Introduction
Contouring has become a popular makeup technique in recent years, especially for those who want to create a more structured and defined facial appearance. By using dark and light shades of makeup, it is possible to emphasize or minimize certain facial features, making them appear more pronounced or less noticeable.
However, contouring can be intimidating for beginners. It’s not always easy to know which products to use, how to apply them, or how best to blend everything together. This is why we’ve put together the ultimate guide to contouring, including tips, tricks, and step-by-step tutorials to help you achieve a flawless, natural look.
“Get Chiseled Cheekbones and a Defined Jawline with These Simple Contouring Hacks”
When it comes to facial structure, contouring is an essential part of the makeup routine. A well-contoured face not only looks more defined and sculpted, but it also has the ability to bring out the best features of your face, like your cheekbones and jawline.
If you’re new to contouring, start with a cream product that’s easy to blend and build. Some great options include cream contour palettes from Anastasia Beverly Hills or Maybelline. For a more natural look, use a powder contour instead. Always make sure to choose a shade that’s slightly darker than your natural skin tone.
When applying your contour, start by using a brush to apply under your cheekbones, along your jaw, and around the temples. Blend in a circular motion until you get your desired look. Keep in mind that it’s always better to blend too much than not enough. When in doubt, blend some more until your contour looks natural and seamless.
“Contouring 101: A Step-by-Step Tutorial for Sculpting Your Face”
If you’re unsure where to start, these step-by-step instructions are a great place to begin.
The key to successful contouring is to work with your natural face shape. Start by deciding which areas of your face you want to emphasize or minimize. Then choose the right contour kit for you, and follow these steps:
1. Apply foundation and concealer as you normally would.
2. Use a cream or powder contour product, and apply it to the areas you want to define. Common areas include the cheeks, jawline, forehead, and nose.
3. Use a highlighter to accentuate the high points of your face, such as the tops of your cheekbones, bridge of your nose, and under your eyebrows.
4. Blend all of your products together with a brush or sponge until you achieve a natural-looking finish.
“Pro Makeup Artists Share Their Favorite Contouring Products and Techniques”
For those looking to take their contouring game to the next level, we’ve got pro makeup artists’ favorite techniques and products for you to try.
Many makeup artists swear by cream contour products as they provide a more natural, skin-like finish and are easier to blend. Recommended products include the Tom Ford Shade and Illuminate, the Huda Beauty Tantour and the Kevyn Aucoin Contour Book. Meanwhile, for powder contour, we suggest the infamous Charlotte Tilbury Filmstar Bronze and Glow, Benefit Hoola Bronzer, and the Fenty Beauty Match Stix Trio.
It’s also important to note that the key to successful contouring lies in the tools you use. Try out different brushes and sponges to find what works best for you. Some artists love using angled brushes while others prefer a sponge for a more blended finish.
“5 Common Contouring Mistakes (and How to Fix Them) for Picture-Perfect Results”
Contouring can be tricky, and making mistakes is inevitable. However, by knowing the most common mistakes, you can avoid making them and even fix them when they happen.
Some common mistakes include using too much product, choosing the wrong shade, and not blending properly. To fix these mistakes, try blending more, using less product, or using a lighter shade of makeup for a more natural look. Also, be aware of applying your contour in the wrong areas of your face. Remember to take your natural face shape into account to achieve a natural look.
“Contouring for Different Face Shapes: How to Enhance Your Features with Makeup”
As mentioned earlier, understanding your face shape is critical when it comes to contouring. Each face shape requires a specific application technique to achieve its best features. These are the most common face shapes:
- Round – slimming out the cheeks and creating contrast
- Oval – contouring and highlighting the higher planes of the face
- Heart – narrowing the jawline and forehead while creating definition and color
- Square – softening the jawline and creating height at the crown
- Diamond – bringing balance to the face by creating definition using the forehead, cheekbone, and jawline
Once you determine your face shape, we suggest following a simple step-by-step guide that highlights the best features of your shape.
Conclusion
Contouring can be intimidating at first, but with practice and patience, anyone can achieve a naturally chiseled look.