Contouring has become a popular makeup trend in recent years, with everyone from beauty influencers to celebrities touting its ability to enhance and define facial features. But for many people, the thought of contouring can be intimidating – it’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the different products and techniques involved. However, with the right tools and a little practice, anyone can learn how to contour like a pro.
In this step-by-step guide, we’ll break down the basics of contouring and provide you with all the tips and tricks you need to achieve a flawless contoured look.
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
Before you start contouring, it’s important to make sure you have all the right tools and products on hand. You’ll need a contour product (either a cream or powder), a blending brush, a highlighter, and a setting powder. It’s also helpful to have a makeup sponge or beauty blender on hand for blending.
Step 2: Choose the Right Shade
When it comes to choosing a contour shade, it’s important to pick a color that is slightly darker than your natural skin tone. This will help create the appearance of shadow and definition on your face. If you’re using a cream contour product, make sure it has a matte finish to avoid any unwanted shine.
Step 3: Map Out Your Contour
Before you start applying your contour product, take a moment to map out where you want to contour. This will help you achieve a more natural-looking result. Start by sucking in your cheeks to find the hollows of your cheeks, then apply your contour product in a diagonal line from your ear to the corner of your mouth. You can also contour your jawline, nose, and forehead if desired.
Step 4: Blend, Blend, Blend
Once you’ve applied your contour product, it’s time to blend it out to create a seamless finish. Use a blending brush or makeup sponge to gently buff out the product, making sure to blend it into your foundation seamlessly. The key to a successful contour is to blend well – you want your contour to look natural and not like a harsh line on your face.
Step 5: Highlight
After you’ve contoured your face, it’s time to highlight and add dimension. Choose a highlighter that is slightly lighter than your natural skin tone and apply it to the high points of your face – such as the tops of your cheekbones, the bridge of your nose, and your brow bone. This will help add brightness and lift to your face.
Step 6: Set Your Makeup
To ensure your contour lasts all day, make sure to set your makeup with a setting powder. This will help lock everything in place and prevent any smudging or fading throughout the day. Use a fluffy brush to lightly dust the powder over your face, focusing on areas where you applied your contour and highlight.
Step 7: Practice Makes Perfect
Contouring is a skill that takes practice to master, so don’t get discouraged if your first attempt isn’t perfect. Take the time to experiment with different products and techniques to find what works best for your face shape and skin tone. Watching tutorials and practicing regularly will help you improve your contouring skills over time.
Contouring is a fun and creative way to enhance your natural features and create a more sculpted look. With the right tools and techniques, anyone can learn how to contour like a pro. So grab your contour products and get practicing! With a little time and patience, you’ll be contouring like a pro in no time.
