Contouring. The word itself can sound intimidating, conjuring images of complicated makeup tutorials and Instagram-perfect faces. But the truth is, contouring doesn't have to be a daunting task! With a few easy-to-implement steps and the right techniques, you can master this makeup skill and achieve a naturally sculpted look. Let's dive in!
Understanding Your Face Shape: The Foundation of Contouring
Before you even pick up your contour palette, understanding your face shape is crucial. Different shapes require different contouring techniques to highlight your best features and minimize those you want to soften. Knowing this will significantly impact the placement of your contour.
Common Face Shapes and Contouring Strategies:
-
Round Face: Contour the temples, sides of the forehead, and along the jawline to create a more defined, less round appearance. Highlight the center of the forehead, bridge of the nose, and chin.
-
Oval Face: This face shape is considered ideal for contouring as it's already well-proportioned. You can subtly contour the temples and jawline for a more defined look, focusing more on highlighting.
-
Square Face: Soften the harsh angles by contouring the jawline and forehead corners. Highlight the center of the forehead and chin to balance the features.
-
Heart-Shaped Face: Contour the forehead along the hairline and the jawline to soften the pointed chin. Highlight the center of the forehead and chin to add balance.
-
Long Face: Contour the forehead and chin to shorten the appearance of the face. Highlight the cheekbones to add width.
Gathering Your Contouring Arsenal: The Essential Tools
You don't need a mountain of products to achieve a beautiful contour. A few key items are all you need to get started:
-
Contour Palette: Choose shades that are a few shades darker than your natural skin tone. Cream or powder contours both work well; experiment to find your preference.
-
Highlighter: A shade or two lighter than your skin tone will help to bring out the high points of your face, balancing the contour.
-
Blending Brush: A fluffy brush is essential for seamlessly blending the contour and highlighter, preventing harsh lines. Consider a smaller brush for precision around the nose and jawline.
-
Makeup Sponge (Optional): This can be helpful for blending cream contour seamlessly.
Step-by-Step Contouring Guide: From Beginner to Pro
Now for the fun part! Let's break down the contouring process into simple, manageable steps.
Step 1: Prep Your Skin
Start with a clean, moisturized face. This ensures your makeup applies evenly and prevents a cakey look. A primer can also be beneficial for creating a smooth base.
Step 2: Apply Foundation (Optional)
While not strictly necessary, foundation can provide an even base for your contour and make blending easier.
Step 3: Contour Strategically
Apply your contour shade to the areas you identified earlier based on your face shape. Remember less is more; you can always add more, but it's harder to remove excess product. Common areas include:
-
Underneath the cheekbones: Suck in your cheeks to find the hollows.
-
Along the hairline: To soften a wide forehead or create a smaller-appearing face.
-
Sides of the nose: To create a slimmer-looking nose.
-
Jawline: To define the jaw and create a more sculpted look.
Step 4: Highlight Your Best Features
Apply your highlighter to the high points of your face:
-
Bridge of the nose: Adds a subtle glow and helps to lift the face.
-
Center of the forehead: Adds brightness and opens up the eyes.
-
Cupid's bow: Adds volume and shape to the lips.
-
Cheekbones: Adds radiance and definition.
Step 5: Blend, Blend, Blend!
This is the most crucial step! Use your blending brush to soften the edges of your contour and highlighter, ensuring there are no harsh lines. Blend in circular motions, gradually building up the intensity as needed.
Step 6: Set Your Makeup (Optional)
For longer-lasting wear, set your contour and highlighter with a setting powder or spray.
Mastering the Art of Contouring: Practice Makes Perfect!
Like any makeup technique, mastering contouring takes practice. Don't be discouraged if your first attempt isn't perfect. Keep experimenting, watch tutorials, and find what works best for your face shape and preferences. Soon enough, you'll be contouring like a pro! Remember, the goal is to enhance your natural features, not to create a mask. Embrace the subtle artistry of sculpting your face with light and shadow.
