratio of bizygomatic facial width to upper-face height (nasion to upper lip). Higher values are associated with a more masculine, square-jaw appearance and are among the most studied correlates of perceived facial masculinity.
Facial Harmony Score: ascendbase's composite 0–100 index of overall facial balance, combining several measured ratios (frontal, profile, nose) into a single proportion score. It is a heuristic for balance, not a measure of a person's worth.
Hunter Eyes: An eye appearance characterized by a deep-set position, positive canthal tilt (lateral corner higher than medial), and minimal upper-eyelid exposure. Contrasted with 'prey eyes' (round, high lid show, negative tilt).
Canthal Tilt: The angle formed by a line between the medial and lateral eye corners. A positive (lateral-up) tilt is broadly associated with a more attractive, alert appearance.
Nasal Tip Projection (DNTP)DNTP: Dorsum-Nose-Tip Projection: the angle describing how far the nasal tip projects relative to the dorsum and the face. Insufficient projection reads as under-projected; excessive projection as pinched.
Downturned Nose: A nose whose tip and nostril axis incline downward (negative inclination), often perceived as harsh or aged. Measured via the nostril-axis and septum-inclination angles in ascendbase's analyzer.
Forward Growth: Anterior (frontward) development of the maxilla and midface, associated with a defined midface, upright facial posture, and an adequate airway. Contrasted with vertical or downward growth.
Midface Ratio: The proportion of midface height relative to overall facial width and height. Underdevelopment (a recessed midface) is a common looksmaxing concern addressed via forward-growth work.
Facial Symmetry: The degree of bilateral correspondence between the left and right halves of the face. Higher symmetry is broadly correlated with perceived attractiveness, though mild asymmetry is normal.
Golden Ratio (facial): Phi (≈1.618) used as a reference proportion for aesthetically balanced facial features; many 'ideal' facial ratios are framed against golden-ratio approximations.
Philtrum: The vertical groove between the base of the nose and the upper lip. Its length and projection influence perceived lip support and midface balance.
Mandibular Definition: The visibility and angularity of the lower jaw (mandible), influenced by leanness, masseter development, and bone structure; a key component of overall 'facial definition'.