Whether a niqab can show a woman's face depends on the specific style and the wearer's interpretation of Islamic guidelines regarding modesty. While some niqabs cover the entire face except for the eyes, others may leave a portion of the face visible.
The permissibility of showing the face is also a point of scholarly discussion. According to some interpretations, uncovering the face and hands is permissible.
The majority of scholars maintain that it is not obligatory for a woman to wear niqab and gloves; it is permissible for a woman to uncover her face and hands.
Therefore, a niqab can be designed and worn in a way that shows the face, though it may still offer more coverage than a simple headscarf.