There are many types of forehead hairlines and each is unique, but most are considered regular or irregular based on the symmetry of the hairline. Within these two categories, there are three recognized forehead hairlines. The widow's peak, the high hairline, and the receding hairline are common. They may be regular or irregular and occur in both men and women. Hairlines can also be affected by hair loss, either from male or female pattern baldness or other hair disorders.
Hairlines typically fall into one of two categories: regular or irregular. Regular hairlines are symmetric, smooth, and uninterrupted. They may be squared-off or rounded, depending on facial shape. Irregular hairlines are not smooth, straight lines. Instead, they may follow areas along the head, like the temples, or other parts of the bone structure, with multiple peaks and valleys in the line.
The widow's peak hairline has a point at the middle of the forehead, framing the face in a modified heart shape. The peak can be quite small or very pronounced. There are various theories of the etymology of the name, including a superstition that said the feature was an omen of eventual widowing to a connection with an architectural feature on old-fashioned beach homes that included a small, high balcony where women awaiting their husbands could stand and watch for ships.
Another forehead hairline is actually a result of the length of forehead between the eyebrows and the hairline itself. About 2 to 2.5 inches (5 to 6 cm) for women and up to 3 or 3.5 inches (8 cm) for men is considered average. A lengthier measurement is known as a high hairline or "Tudor hair". The nickname comes from a popular style in the 16th century, during the reign of Queen Elizabeth in England, when women commonly plucked their hair to achieve a higher hairline.
Some forehead hairlines are due to hair loss. The receding hairline typically occurs to the left and right of the midpoint of the hairline. As the hair loss continues, the line becomes more distinct, forming the shape of a rounded M, with the midpoint often remaining intact.
Individuals who have suffered hair loss can have their hair replaced with surgery. Hair loss replacement surgery typically involves removing donor hairs from another area of the head or body, and placing them in the desired location. The process is meticulous, time consuming, and costly. Usually, the patient consults with the doctor to determine the forehead hairline that is appropriate for the patient's facial shape. Slightly irregular forehead hairlines are preferred as anything too perfect can look artificial.