Nose plays an important role in both our appearance and respiratory function, acting as tiny filters that warms and clears the air we breathe. Mostly we think of noses in general terms, there are notable differences between male and female noses that go beyond just aesthetics.
This article explores the differences between male vs female noses, explaining how and why they vary. Read to find out.

The nose serves as the entry point for oxygen and its anatomical outline supports its functions. Richly supplied with blood vessels to warm air, it also has nasal hair to barrier foreign bodies.
Anatomical difference between male and female noses, are as follows:
- Contrasting Size: Male noses are usually large with defined angles giving a masculine look. Female noses are smaller and more delicate giving an elegant and soft look.
- Nostrils: A male person has wider nostrils and nasal bases compared to females.
- Nasal Skin: The skin of the female’s nose is thin as compared to males who have thick skin.
- Nasal Tip: A female nose has a prominent nasal tip as compared to male.
- Nasal Overview: Male noses are slightly outward with a straight or outward nasal bridge. While in female the bridge is smooth and has a slightly concave appearance.
Male Vs Female Noses: Physiological View
💡The size of the nose is related to the lean weight of the body.
Males have larger nostrils and noses to meet the greater oxygen demand. After puberty, males gain lean body weight which means more muscles and more oxygen demand.
While in females there is increase in lipids and fat mass meaning no excess oxygen demand so no larger nose. This explains their small and delicate nose.
Male Vs Female Nose: Cultural And Cosmetic Overview

In our society the difference of male vs female noses is distinct. The males should have prominent and more refined nasal features for their recognition as a strengthful person in the society. While the opposite is the case for females with small and more cylindrical noses.
Sometimes people opt for surgical procedures to enhance nasal features. These procedures maximize gender specific traits, such as refining the nasal bridges in males and getting subtle and smooth nasal outlines in females.
Male Vs Female Nose: The Developmental Path

Male vs female nose seems debatable since young age. There are certain changes that occur during adolescence leading to distinct noses.
Changes in nose begin at different ages:
- The nasal bridge grows after the birth; larger in males than females.
- The formation of nasal tissues finishes earlier in females as compared to males.
- The soft tissues of the nose are larger in women following adolescence as compared to men.
- The nose fully develops in females at the age of 15; and later in males.
Male Vs Female Nose: Does Aging Affect Nose?

Aging is a natural process affecting every body part including the nose, causing sagging. Male vs female nose aging differences;
- Nasal bone length decreases more in females than in males.
- Nasofrontal angle increases in males and nasal pyramidal angle increases in females.
- Nasal tip decreases in females and nose length increases in males.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a masculine nose shape?
A straight nose with a prominent nasal hump is a masculine nose.
What is a feminine nose?
A feminine nose is short, slightly curved, with an elevated tip.
What nose shape do men find most attractive?
Men find straight noses quite attractive. It is called the Greek nose and has a defined nasal bridge and narrow nostrils.
Do men have higher nose bridges?
Yes, men mostly have a prominent nasal bridge as compared to females.
Does rhinoplasty differ for male and female noses?
Yes, although the basic steps of rhinoplasty are the same but as the demand changes so there can be slight twists in the procedure.