THE X -FACTOR

For decades, it has been understood that facial symmetry plays a huge role in beauty and what we find attractive. Perhaps this is because we have a built-in sense for proportion, for symmetry, and for what feels right. But is a perfect symmetrical face really the keystone of beauty? And what other key factors are there in facial attractiveness? Dr Xenephin Ludick provides the answers.

- Dr Xenephin Ludick

What makes an attractive man? Is it his height? His perfect smile? Or his bulging muscles (Vin Diesel style)? Well, according to the la-la land of Hollywood, it’s none of the above.

Instead, the Los Angeles media has a different, more sophisticated method of deciphering the code of beauty. And it’s this very unique method that singled out the very charismatic George Clooney as the sexiest man, followed by the enigmatic Bradly Cooper in second place, and last (but not surprisingly), the beautiful Brad Pitt coming in at third.

But let’s face it: while no one can deny that all three of these men are good-looking, are they really the most attractive? It seems like a bit of a stretch, especially in a place where there is a McSteamy around every corner… but there is a method to this madness.

In a nutshell, the code of beauty that was utilized is based on a highly scientific technique, one where a ‘perfect ratio’ is used to determine who would be crowned king of the hotties. And the result: Mr Clooney came out tops as the proud owner of a face that is 92% perfect (how’re those odds?), with Bradley Cooper and Brad Pitt following close behind.

But wait a minute… isn’t beauty in the eye of the beholder? I reckon so – especially when you consider how many people would disagree with Mr Clooney holding the sexiest man title. After all, what about all the Idris Elbas of the world? The Chris Hemsworths and the Hugh Jackmans? Surely, they should get a sexy crown as well? Or at least a medal…

Needless to say, this got us thinking. What makes us attractive? Youth? Symmetry? The golden ratio of Leonardo da Vinci? Let’s have a look at a few of the reasons:

Symmetry