Contouring has become a popular makeup trend in recent years, with beauty bloggers and makeup artists showcasing their skills in sculpting and defining the face. But mastering the art of contouring can be daunting for beginners, with the seemingly endless array of products and techniques available. However, with a few tips and tricks, anyone can achieve a beautifully contoured look that highlights their best features.
First and foremost, it’s important to choose the right products for contouring. Look for a contour powder or cream that is a few shades darker than your natural skin tone. Avoid products with shimmer or glitter, as these can make the contouring look unnatural. For beginners, a matte bronzer can also work well for contouring.
When applying contour, remember the key areas to focus on: the hollows of the cheeks, the temples, the jawline, and the sides of the nose. Use a small, angled brush to apply the contour product in these areas, starting with a small amount and building up the color gradually. Blend the product outwards towards the hairline to avoid harsh lines.
For a more defined contour, try using a shade that is slightly darker than your usual contour shade. Apply this deeper shade in the same areas as before, but focus on blending it out more carefully to avoid a harsh contrast.
Highlighting is also an important step in contouring, as it helps to brighten and lift the face. Choose a highlighter that is a few shades lighter than your natural skin tone and apply it to the high points of the face, such as the tops of the cheekbones, the bridge of the nose, the brow bone, and the cupid’s bow. Blend the highlighter outwards for a seamless finish.
To blend both the contour and highlight together, use a clean, fluffy brush or a beauty blender to gently blend the products into the skin. This will help to create a more natural and seamless look.
Finally, don’t forget to set your contour and highlight with a translucent powder to ensure longevity and prevent any products from moving throughout the day.
Overall, mastering the art of contouring takes practice and patience, but with the right products and techniques, anyone can achieve a beautifully sculpted look. Experiment with different shades and products to find what works best for your skin tone and face shape, and don’t be afraid to try new techniques to enhance your contouring skills. With a bit of practice, anyone can become a contouring pro.
