Philtrum Length
The distance from the base of your nose to the top of your upper lip.
| Reference (male) | 0.252 philtrum height ÷ lower third height |
|---|---|
| Reference (female) | 0.211 philtrum height ÷ lower third height |
| Weight in composite | 3% |
| Category | Lips |
| Note | Shorter scores higher. |
The column between nose and lip
The philtrum is the grooved column between the nose base and the upper lip, framed by the two philtral ridges. Its length relative to the lower third is a strong driver of whether the midface reads as compact or elongated, and it lengthens gradually with age as the upper lip loses volume and descends.
Measured as a share of the lower third
MogTracker measures philtrum height and divides by the height of the lower third, so the result is a proportion rather than an absolute distance and does not vary with camera distance. The references are 0.252 for men and 0.211 for women — a proportionally shorter philtrum being the female reference.
The smallest weight in the set
Shorter scores better, and the tolerance on this metric was deliberately loosened during calibration after it returned near-zero scores for ordinary faces. Its 3% weight is the smallest of any scored metric, so it is rarely the reason a composite is low even when the metric itself scores poorly. It reads the same region as lower-third proportions, and the two are worth interpreting together.
How 123,813 people score on philtrum length
Scores sit high for most people, which is the intended result of a correction rather than a generous tolerance. This metric previously returned near-zero for ordinary faces and its tolerance was widened during calibration; what you see now is the distribution after that fix. Given the smallest weight in the set, it is worth reading mainly as context for the lower third rather than as something to act on.
| Score band | Share | % | Scans |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0–19 | 5.0% | 6,153 | |
| 20–39 | 8.8% | 10,912 | |
| 40–59 | 13.6% | 16,898 | |
| 60–79 | 21.4% | 26,527 | |
| 80–100 | 51.1% | 63,323 |
Mean 72.65 out of 100 — 8th highest average of the 16 metrics. Figures from MogTracker's own scans, captured 2026-08-14.
How to improve your philtrum length
A shorter philtrum (groove from nose to lips) signals youth. Ideal: under 15% of lower third.
Recommendations are grouped by how invasive they are. Non-invasive options change how the feature reads to an observer; surgical options change the underlying structure and therefore the measurement itself.
If you scored Excellent
Your philtrum length is short and youthful — no changes needed.
Non-invasive
- Philtrum length naturally increases with age — SPF and retinol around the mouth area help preserve elasticity
If you scored Good
Your philtrum is within a good range. Subtle upper lip emphasis can optimize further.
Non-invasive
- Overlining the upper lip border subtly shortens perceived philtrum
Minimally invasive
- Small amount of upper lip filler adds projection and reduces visible philtrum length
If you scored Average
Your philtrum is moderately long. This is one of the most correctable facial features.
Non-invasive
- Upper lip liner above the natural border creates a daily shortened appearance
Minimally invasive
- Botox lip flip: relaxes orbicularis oris to roll upper lip upward
- Upper lip filler adds projection and illusion of shorter philtrum
If you scored Below average
Your philtrum is notably long — this is a high-impact area since it signals facial aging.
Non-invasive
- Daily upper lip overlining is the quickest non-invasive fix
Minimally invasive
- Botox lip flip + upper lip filler combo for maximum non-surgical shortening
Surgical
- Bullhorn lip lift: removes skin under the nose to shorten philtrum by 3–6mm permanently
Common questions about philtrum length
Why is my philtrum score low when it looks normal?
This metric was over-punishing in earlier versions and its tolerance has since been widened. It carries a 3% weight, so it has little effect on your composite either way.
Does a philtrum get longer with age?
Yes. The upper lip loses volume and descends over time, which lengthens the philtrum gradually. It is one of the few measurements in the set that changes on its own without any intervention.