How to Draw a Male Face

In this tutorial, we will show you how to draw a male face. We will also explain some of the finer details and show you how to give the drawing a more three-dimensional appearance.

All faces are similar in structure, but they have many small differences. It is these differences that allow us to distinguish one person from another.

Male faces, like female faces, have their own characteristics. In this male face drawing tutorial, we explain these features in detail and show you how to convey them on paper.

If you are ready, let’s begin this tutorial on how to draw a male face.

How to draw a male face step by step

Step 1: Sketch the head shape

Start by sketching an oval for the male head. At this stage, establish the overall shape of the future head. One of the key differences between a male and a female face is that a male face is usually larger and has a broader chin, while the sides taper less noticeably toward the chin.

Step 2: Add facial guidelines

To place the facial features accurately, sketch several construction lines. Start with a vertical line through the center of the face. Then add a horizontal guideline. Mark the positions of the hairline, nose, and mouth on the vertical line, and indicate the corners of the eyes on the horizontal guideline. We explained this in detail in our article on drawing the human head accurately.

Step 3: Draw the male eyes

Using the construction lines, draw the male eyes. Outline the upper eyelids first, then the lower ones with smooth lines. Add the lacrimal caruncles in the inner corners of the eyes. Try to give the eyes a natural three-dimensional appearance.

Step 4: Shape the eyebrows

Outline the shape of the eyebrows first. Then use many short strokes to create the eyebrow texture. As you work, compare the different parts of your drawing to avoid mistakes. Looking at your male face drawing in a mirror from time to time is also a good way to spot symmetry issues.

Step 5: Add irises and pupils

Draw the irises first, then add the perfectly round pupils inside them. The upper and lower edges of the irises should be slightly covered by the eyelids. When drawing symmetrical details such as the eyes, work on both sides alternately so they remain even and consistent.

Step 6: Outline the male nose

Start drawing the nose using the construction lines created earlier. Add the nostrils, then outline the bridge with smooth, long lines. A male nose is often larger than a female nose, although this can vary from person to person.

Step 7: Draw the mouth

Using the construction guideline, sketch the center line of the mouth. Then outline the upper and lower lips. Male lips are often thinner than female lips, although this is not always the case. The character in this drawing has relatively full lips.

Step 8: Outline the jaw and ears

Draw the jawline, making the lower part of the face more angular. This stronger jaw is one of the typical characteristics of a male face. Then outline the ears and add the inner cartilage lines.

Step 9: Sketch the hairstyle

Return to the top of the head and sketch the hairstyle. Here we chose a classic men’s side-part hairstyle. Keep the hair less voluminous on the sides than on the top. You can also choose a different hairstyle or draw a beard.

Step 10: Refine the final outlines

Erase all of the construction lines. Then create the hair texture with long, smooth strokes. Draw the hair from the roots toward the ends to give it a more natural and realistic appearance.

Step 11: Add realistic shading

To give your male face drawing a realistic, three-dimensional appearance, add shadows. Begin with the darkest areas and gradually transition to the lighter ones. Darken the pupils and preserve the highlights.

Step 12: Complete drawing the male face

Your male face drawing is almost complete. Take a final look at the smaller details and correct any inaccuracies you notice. Compare the light and dark areas, and strengthen the shadows. This final check will make the portrait look dimensional.

As you can imagine, learning how to draw a male face does not end here. Repeat the tutorial several times while making small changes to the facial features and hairstyle. This will help reinforce the techniques and improve your portrait drawing skills.