Contouring and highlighting are two makeup techniques that can transform your face, creating definition and enhancing your natural features. These techniques have become increasingly popular in the world of beauty, with celebrities and makeup artists alike incorporating them into their daily routines.
If you’re looking to take your makeup game to the next level, mastering the art of contouring and highlighting is essential. In this ultimate guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about these two techniques, from the basics of application to product recommendations and tips for achieving a flawless finish.
What is Contouring?
Contouring is a makeup technique that involves using a darker shade to create shadows on the face, primarily to define the bone structure and enhance certain features. When done correctly, contouring can create the illusion of more defined cheekbones, a slimmer nose, and a more sculpted jawline.
There are different types of contouring products available, including cream, powder, and stick formulations. Cream contours are ideal for those with dry skin, as they provide a more natural-looking finish. Powders are great for beginners or those with oily skin, as they are easy to blend and tend to last longer. Stick contours are perfect for on-the-go touch-ups and are easy to apply directly to the face.
How to Contour:
1. Start by choosing a contour shade that is two shades darker than your skin tone.
2. Using a contour brush or makeup sponge, apply the product to the areas you want to define, such as the hollows of your cheeks, temples, and jawline.
3. Blend the product upwards and outwards using circular motions to ensure a seamless finish.
4. Remember to blend well, as harsh lines can look unnatural and unflattering.
5. Finish by applying a highlighter to the high points of your face, such as the tops of your cheekbones, the bridge of your nose, and your brow bone.
Product Recommendations:
– Fenty Beauty Match Stix Matte Skinstick in shade ‘Amber’
– Anastasia Beverly Hills Contour Kit
– Kat Von D Shade + Light Contour Palette
What is Highlighting?
Highlighting is the counterpart to contouring, as it involves using a lighter shade to accentuate the high points of the face and create a luminous, radiant finish. Highlighter can be applied to areas where light naturally hits the face, such as the cheekbones, brow bones, and the inner corners of the eyes.
There are different types of highlighter formulations available, including powder, cream, and liquid. Powder highlighters are easy to apply and blend, making them perfect for beginners. Cream highlighters provide a more dewy finish and are great for achieving a natural, radiant glow. Liquid highlighters are ideal for those with dry skin, as they can be mixed with foundation for a luminous finish.
How to Highlight:
1. Choose a highlighter shade that complements your skin tone, whether you prefer a champagne, gold, or rose gold hue.
2. Using a highlighter brush or makeup sponge, apply the product to the high points of your face, blending well for a seamless finish.
3. Remember to start with a small amount of product and build up the intensity as needed.
4. For a more intense glow, wet your brush with setting spray before applying the highlighter.
5. Finish by setting your makeup with a setting spray to lock in your look and ensure longevity.
Product Recommendations:
– Becca Cosmetics Shimmering Skin Perfector Pressed Highlighter in shade ‘Champagne Pop’
– MAC Cosmetics Mineralize Skinfinish in shade ‘Soft & Gentle’
– Maybelline Master Chrome Metallic Highlighter in shade ‘Molten Gold’
Tips for Mastering Contouring and Highlighting:
1. Practice makes perfect: Contouring and highlighting can be intimidating at first, but with practice, you’ll become more comfortable with the techniques and be able to achieve flawless results.
2. Invest in the right tools: Quality makeup brushes and sponges are essential for achieving a seamless finish when contouring and highlighting.
3. Blend, blend, blend: Blending is key when it comes to achieving a natural-looking contour and highlight. Take your time to blend out any harsh lines for a flawless finish.
4. Tailor your technique to your face shape: Different face shapes require different contouring and highlighting techniques. Research the best techniques for your specific face shape to enhance your features.
5. Have fun with it: Makeup is all about creativity and self-expression, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different contouring and highlighting techniques to find what works best for you.
In conclusion, mastering the art of contouring and highlighting can take your makeup game to the next level, creating a sculpted, radiant finish that enhances your natural beauty. With the right products, techniques, and practice, you can achieve flawless results that will leave you feeling confident and camera-ready. So grab your contour brush and highlighter, and get ready to slay the makeup game like a pro!
