Contouring is more than a beauty trend; it’s a transformative makeup technique that sculpts and lifts your facial features. When I first learned to contour, I was amazed at how a few strategic strokes could enhance my cheekbones, slim my nose, and define my jawline.
Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your skills, this guide has everything you need to master contouring.
Meet the Expert
Before diving in, I want to share insights from my favorite makeup artist, who taught me that contouring isn’t about masking flaws but enhancing your natural beauty. They recommend starting with minimal products and focusing on technique. Their golden rule: blend, blend, blend.
Benefits of Contouring
Why contour at all? Here’s what it can do for you:
- Enhances natural features: Highlight your cheekbones, jawline, and brow bones.
- Adds dimension: Prevents your face from looking flat under makeup.
- Customizes your look: Adjust the appearance of your face shape.
- Perfect for photos: Creates a professional, polished look.
Personally, contouring has boosted my confidence and made my makeup routine feel complete.
Essential Products and Tools
Your contouring kit doesn’t need to be complicated. Let’s break down the must-haves:
Contour Sticks
- Why I love them: Easy to apply and perfect for beginners. They’re creamy, blendable, and mess-free.
- Top picks: Fenty Beauty Match Stix, NYX Wonder Stick.
- Pro tip: Choose one shade darker than your natural skin tone for a subtle effect.
Contour Creams
- Why they work: Ideal for dry skin and for those who want a dewy finish.
- Top picks: Huda Beauty Tantour, KVD Beauty ModCon.
- Pro tip: Use a damp beauty sponge for seamless blending.
Highlighter
- Why you need it: Adds brightness to the high points of your face.
- Top picks: Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector, Rare Beauty Positive Light.
- Pro tip: Apply sparingly on cheekbones, brow bones, and the tip of your nose.
Pressed Powders
- Why they’re great: Sets your contour and adds a natural finish.
- Top picks: Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Finish, MAC Studio Fix.
- Pro tip: Apply with a fluffy brush for a soft-focus effect.
Setting Powder
- Why it matters: Locks in your makeup and controls shine.
- Top picks: Laura Mercier Translucent Powder, RCMA No Color Powder.
- Pro tip: Focus on areas prone to oiliness, like the T-zone.
How to Contour Your Face
Let’s walk through the steps together. Trust me, it’s easier than it looks.
1. Create a Base
- Start with a clean, moisturized face.
- Apply primer to smooth your skin.
- Use foundation and concealer to create an even base.
Tip: I’ve found that a matte foundation works best for contouring.
2. Apply Contour
- Use a contour stick or cream on areas you want to define:
- Under cheekbones
- Along the jawline
- Sides of the nose
- Temples
Tip: Less is more. Build up the product gradually.
3. Blend It Out
- Use a damp beauty sponge or a dense brush.
- Blend in upward motions to lift the face.
My experience: Blending is key to avoiding harsh lines.
4. Add Highlight and Blush
- Apply highlighter to the high points of your face:
- Cheekbones
- Brow bones
- Tip of the nose
- Cupid’s bow
- Add a pop of blush to the apples of your cheeks.
5. Set
- Dust setting powder over your makeup to lock it in place.
- Focus on the T-zone for a shine-free finish.
Tips for Contouring Different Face Shapes
Your face shape determines where you should apply contour. Here’s what works best for each:
- Round face: Focus on the sides of your forehead and under your cheekbones to add length.
- Square face: Contour along the jawline and temples for a softer look.
- Heart-shaped face: Shade the forehead and chin to balance proportions.
- Oval face: Light contouring under the cheekbones enhances the natural structure.
Experiment to find what complements your features best.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Over-applying product: Start light and build up as needed.
- Skipping blending: Harsh lines can ruin the look.
- Using the wrong shade: Choose a shade slightly darker than your skin tone.
- Ignoring your face shape: Customize your contour placement.
- Skipping setting powder: This leads to a patchy finish.
I learned these lessons the hard way, but now my routine is foolproof.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I contour with just powder products? A: Absolutely. Powder products are beginner-friendly and great for oily skin.
Q: How do I choose the right contour shade? A: Go one to two shades darker than your skin tone. Test it on your jawline for the best match.
Q: Do I need expensive products to contour? A: No! There are plenty of affordable options like e.l.f. and NYX that work beautifully.
Q: How long does it take to contour? A: With practice, you can complete your contour in under five minutes.
Contouring may seem intimidating, but with the right products and techniques, it becomes second nature. I hope my personal tips and tricks inspire you to experiment and discover what works best for you. Let’s sculpt and shine together!
