Are you looking for a way to subtly enhance your facial features and create the ideal look for yourself? Look no further than the art of contouring – one of the latest beauty trends that allows you to create dazzling and natural looking results by sculpting your features. In this article, we’ll take a look at the tricks and tips of this revolutionary makeup art, so that you can use it to create the perfect look for you.
1. What is Contouring?
Contouring is a popular makeup technique that helps define facial features and create an illusion of balance and depth. It’s essentially a two-step process of applying a light and a darker shade of makeup to specific areas of the face. The lighter shades are used to bring features forward and the darker shades are used to sculpt and add depth.
When To Use Contouring
- For everyday look or special occasions, such as weddings or night outs
- Ideal if you want to alter or emphasize your natural facial structure
- You can opt to make your face appear more slender, lifted, more prominent and more symmetrical
How To Contour As contouring is very customizable, it’s best to use a product that’s a shade or two darker than your natural skin-tone. Here are the simpliest techniques:
- Apply a lighter shade on the center of the forehead, down the middle of nose, the tops of the cheeks and your chin.
- Apply the darker hue along your hairline, underneath your cheekbones, and on the sides of your nose and forehead.
- Blend it out until everything looks seamless, and voila! You’re done.
Contouring is one of the most effective ways to bring out your best features. With the right products and steps, it’s easy to master the art of contouring. Still having doubt? Try it out on yourself and you’ll be amazed by the effect. The possibilities are endless!
2. Sculpting Your Features: The Basics of Contouring
Contouring is a makeup artist’s secret weapon for sculpting almost any face shape. Use lighter colors to enhance features that you want to be seen, and darker colors to minimize features and create shadows. Here are the basics of how to contour your features:
- Choose two shades of foundation for the contouring process. Pick shades that are slightly darker and lighter than your natural skin color. Make sure the colors blend together seamlessly!
- Apply the lighter shade first. Brush the color underneath your eye area and down the bridge of your nose. Also apply it to the tops of your cheekbones.
- Apply the darker shade second. Brush the color on your temples, along your jawline, the hollows of your cheeks, and down the sides of your nose.
Once you’ve applied both colors, blend the shades together to make the lines less noticeable and create a seamless look. You can also use a contour brush or a makeup sponge to help blend the edges. In addition to contouring, you’ll also want to apply a highlighter to bring out your features even more. Choose a shade that’s a few shades lighter than your skin tone, apply it to the area above your cheekbones, and blend with your fingertips until your contour looks natural.
With a little practice, contouring can help you define and enhance your favorite features. You’ll look like you just stepped off the runway in no time!
3. Preparing your Face for Contouring
Contouring is a great way to add structure and dimension to your face, but first you need to prepare your skin to take advantage of it. Here are three steps to take before you apply contour makeup:
- Cleanse your face properly: This helps to ensure your canvas is clean and all ready for application. Use a mild cleanser and moisturizer after and gently pat your skin dry.
- Apply primer: Primers help set the skin and provide a smooth base for your makeup and prevent oxidation. Be sure to select the correct primer for your skin type.
- Select your shades: It’s important to choose the right contour color for your skin tone – a shade or two deeper than your natural complexion and one that blends into your skin easily.
Pro tip: When shopping for contour products, look for formulas that promote blending as opposed to opaque coverage- you want to look naturally chiseled, not like you’re wearing a mask.
Now your skin is all ready and contours are waiting to be carved! With these steps, you’ll have glowing skin and naturally structured features in no time.
4. Applying Contour and Highlight Makeup
Once you’ve got the hang of applying foundation and setting it with powder, you’re ready to add depth to your face with contouring and highlights. Not sure where to start? Here’s how you can contour and highlight like a pro!
- Start with the right makeup tools: A highlight brush and a contour brush, a highlighter and a matte powder or doing in a shade or two darker than your skin tone.
- Choose the best places to highlight and contour: To slim a round face, start by highlighting the centre of your forehead, down the bridge of your nose, and the high points of your cheeks. To contour, apply the matte shadow to the hollows of your cheeks and along your temples and jawline.
Don’t forget to blend, blend, blend: For a flawless look, you want to make sure there are no harsh lines. Use a shadowy brush to blend into the contour powder, and a sparkly brush to blend the highlight. Make sure to blend down your neck too. To complete your face, add a touch of blush and some bronzer.
Pro Tip: To brighten up a dull complexion, you can also use a shimmery highlighter on the inner corners of your eyes, and the cupids bow of your lips. This will accentuate your features and give you that radiant, glowing look.
5. Finishing Touches for a Natural Look
Whether you’re styling a casual party or event, it’s easy to create a natural and aesthetic-friendly look with just a few simple touches. Here are five ideas to get you started.
- Choose minimal furniture: Look for pieces with curves and light wood accents to give the room an airy feel and craft a laid-back atmosphere.
- Mix-and-match colors: Incorporate pale neutrals with earthy tones for a look that is timeless and casual.
- Layer textiles: From plain linen to textured wools, layering different fabrics is one way to bring dimension and character to a room.
- Bring the outdoors in: Fill your space with potted plants, wooden accents, and nature-inspired decorations for an earthy look.
- Incorporate candles: Whether it’s beeswax or soy, candles are the ultimate way to bring warmth and ambiance to any event.
Highlight guests with gorgeous living centerpieces and unique vessels filled with dried flowers, succulents, and grasses. Pick pieces that are eye-catching yet natural, and a room will come alive!
Creating a natural look with just a few simple touches? No problem! With these ideas, you’ll have a warm and inviting atmosphere in no time.
By embracing the art of contouring and highlighting, you can redefine your facial features and achieve symmetry to look and feel your best. A few simple strokes of your favorite contour palette can enhance your natural features like a master sculptor. Embrace your inner artist and let contour your way to a whole new you.
