Upturned nose
A small nose with a tip that slopes slightly upward.
The upturned nose is a facial feature characterised by a small size and a tip that curves gently upwards. It is also known as the celestial nose and may have a slight dent in the bridge. This shape was identified as common in European profiles in a 2011 study.
- Also known as the celestial nose.
- Often has a slight dent in the bridge.
- Common in European profiles per 2011 study.
- Carey Mulligan and Emma Watson have this shape.
- Distinct from the rounder snub nose.
What it is
An upturned nose is small in overall appearance. The tip of the nose curves slightly upwards, which gives it its name. This style is often called a celestial nose. It frequently features a slight dent or depression in the middle of the bridge. A snub nose is similar but tends to be rounder and more sharply upturned. In some cases, the nostrils of a snub nose are visible when looking at the face from the front. These variations are natural and occur across different populations.
History and origin
Abraham Tamir, a professor at Ben-Gurion University, conducted a study on nose shapes. He analysed nearly 1,800 photos, including images from art and snapshots of people in Israel and Europe. His work, published in 2011, categorised noses into fourteen types. The study noted that the turned-up or celestial nose was the most common shape found in European profile shots. It appeared in twenty-two percent of the images from that region.
What it means
The celestial nose is often viewed as a desirable shape. Some patients seek surgery to achieve this look, while others with a pronounced curve may wish to alter it. The study by Tamir described this shape as the most attractive among those surveyed. However, beauty standards vary, and what suits one person may not suit another. The goal for many is a nose that is in proportion with the rest of the face.
The science
Nose shapes are influenced by hereditary factors. Cartilage overgrowth can affect the structure, leading to bumps or curves. The upturned nose is distinct from the snub nose, which is rounder. Research indicates that nose shapes vary widely, with no two being exactly alike. Studies have limitations, such as focusing primarily on Caucasian noses, which may not represent global diversity.
Styling and care
This is a natural feature and does not require grooming. Those unhappy with the appearance of their nose may consider rhinoplasty. Surgeons can reshape the cartilage to alter the tip or bridge. Dermal fillers offer a non-surgical option to smooth lumps or add volume. Patients are encouraged to bring visual examples to consultations to help plan any potential treatment.
Questions people ask about Upturned nose
What is the difference between an upturned and a snub nose?
An upturned or celestial nose is small with a slight upward curve and often a dent in the bridge. A snub nose is similar but tends to be rounder and more sharply upturned, sometimes making the nostrils visible from the front.
Is the upturned nose considered attractive?
A 2011 study described the celestial nose as the most attractive shape among those surveyed. It was also noted as a desirable shape that patients often request when seeking rhinoplasty surgery.
Can you change an upturned nose?
Yes, rhinoplasty surgery can reshape the nose by removing or reshaping cartilage. Dermal fillers can also be used for a temporary, non-surgical fix to smooth bumps or alter the shape slightly.
Good reading and sources
There is no English Wikipedia article on Upturned nose yet, so the facts on this page come from the sources listed above: theprivateclinic.co.uk/blog/what-are-the-different-types-of-nose-shape, nbcnews.com/healthmain/there-are-14-different-kinds-noses-study-claims. Some are the subject's own pages, so its claims about itself are reported as its claims. EveryFaceShape wrote the text in its own words, with AI assistance, and compares it with the sources to make sure no passage is copied.
It may contain mistakes, and figures change over time. Nothing here is investment or buying advice. If something is wrong, tell us. Last refreshed 2026-11-15.
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