Contouring has become a staple in the world of makeup, with countless beauty gurus and celebrities showcasing their perfectly sculpted faces on social media. Many people may feel intimidated by the idea of contouring, thinking it is a complicated and time-consuming process. However, with the right tools and techniques, achieving the perfect contour can be easier than you think.
In this blog post, we will break down the steps to achieve the perfect contour, from choosing the right products to applying them correctly. Whether you are a makeup novice or a contouring pro looking to brush up on your skills, these tips will help you achieve a flawless finish every time.
Choose the Right Products
The key to achieving the perfect contour is using the right products for your skin tone and type. When selecting contour products, opt for a shade that is a few shades darker than your natural skin tone. Look for a matte powder or cream formula that blends easily and does not appear harsh on the skin.
For highlighting, choose a shade that is a few shades lighter than your skin tone. A light-reflecting cream or powder will help to brighten and lift the areas of your face where you want to draw attention.
Invest in a good quality contour brush or sponge to help blend and buff the product seamlessly into the skin. A damp beauty sponge can also be used to blend out harsh lines and create a more natural finish.
Prep and Prime
Before starting your contour, it is important to prep and prime the skin to ensure a smooth canvas for application. Start by cleansing and moisturizing your face, and then apply a primer to help the contour products adhere to the skin.
If you have oily skin, set your primer with a translucent powder to prevent the contour products from slipping and sliding throughout the day. For dry skin, opt for a hydrating primer to keep your skin looking smooth and nourished.
Map Out Your Contour
To achieve the perfect contour, it is essential to map out the areas of your face that you want to define and sculpt. Start by identifying your natural bone structure, including your cheekbones, jawline, and forehead.
Using a contour brush or sponge, apply the darker shade to the hollows of your cheeks, your temples, along your jawline, and the sides of your nose. Blend the product outwards in a gentle tapping motion to avoid harsh lines and ensure a seamless finish.
Next, apply the highlighting shade to the high points of your face, including the tops of your cheekbones, the bridge of your nose, your brow bone, and your cupid’s bow. Blend the product using a clean brush or sponge to create a soft, radiant glow.
Blend, Blend, Blend
One of the most important steps in achieving the perfect contour is blending. Blending is key to creating a natural-looking finish and avoiding any harsh lines or streaks.
Using a soft, fluffy brush or beauty sponge, blend the contour and highlight products into your skin using circular motions. Focus on blending outwards and upwards to lift and sculpt the face.
Take your time with blending and build up the products gradually to avoid applying too much at once. Remember, less is more when it comes to contouring, so start with a light hand and add more product as needed.
Set Your Contour
To lock in your perfect contour and ensure it lasts all day, set your makeup with a translucent setting powder. Use a fluffy brush to lightly dust the powder over the contoured areas of your face, focusing on the areas where you applied the products.
Setting your contour will help to mattify any shine and keep your makeup in place throughout the day. If you prefer a more dewy finish, you can skip this step and opt for a setting spray instead.
Finish with a With a Pop of Color
To complete your perfect contour, add a pop of color to your cheeks with a blush or bronzer. Choose a shade that complements your skin tone and apply it to the apples of your cheeks for a youthful, flushed look.
Using a blush brush, sweep the product onto the apples of your cheeks and blend upwards towards your temples. This will help to tie the entire look together and add a natural flush of color to your complexion.
Final Thoughts
Contouring is a fun and creative way to enhance your natural features and create a sculpted, defined look. With the right products, tools, and techniques, achieving the perfect contour is easier than you think.
By following these steps and practicing your skills, you can master the art of contouring and create a flawless finish every time. Experiment with different shades and formulas to find what works best for your skin tone and type, and don’t be afraid to play around with different techniques to achieve your desired look.
Remember, makeup is meant to be fun and expressive, so don’t be afraid to get creative and make the contouring process your own. With a little practice and patience, you can achieve the perfect contour and feel confident and beautiful in your own skin.
