Other researchers have suggested that the symmetry or youthfulness of a face is what makes it attractive. Although we agree that symmetry, youthfulness, or a smile can contribute to the attractiveness of a face, it does not necessarily make a face attractive. We have have shown that faces can be highly symmetrical or youthful, but are not necessarily attractive. Thus, we view averageness as fundamental and necessary to facial attractiveness. Averageness is not the only component of attractiveness, but without it no face will be attractive.
Attractive faces are only average.