Mastering the Art of Contouring: A Step-by-Step Guide
Have you ever looked at a celebrity’s perfectly chiseled cheekbones and wondered how they achieved such a perfect look? The answer is simple: contouring. Contouring is a makeup technique used to enhance the facial features by creating the illusion of depth and dimension, resulting in a stunningly sculpted appearance.
While contouring may seem daunting, it is a skill that can be mastered with the right knowledge and practice. In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at how to contour, from preparing the face to achieving a seamless blend.
Step-By-Step Guide
The key to mastering contouring is to follow the correct steps in the right order. Here’s a step-by-step guide to achieve a flawless look:
Preparing the Face for Contouring
Before applying any makeup, it is essential to start with a clean and moisturized base. This will ensure that your makeup goes on smoothly and evenly. After moisturizing, use a primer to help your makeup last longer.
Choosing the Right Shade
Choosing the right shade for contouring is crucial for a natural-looking result. The rule of thumb is to go for a shade that is two shades darker than your skin tone. Opt for a matte product that is easy to blend and build upon.
Mapping Out the Face
Mapping out your face will help you understand where to apply the contour. Start by identifying the areas you want to contour, such as the cheekbones, jawline, nose, and forehead. Use a contouring stick or powder to draw lines along these areas.
Applying the Contour
Using a brush or sponge, blend the contour product by following the lines you drew. Start with a minimal amount of product and gradually build it up to avoid a harsh and unnatural look. Remember to blend in circular motions and work your way upward.
Blending
Blending is the key to a seamless finish. Use a clean brush or sponge to blend the product until there are no harsh lines or visible edges. Work in small circular motions while blending to ensure an even finish.
Product Recommendations
When it comes to contouring products, there are several options available. Here are our recommendations for different skin tones and textures:
– Cream Contour: Ideal for dry skin as it blends easily and provides a natural-looking finish. We recommend the NYX Professional Makeup Cream Contour Palette.
– Powder Contour: Perfect for oily skin as it helps control shine and lasts long. Our top pick for powder contour is the Anastasia Beverly Hills Contour Kit.
– Stick Contour: Great for beginners as it is easy to apply and blend. Our favorite stick contour is the Fenty Beauty Match Stix Trio.
Face Shape-Specific Tips
Each face shape requires a specific contouring technique to achieve the desired result. Here are some tips for different face shapes:
– Round Face: Apply the contour along the jawline to create the illusion of a longer face.
– Square Face: Contour along the hairline to soften the angles of the face.
– Heart-Shaped Face: Focus on the outer corners of the forehead and jawline, and apply highlighter to the center of the face.
– Oval Face: Apply the contour slightly below the cheekbones to emphasize the natural contour of the face.
Celebrity-Inspired Looks
Celebrities have been flaunting their perfectly contoured looks for years. Here are some of our favorite celebrity-inspired looks and tutorials:
– Kim Kardashian: Achieve Kim’s iconic contoured look with this tutorial by Kim’s makeup artist, Mario Dedivanovic.
– Rihanna: Get Rihanna’s glowing contour with this tutorial by Rihanna’s makeup artist, Priscilla Ono.
– Ariana Grande: Follow this tutorial by Ariana Grande’s makeup artist, Rokael Lizama, to achieve her signature contoured look.
Do’s and Don’ts
Contouring can be tricky, and many people make common mistakes. Here are some essential do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:
– Do blend thoroughly to avoid harsh lines and edges.
– Do use a product that matches your skin tone and undertone.
– Do practice before trying out a new look for an event.
– Don’t go overboard with the product, as it can look unnatural.
– Don’t use a shimmer or glitter product for contouring, as it can emphasize the wrong areas.
Tools and Techniques
Contouring requires specific tools and techniques to get the desired result. Here are some tips for each tool and technique:
– Brush: Use a dense brush to apply the product and a fluffy brush to blend it in.
– Sponge: Dampen the sponge before blending to achieve a seamless finish.
– Strobing: Strobing involves using a highlighting product instead of a contour product to emphasize the natural high points of the face.
Day-to-Night Looks
Contouring looks different under natural and artificial light, so it’s essential to adjust your look accordingly. Here are some tips for transitioning from day to night:
– Use a bronzing product with shimmer for a glowing look in low light.
– Apply a highlighter to the cheekbones and nose to emphasize the high points of the face.
– Add a bold lip color or dramatic eye makeup for a night-time-ready look.
Conclusion
Contouring is a makeup technique that can enhance your natural features and transform your look. With the right products, tools, and techniques, anyone can master the art of contouring.
