When it comes to makeup, if you ever wondered how makeup artists create beautifully sculpted cheekbones, this is because of one technique: contour. Nowadays it has become a staple in everyday beauty, despite the fact that it was once reserved for professional makeup artists and runway models. Thanks to its ability to enhance facial features and add dimension.
Interestingly, you don’t need professional training to master contouring. The reason is, with the right products, placement, and blending techniques, anyone can master contouring. Therefore, this guide covers everything you need to know about contouring.
What Is Contour?
For your information, contouring is a makeup technique that uses deeper shades to create shadows. This also defines the natural structure of the face. Therefore, you can enhance your cheekbones, slim the appearance of the nose, define jawline, and add overall dimension, by strategically applying contour products to specific facial areas.
It is designed to mimic natural shadows, unlike bronzer that adds warmth to the skin. This subtle shading effect helps sculpt and shape the face while maintaining a natural appearance.
How Do You Apply Contour for Beginners?
Fortunately, once you understand the basics, contouring will be much simpler. Here the steps:
Step 1: Choose the Right Contour Shade
Select a product that is one to two shades darker than your natural skin tone. Cool or neutral undertones typically create the most natural shadow effect.
Step 2: Identify Key Contour Areas
Apply contour to areas where natural shadows typically occur:
- Under the cheekbones.
- Along the jawline.
- Around the perimeter of the forehead.
- Along the sides of the nose (optional).
Step 3: Blend Thoroughly
Blending is the most important step in achieving a natural-looking makeup. Use a brush, sponge, or fingertips to soften any harsh lines.
Step 4: Add Highlight and Blush
Balance your contour with blush and highlighter to create a fresh, radiant finish. For beginners, subtle application often produces the most flattering results.
Here is the tutorial video on how to apply face contour by @sofeashra:
What Are the Contouring Mistakes to Avoid?
Some people might ask about what are contouring mistakes to avoid. Therefore, understanding common errors can help create a more natural and flattering result. Here are contouring mistakes to avoid:
- Using the wrong shade: Contours that are too warm or too dark can appear unnatural and muddy.
- Applying too much product: Heavy contour can overwhelm the face and create harsh lines.
- Skipping blending: Unblended contour is one of the most noticeable makeup mistakes. Soft transitions create the most professional finish.
- Incorrect placement: Applying contour too low on the cheeks can drag facial features downward rather than lifting them.
- Ignoring your face shape: different face shapes may require slightly different placement for the most flattering result.
Avoiding these mistakes can dramatically improve your overall makeup look.
Mastering contour doesn’t need a professional makeup skill. Since the right techniques and a little practice can help you master it. Therefore, by learning how to apply contour as a beginner, and understanding what are the mistakes to avoid, you can create a beautifully sculpted and natural looking result with confidence.
Moreover, you can also discover plenty of high quality and original contouring set for beauty at ZALORA Beauty to shop online. So what are you waiting for? Complete your makeup kit now and glow like a pro!
Source: ZALORA
Source: ZALORA
Source: ZALORA