How to Look More Trustworthy
Photo: Getty
Some people just look guilty, no matter how honest, kind, orinnocent they behave. New York Magazine reports that in a recent study of three experiments led by Dr. Brian C. Holtz of Temple University, researchers found out that people with more innately trustworthy-looking faces were less likely to be blamed at fault by their peers, regardless of their actions. Conmen have long exploited this human instinct to gain trust while making first impressions: if your eyebrows form an upside-down V shape together and the corners of your mouth are lifted upwards in a hint of a smile, you’re trustworthy. If your eyebrows form a V shape and the corners of your mouth droop downwards, you’re untrustworthy. That said, if you’re guilty without trial, don’t despair—the art of makeup and grooming can help you look more like a girl/boy scout:
Related: How to Do Your Makeup Like Angelina Jolie
Contour your cheekbones if they’re not already pronounced.
High cheekbones make your face look fuller and make your smile look wider. Studies have shown that people with prominent cheekbones are perceived to be more trustworthy due to their approachability and attractiveness. Just look at Angelina Jolie—who doesn’t adore her? And then look at actor Charlie Sheen—he always looks like he’s up to no good.
Groom your eyebrows.
Not everyone can pull off Brooke Shields’ iconic bushy brows, but it doesn’t matter how thick or thin your brows are when it comes to gaining trust. Ideally, you’d be blessed with naturally high eyebrows, but if not, consider shaping them into an upturned curve like that of actress Camilla Belle.
Make eye contact. Look but don’t stare.
You have beautiful eyes—so make use of them. Making eye contact with people establishes a direct connection and leaves no doubt as to where your attention is going. If you’re worried about creepily staring, consider looking away for a second once in a while, which looks more genuine and authentic than an intense staring contest.
Mirror other peoples’ body language.
When you imitate someone else’s body language, gestures, or speech patterns, you have a greater chance of establishing rapport with that person. You not only look more interested and invested in the other person, but also more empathetic to the conversation.
Related: Kate Moss & Jessica Alba: The Most Requested Smiles
Smile—and get rid of that permanent scowl.
You automatically appear more pleasant if your lips are upturned slightly, and just smiling more will make you appear warmer and more approachable. Consider brightening your smile with a lip liner and gloss around your lips, and making your teeth look whiter with a lip color that has blue undertones. Benefit’s blue-tinted California Kissin’ Smile Brightening Lip Shine ($20) can be applied over bare lips or your favorite shade.
