Contouring and highlighting are two makeup techniques that can completely transform your face and enhance your natural features. When done correctly, contouring can help define your facial structure, while highlighting can add a radiant glow to your skin. However, mastering these techniques can be tricky, especially for beginners. That’s why I’ve put together the ultimate guide to contouring and highlighting to help you achieve a flawless, sculpted look every time.
Contouring is all about creating shadows on your face to define your features and add dimension. To start, choose a contour shade that is two to three shades darker than your natural skin tone. Use a contour brush to apply the product to the areas of your face where shadows naturally fall, such as the hollows of your cheeks, along your jawline, and on the sides of your nose. Remember to blend the product outwards and upwards to create a seamless finish.
When it comes to highlighting, the goal is to bring light to the high points of your face and accentuate your best features. Choose a highlighter shade that is one to two shades lighter than your skin tone and apply it to the tops of your cheekbones, the bridge of your nose, and the inner corners of your eyes. You can also apply highlighter to your cupid’s bow and brow bone to add an extra touch of luminosity.
To achieve the perfect contour and highlight, it’s important to use the right tools. Invest in a good contour brush, highlighting brush, and blending sponge to ensure flawless application. Blend, blend, blend – this is the key to a natural-looking contour and highlight. Use a light hand and build up the product gradually to avoid any harsh lines.
When choosing contour and highlight products, opt for cream or powder formulas based on your skin type. Cream products are best for dry skin, as they provide a dewy finish and are easier to blend. Powder products are ideal for oily skin, as they help control shine and provide a matte finish. Experiment with different formulas to see which works best for you.
Next, let’s talk about contouring and highlighting for different face shapes. For round faces, focus on contouring the sides of your face to create a slimmer appearance. Highlight the center of your face to bring attention to your features. For square faces, contour along the jawline and forehead to soften angular features. Highlight the center of your face to balance out the sharp lines. For heart-shaped faces, contour the sides of your forehead and jawline to add fullness. Highlight the center of your face to draw attention to your eyes and cheekbones. For oval faces, you can contour and highlight in a way that enhances your natural symmetry.
Finally, don’t forget to set your contour and highlight with a translucent powder to lock everything in place and prevent any smudging throughout the day. Finish off your look with a setting spray to ensure your makeup lasts all day long.
Contouring and highlighting may seem intimidating at first, but with practice and the right techniques, you can master these skills and take your makeup game to the next level. Remember, makeup is all about enhancing your natural beauty and expressing yourself, so have fun experimenting with different looks and finding what works best for you. With this ultimate guide to contouring and highlighting, you’ll be able to achieve a flawless, sculpted look every time.
