Contouring has become a staple in the world of makeup, a game changer that can define your features, creating the illusion of higher cheekbones and slimmer nose. It’s an art, and like any form of art, it requires the right tools, technique, and a bit of practice. This step-by-step guide is designed to help beginners navigate the world of contouring, breaking down the process into simple, easy-to-follow steps. Whether you’re a makeup enthusiast or a novice just starting out, this guide will give you the confidence to contour like a pro. Let’s dive in!
Step 1: Prep Your Skin
Before diving into the world of contouring, it’s important to prep your skin properly. Start by cleansing your face with a gentle cleanser and moisturizing it with a lightweight, non-greasy moisturizer. This will ensure that your skin is clean and hydrated, providing a smooth base for makeup application. Then, apply a primer to help your makeup last longer and fill in any pores or fine lines. Once your skin is prepped, you’re ready for the next step.
Step 2: Choose Your Contour Products
The next step is to choose the right contour products for your skin tone and type. Contouring products come in various forms such as powders, creams, and sticks. Powders are ideal for beginners as they are easy to blend and give a subtle, natural look. Creams and sticks, on the other hand, provide more intense definition but require more practice to master. It’s important to choose a contour shade that is 1-2 shades darker than your skin tone for a natural look.
Step 3: Map Out Your Face
Before applying any product, it’s essential to understand your face shape and know which areas you want to contour and highlight. A general rule of thumb is to contour the areas you want to appear smaller or more defined, while highlighting the areas you want to bring forward or add dimension to. For example, if you have a round face, contouring along the jawline and under the cheekbones can create a more defined look.
Step 4: Contour Your Cheeks
To contour your cheeks, suck in your cheeks to find the hollows. Then, using an angled brush or a contour stick, apply the product along the hollows of your cheeks towards your hairline. Make sure to blend it out well for a natural look. You can also contour your temples and jawline for a more defined face shape.
Step 5: Highlight Your Features
Highlighting is just as important as contouring, as it adds dimension and glow to the face. Apply a highlighting shade on the high points of your face, including the top of your cheekbones, bridge of your nose, cupid’s bow, and brow bone. For a natural look, opt for a shade that is 1-2 shades lighter than your skin tone.
Step 6: Blend, Blend, Blend
The key to flawless contouring is blending. Use a damp beauty sponge or a fluffy brush to blend out any harsh lines or edges. This will create a seamless transition between the contour and highlight, giving you a natural, sculpted look.
Step 7: Set Your Contour
To ensure your contour lasts all day, set it with a powder or spray. You can use a matte bronzer to set the contour and a shimmery powder to set the highlight. Alternatively, you can use a setting spray for an extra boost of longevity.
Step 8: Practice Makes Perfect
Contouring takes practice, so don’t be discouraged if your first few attempts don’t turn out as expected. Experiment with different products and techniques to find what works best for you. With time and practice, you’ll become a contouring pro in no time!
Additional Tips:
- When choosing a contour shade, avoid shades that are too warm or orange-toned, as they can look unnatural on the skin.
- Always start with a light hand and build up the intensity gradually. It’s easier to add more product than to blend out excess product.
- Don’t forget to blend your contour and highlight into your hairline and neck for a seamless finish.
- You can also use bronzer to contour your nose for a more defined look.
- Remember, there is no right or wrong way to contour. It’s all about finding what works best for you and your face shape.
Now that you have the basic steps and tips down, it’s time to unleash your inner makeup artist and start contouring like a pro! Keep in mind that consistent practice leads to perfection. Therefore, embrace experimentation and enjoy the process.. With time and patience, you’ll master the art of contouring and achieve a flawless, sculpted look every time. Happy contouring! And remember, always clean your brushes regularly for optimum application results.
