Contouring and highlighting have become staple techniques in the beauty industry, with countless tutorials and products available to help achieve a flawless look. When done correctly, contouring and highlighting can enhance your features and create the illusion of a sculpted face. However, achieving a flawless contour and highlight can be intimidating for beginners. In this post, we will break down the steps to achieving a flawless contour and highlight, so you can confidently add this technique to your makeup routine.
First and foremost, it is important to choose the right products for contouring and highlighting. For contouring, opt for a matte product that is a few shades darker than your natural skin tone. This can be in the form of a cream or powder, depending on your preference. For highlighting, choose a product that is a few shades lighter than your skin tone and has a subtle shimmer or sheen to it.
Before you start contouring and highlighting, it is essential to prepare your skin properly. Start by applying your regular foundation and concealer as you normally would. This will create a smooth base for the contour and highlight products to adhere to. Set your base makeup with a translucent powder to prevent any excess shine.
To begin contouring, identify the areas of your face that you want to sculpt and define. These typically include the hollows of your cheeks, the sides of your nose, your jawline, and your forehead. Using a contour brush or a makeup sponge, apply the contour product to these areas using a light hand. Remember to blend the product thoroughly to avoid any harsh lines. It is crucial to start with a small amount of product and build it up gradually, as it is easier to add more than to remove excess product.
For highlighting, focus on the high points of your face that catch the light naturally. This includes the tops of your cheekbones, the bridge of your nose, your brow bone, and the cupid’s bow of your lips. Using a highlight brush or your fingertips, gently apply the highlight product to these areas. Again, blend the product well to achieve a seamless finish. Be mindful not to apply too much highlighter, as it can appear overly shiny and unnatural.
To further refine your contour and highlight, consider using a setting spray to help meld the products into your skin. This will also help your makeup last longer throughout the day. Alternatively, you can use a damp makeup sponge to gently press the products into your skin, ensuring a flawless and skin-like finish.
In addition to choosing the right products and techniques, it is important to consider your face shape when contouring and highlighting. Different face shapes require different methods to achieve the desired effect. For example, those with a round face may want to contour along the jawline and temples to create the illusion of a more defined and angular face. Conversely, those with a square face may want to focus on softening the angles of their face with strategic contouring and highlighting.
Practice makes perfect when it comes to contouring and highlighting. Experiment with different products, tools, and techniques to find what works best for you. Remember that less is more, and it is always easier to add more product than to remove excess. Be patient with yourself and have fun exploring different looks with contouring and highlighting.
In conclusion, achieving a flawless contour and highlight is a skill that can be learned with practice and patience. By choosing the right products, preparing your skin properly, and considering your face shape, you can create a sculpted and radiant complexion. Remember to blend well, build up the product gradually, and have fun with the process. With these tips in mind, you can confidently add contouring and highlighting to your makeup routine and enhance your natural beauty.
