Contouring has become a popular makeup technique in recent years, thanks to celebrities and beauty gurus who have perfected the art. Contouring involves using different shades of makeup to enhance and define the shape of your face, creating the appearance of higher cheekbones, a slimmer nose, and a more defined jawline. While contouring may seem intimidating to beginners, with a little practice and the right tools, anyone can master the art of contouring like a pro.
Here are some tips and tricks to help you achieve a flawless contoured look:
1. Choose the right products: When it comes to contouring, using the right products is crucial. Look for a contour powder, cream, or stick that is a few shades darker than your natural skin tone. Similarly, choose a highlighter that is a few shades lighter than your skin tone. Using the correct shades will help create a natural-looking contour.
2. Invest in the right tools: While you can use your fingers to apply contour and highlight, investing in the right tools can make the process much easier and more precise. A contour brush, a blending sponge, and a highlighter brush are essential tools for achieving a flawless contoured look.
3. Start with a clean, moisturized face: Before you begin contouring, make sure your face is clean and moisturized. This will help the makeup blend seamlessly and last longer. Use a primer to create a smooth canvas for your contour and highlight.
4. Map out your face: Before you start applying contour and highlight, take a moment to map out your face. Using a contour stick or powder, draw lines on your face where you want to contour – along your cheekbones, jawline, nose, and forehead. Then, using a highlighter, apply it to the high points of your face – the tops of your cheekbones, the bridge of your nose, and your brow bone.
5. Blend, blend, blend: One of the most important steps in the contouring process is blending. Blend the contour and highlight with a blending sponge or brush until there are no harsh lines or edges. This will help create a natural-looking contour that enhances your features without looking too harsh.
6. Set your makeup: To ensure your contour and highlight last all day, set your makeup with a translucent powder. This will help lock in your makeup and prevent it from smudging or fading throughout the day.
7. Practice makes perfect: Contouring can be intimidating at first, but like any skill, practice makes perfect. Take the time to experiment with different techniques and products to find what works best for you. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes – it’s all part of the learning process.
8. Keep it subtle: When it comes to contouring, less is more. It’s easy to go overboard with contour and highlight, so start with a light hand and build up the intensity gradually. Remember, the goal of contouring is to enhance your natural features, not completely change your face shape.
9. Tailor your contour to your face shape: Contouring is not a one-size-fits-all technique. It’s important to tailor your contour to your unique face shape. For example, if you have a round face, focus on contouring along the jawline and temples to create the illusion of more defined angles.
10. Have fun: Most importantly, have fun with contouring! Makeup is a form of self-expression, so don’t be afraid to experiment and try new techniques. Whether you’re going for a natural daytime look or a dramatic evening look, contouring can help you achieve a flawless finish.
In conclusion, mastering the art of contouring is all about practice, patience, and the right tools. With these tips and tricks, you’ll be on your way to achieving a flawless contoured look like a pro. So, grab your contour palette and brushes and start contouring like a boss!
