How to Contour and Highlight Like a Pro
Contouring and highlighting have quickly become must-have skills in every makeup enthusiast’s repertoire. These transformative techniques can enhance your natural features, creating a beautifully sculpted and radiant complexion. However, with the abundance of products and varying face shapes, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure of where to start. In this blog post, we will guide you through the process, from understanding your face shape to choosing the right products, prepping your skin, and mastering contouring and highlighting techniques for different features. Get ready to perfect your makeup game with our expert tips and tricks.
Contents
Understanding your face shape
When it comes to applying makeup, one of the most important factors to consider is your face shape. Each face shape requires different techniques to enhance its natural features and create a balanced look. By understanding your face shape, you can make informed decisions about which makeup styles, contouring, and highlighting techniques will complement your unique features.
Listed below are the six main face shapes and some common features associated with each shape:
| Face Shape | Features |
|---|---|
| Oval | Forehead is slightly wider than the chin, with prominent cheekbones |
| Round | Soft, full cheeks and a rounded chin |
| Square | Straight sides and a squared jawline |
| Heart | Wide forehead and high cheekbones, with a narrow chin |
| Oblong | Long and narrow face shape, with a pointy chin |
| Diamond | Angular features with a narrow forehead and jawline, and wide cheekbones |
Understanding your face shape is crucial because it can help you determine which areas to contour and highlight to create a more balanced and symmetrical appearance. For example, if you have a round face shape, you may want to contour the sides of your face to create the illusion of more defined cheekbones and a slimmer face. Conversely, if you have a square face shape, you may want to soften the angles by contouring the jawline and temples.
By knowing your face shape and the features that come with it, you can choose the right makeup techniques to emphasize your natural beauty and feel more confident in your appearance. Remember, everyone’s face is unique, and there are no strict rules, but understanding the basics of face shapes can serve as a helpful starting point for your makeup journey.
Choosing the right contour and highlight products
When it comes to contouring and highlighting, one of the most crucial steps is choosing the right products. With so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to make the perfect selection. However, understanding your skin tone and face shape can greatly help in picking the right contour and highlight products that will enhance your features and give you a flawless finish.
First and foremost, it is important to determine your face shape. This will help you understand which areas of your face need contouring for a more balanced look. There are several face shapes including round, square, oval, heart, diamond, and triangle. Each shape requires specific contouring techniques and products to achieve the desired effect.
Once you have identified your face shape, it’s time to choose the right contour product. Contouring products are typically darker in shade than your natural skin tone. For a more natural look, opt for a contour shade that is no more than two shades darker than your skin tone. Cream or powder contour products can be used depending on personal preference and skin type. Cream products are great for dry or mature skin, while powder products work well for oily or combination skin.
In addition to contouring, highlighting also plays a crucial role in achieving a sculpted and radiant look. Highlighting products are designed to bring light to the high points of your face and create a luminous glow. Just like contour products, highlighters are available in cream, powder, and liquid formulations. Choose a highlighter shade that complements your skin tone. Those with fair skin can opt for champagne or pink-toned highlighters, while those with medium to deep skin tones can go for golden or bronze shades.
Lastly, it is important to consider the undertones of your skin when selecting contour and highlight products. If you have cool undertones, look for contour and highlight shades with a hint of gray or taupe. For warm undertones, opt for shades with a golden or bronze undertone. Neutral undertones can experiment with a variety of shades.
- Understanding your face shape is the first step in choosing the right contour and highlight products.
- Consider your skin tone and undertones when selecting contour and highlight shades.
- Choose a contour shade that is no more than two shades darker than your natural skin tone.
- Cream and powder products are available for contouring and highlighting, choose based on your skin type.
- Select a highlighter shade that complements your skin tone for a luminous glow.
| Face Shape | Contour Technique | Highlight Technique |
|---|---|---|
| Round | Contour along the hairline and jawline to create angles. Apply highlight on the center of the forehead and the high points of the cheeks. | Apply highlight on the high points of the cheeks and the center of the forehead to create a lifted effect. |
| Square | Contour the temples, jawline, and sides of the face to soften the angles. Apply highlight on the center of the forehead and the high points of the cheeks. | Apply highlight on the high points of the cheeks to add dimension to the face. |
| Oval | Contour the hollows of the cheeks and the sides of the forehead to add definition. Apply highlight on the high points of the cheeks and the center of the forehead. | Apply highlight on the high points of the cheeks and the center of the forehead for a radiant glow. |
| Heart | Contour the temples and the sides of the forehead to balance out the width of the forehead. Apply highlight on the high points of the cheeks and the center of the forehead. | Apply highlight on the high points of the cheeks and the center of the forehead for a luminous finish. |
| Diamond | Contour along the hairline and jawline to soften the angles. Apply highlight on the high points of the cheeks and the center of the forehead. | Apply highlight on the high points of the cheeks and the center of the forehead to enhance the facial structure. |
| Triangle | Contour the temples and the sides of the forehead to balance out the width of the forehead. Apply highlight on the high points of the cheeks and the center of the forehead. | Apply highlight on the high points of the cheeks and the center of the forehead for an illuminated look. |
Prepping your skin for flawless application
Before diving into the world of makeup application, it is crucial to establish a solid foundation for a flawless finish. Prepping your skin beforehand not only enhances the longevity of your makeup but also ensures that it blends seamlessly and looks natural. Your skin type plays a significant role in determining the right prepping routine for you. Let’s delve into the essential steps to achieve a perfectly prepped canvas for your makeup.
Cleansing:
The first step in prepping your skin involves thoroughly cleansing it to remove any dirt, oil, or impurities. Cleansing helps to create a clean slate for your makeup, allowing it to adhere better and last longer. Depending on your skin type, opt for a gentle cleanser that addresses your specific concerns. Those with dry or sensitive skin may prefer a creamy or hydrating cleanser, while individuals with oily skin may benefit from a gel or foam cleanser to control excess oil.
Exfoliating:
Say goodbye to dull and uneven skin by incorporating exfoliation into your prepping routine. Exfoliating helps to slough off dead skin cells, promoting a smoother and more radiant complexion. Choose a gentle scrub or exfoliating toner that suits your skin type. Avoid harsh scrubbing motions as it can damage the skin. Instead, gently massage the exfoliator in circular motions and rinse it off with lukewarm water.
Moisturizing:
Hydration is key to achieving a flawlessly prepped canvas. Regardless of your skin type, moisturizing plays an essential role in maintaining skin health and preventing dryness. Look for a moisturizer that is lightweight, non-comedogenic, and suits your skin’s needs. Apply it evenly all over your face, giving extra attention to any dry patches. Moisturizing provides a smooth base for flawless makeup application.
Sun Protection:
Shielding your skin from the harmful effects of the sun is a crucial step in prepping your skin. The sun’s rays can damage your skin and lead to premature aging, pigmentation, and even skin cancer. Applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an appropriate SPF not only protects your skin but also acts as a barrier between your skin and the makeup products. Ensure that you generously apply sunscreen to all exposed areas, including your face, neck, and ears.
Priming:
The final step in prepping your skin is using a primer. Primers not only help to create a smooth surface for makeup application but also extend the wear time of your products. Choose a primer that suits your skin type and concerns, such as blurring pores or controlling oil. Gently massage a small amount of primer onto your skin, focusing on areas where you want to minimize imperfections or enhance the longevity of your makeup.
Summary:
Prepping your skin is the foundation for achieving a flawless makeup application. By following the essential steps of cleansing, exfoliating, moisturizing, protecting your skin from the sun, and using a primer, you can create a perfectly prepped canvas. Remember, each step should cater to your specific skin type and concerns, ensuring that your makeup adheres better and lasts longer. So, take the time to prep your skin, and you’ll be amazed at the difference it makes in achieving a truly flawless finish.
Contouring and highlighting techniques for different features
When it comes to makeup, contouring and highlighting are essential techniques to enhance our facial features and create a beautifully sculpted look. However, each person has different facial features that require specific techniques to achieve the desired effect. In this blog post, we will explore the various contouring and highlighting techniques for different features, helping you understand how to bring out the best in your face shape.
Let’s begin with the nose. If you have a wide nose and wish to make it appear narrower, applying a contour shade along the sides of the bridge of your nose can create the illusion of a slimmer nose. Blend the contour shade well to avoid any harsh lines. To highlight, apply a lighter shade down the center of your nose. This will draw attention to the middle of your face and give the illusion of a more slender nose.
Next, let’s discuss contouring and highlighting the cheekbones. To sculpt and define your cheekbones, apply a contour shade just below your cheekbones and blend upwards towards your temple. This will create a shadow effect, making your cheekbones appear more prominent. For highlighting, use a shimmery, lighter shade on the highest points of your cheekbones. This will add a luminous glow to your face and accentuate your bone structure.
When it comes to forehead contouring and highlighting, the goal is often to create balance. If you have a larger forehead that you would like to minimize, apply a contour shade along your hairline and blend well. This will create the illusion of a smaller forehead. To bring forward areas that you want to emphasize, such as the center of your forehead, use a lighter shade to highlight.
Lastly, let’s discuss contouring and highlighting techniques for the jawline. If you have a round face shape and wish to create more definition along your jawline, apply a contour shade along the jawline, starting from the ears and blending downwards towards the chin. This will help create the appearance of a more chiseled jawline. To brighten the area, use a highlighting shade on the chin, which will draw attention to the center of your face and give the illusion of a more defined jawline.
In conclusion, contouring and highlighting techniques can vary depending on the features you want to enhance or minimize. By understanding your face shape and using the appropriate techniques, you can achieve a beautifully sculpted look that accentuates your unique features. Remember to blend well and choose shades that complement your skin tone for a natural and professional finish.
Blending and setting for a professional finish
When it comes to achieving a flawless makeup look, blending and setting play a crucial role in giving you that professional finish. Whether you’re a makeup enthusiast or a beginner, knowing the right techniques for blending and setting can make all the difference in the outcome of your makeup application. In this blog post, we’ll explore the importance of blending, the key steps to achieve a seamless blend, and the importance of setting your makeup for a long-lasting and polished look.
First and foremost, let’s understand why blending is essential in makeup application. Blending helps to create a seamless transition between different shades, ensuring that there are no harsh lines or uneven patches on your face. When done correctly, blending can make your makeup look more natural and polished. To achieve a flawless blend, start by using a blending brush or a damp makeup sponge depending on your preference and the products you’re using.
Now that we’ve emphasized the significance of blending, let’s dive into the key steps for achieving a professional finish. Begin by applying your foundation or base makeup evenly all over your face. Next, reach for your concealer and use it to hide any blemishes or dark circles. Remember, when blending your concealer, gently dab the product with your fingertip or a small brush to ensure it seamlessly merges with your foundation.
Another essential step in achieving a professional finish is setting your makeup. Setting your makeup helps to lock everything in place, ensuring that it stays intact throughout the day. To do this, you can use a loose or pressed powder to set your foundation and concealer. Apply the powder with a fluffy brush, focusing on areas that tend to get oily, such as the T-zone. Not only does setting your makeup prevent it from transferring or smudging, but it also helps to control shine and give your skin a matte finish.
To summarize, blending and setting are two fundamental techniques that should not be overlooked in your makeup routine. Blending ensures a seamless transition between different shades, while setting prolongs the longevity of your makeup and gives it a polished look. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different brushes, sponges, and powders to find the ones that work best for you. With practice and the right techniques, you’ll be able to achieve a professional finish that will leave you feeling confident and ready to take on the day!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the importance of understanding your face shape when it comes to contouring and highlighting?
Understanding your face shape is important because it helps you determine the areas you need to contour and highlight to enhance your features.
What are some tips for choosing the right contour and highlight products?
It’s important to choose contour and highlight products that are suitable for your skin tone and texture. Opt for matte contour shades and shimmery highlighters that complement your complexion.
How can you properly prep your skin for flawless contour and highlight application?
Prepping your skin involves cleansing, moisturizing, and using a primer to create an even canvas. This helps the contour and highlight products blend seamlessly.
What are some techniques for contouring and highlighting different features?
For a prominent nose, contour along the sides. To slim down a round face, contour the hollows of your cheeks. To highlight your cheekbones, apply highlighter on the highest points.
How can you achieve a professional finish with contouring and highlighting?
Blending is key. Use a sponge or brush to seamlessly blend the contour and highlight products for a natural-looking finish. Set the makeup with a powder to ensure longevity.
What are some important tools and brushes for contouring and highlighting?
Some essential tools include a contour brush, fan brush for highlighter, beauty blender sponge, and fluffy blending brushes for seamless application.
What are some common contouring and highlighting mistakes to avoid?
Avoid using shades that are too dark or too light for your skin tone. Blending is crucial to avoid harsh lines. Also, be mindful of the amount of product you use to prevent a heavy or cakey look.