Contouring and highlighting have become two of the most popular makeup techniques in recent years. With the rise of social media and beauty influencers, more and more people are eager to master the art of sculpting their faces with makeup. However, with so many products and techniques available, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. That’s why I’ve put together this ultimate guide to contouring and highlighting, to help you achieve a flawless and sculpted look every time.
What is Contouring?
Contouring is a makeup technique that involves using darker shades to create shadows and define the natural contours of the face. By strategically placing darker shades in certain areas, you can create the illusion of a more sculpted, defined face shape. Contouring can help to slim the face, define the jawline, and enhance your features. It is important to choose a contour shade that is a few shades darker than your natural skin tone, as this will create a more realistic shadow effect.
How to Contour:
1. Choose the Right Products: To contour effectively, you will need a contour powder, cream, or stick that is a few shades darker than your natural skin tone. There are many different contour products available, so it’s important to find one that works best for your skin type and preferences. For beginners, powder products are often easier to work with as they can be blended more easily.
2. Map Out Your Face: Before applying any product, it’s important to map out your face and identify the areas where you want to contour. The most common areas to contour are the hollows of the cheeks, the temples, the jawline, and the sides of the nose. By placing contour product in these areas, you can create a more sculpted and defined look.
3. Apply the Contour Product: Using a contour brush or makeup sponge, apply the contour product to the areas you have mapped out. Start by lightly applying the product and building up the intensity as needed. It’s important to blend the product seamlessly into your skin to avoid any harsh lines.
4. Blend, Blend, Blend: Blending is the key to achieving a natural-looking contour. Use a clean brush or makeup sponge to blend the contour product into your skin, making sure to blend out any harsh lines or edges. The goal is to create a subtle shadow effect that enhances your natural features.
What is Highlighting?
Highlighting is the perfect complement to contouring, as it involves using lighter shades to bring dimension and luminosity to the face. By applying highlighter to certain areas, you can create a more youthful and radiant complexion. Highlighting can help to accentuate the high points of the face, such as the cheekbones, brow bone, and the bridge of the nose. It is important to choose a highlighter shade that complements your skin tone and has a shimmer or luminous finish.
How to Highlight:
1. Choose the Right Products: Like contouring, there are many different highlighter products available, including powders, creams, and liquid formulas. It’s important to choose a highlighter shade that complements your skin tone and has a finish that you prefer, whether it’s a subtle shimmer or a more intense glow.
2. Map Out Your Face: Just like with contouring, it’s important to identify the areas of your face where you want to highlight. The most common areas to highlight are the tops of the cheekbones, the brow bone, the bridge of the nose, the cupid’s bow, and the inner corners of the eyes. By applying highlighter to these areas, you can create a more lifted and radiant look.
3. Apply the Highlighter: Using a brush or makeup sponge, apply the highlighter to the areas you have mapped out. Start by lightly applying the product and building up the intensity as needed. It’s important to blend the highlighter seamlessly into your skin to create a natural-looking glow.
4. Set Your Makeup: Once you have finished contouring and highlighting, it’s important to set your makeup with a setting spray or powder. This will help to lock in your makeup and ensure that it lasts throughout the day.
In conclusion, mastering the art of contouring and highlighting can take some practice, but with the right products and techniques, you can achieve a flawless and sculpted look every time. Remember to choose products that work best for your skin type and preferences, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different shades and finishes. With a little practice and patience, you’ll be able to contour and highlight like a pro in no time. So go ahead, grab your makeup brushes and get ready to sculpt your way to a more defined and radiant complexion.
