Phi. The Golden Ratio of nature and beauty.
When we take a close look at nature, architecture, and the human face and body, it is no accident that mathematical relationships are found in their design. The Golden Ratio, a ratio of 1:1.618 is found in the proportions of the Egyptian pyramids, the nautilus shell, beautiful faces and the ideal body. Our eyes are attracted to objects with this ratio and find them visually appealing.
The Golden Ratio, also known as Phi (a letter of the Greek alphabet), is derived from the ratio of line segments that occur when it is divided so that the ratio of B to A is the same as the ratio of C to B (see below diagram). This ratio is1.618.
The golden ratio in beauty
It is shown that from a young age, even 1 day old, we recognise beauty.
We can sense beauty. And it only takes a tenth of a second to recognise it. Beauty is not in the eye of the beholder. It is innate. A study performed in the University of Exeter in the UK showed that babies as young as one day old became fixated for longer periods of time on more attractive faces. A group took a variety of pictures of female faces and asked people to rank them from 1 to 5 based on their attractiveness. The researchers then paired photos that were at the opposite ends of the attractiveness scale, as ranked in the survey. These photos were then presented to newborn infants ranging from one to seven days old, whilst still in hospital. The photos were held about 30cm away from the babies, and it was noted where the babies’ attention was focused.It was noted that the babies looked for longer at the more attractive faces.
The study illustrates our innate ability to recognise beauty. Our brains seem to be hardwired to recognise beauty in a tenth of a second when we see it. However, decoding exactly what makes a face beautiful is more difficult. The use of the Golden Ratio helps us to understand beauty and how to decipher it.
The Golden Ratio can outline what the proportions of the face should be, including the length of facial structures e.g nose length / chin length in relation to other areas. This does not mean that all faces should look the same, however. Many of the world’s top models, from different countries, all exhibit Phi ratios, despite significant differences in their appearances.
At Victorian Cosmetic Institute, we use Golden Ratio calipers to help assess the proportions of the face.
These calipers can help to guide in the enhancement and rejuvenation of your face. For example, when dermal fillers are used in the face, measuring phi proportions can help to ensure that the placement and volume of the fillers is appropriate, accurate, and not overdone.
To booka Phi assessment, please call 1300 863 824. One of our Cosmetic Doctors or Cosmetic Nurseswill be able to consult you and provide you with advice on how to create the most attractive, proportioned, and youthful version of yourself, using the Phi ratio.
