Contouring has been a go-to makeup technique among makeup artists for a long time. It is a kind of beauty technique that works by adding depth and dimension to your facial features and bone structure, thereby further enhancing any kind of makeup appearance.
The main results of contour makeup include sculpted cheekbones, a slimmer nose, and a more defined jawline. Sounds exciting? Learn more about what is contour makeup, the steps involved, and tips to master this technique.
What is Contour Makeup?
Contouring is a method of sculpting the face with makeup. It is the best beauty hack for creating shadows and highlights that improve natural bone structure.
The technique helps create the optical illusion of natural-looking shadows on the face, such as around the forehead, on the hollows of the cheeks, and along the jaw and nose sides.
The goal of contouring, thus, is to make your face more chiselled and sculpted, or in simpler terms, reshaped and resized.
Regardless of what part of the face you choose to contour, contouring adds instant life to create sculpted-looking Hollywood makeup in seconds.
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How to Contour Makeup Step by Step
Step one: Map out the contour
After you choose the right shade of contour, you also need to map out the areas where you will need to apply the contour. Refrain from overcontouring, and target the contour strokes to certain parts, like below the cheekbones, on the nose side, and below the chin.
Step two: blend out the contour
After applying, blend the contour well using a brush or blender with the base so as to achieve a naturally sculpted look on the face. To remove harsh and unnatural contour shades, continue blending the lines out some more. For lighting the contour, you can also apply dots of vitamin C concealer.
Contour Makeup for Different Skin Types
Here’s a detailed table on the use of contour in makeup based on different skin types, including recommended products, application tips, and finish.
| Skin Type | Recommended contour products | Application Tips | Finish Goal |
| Oily | Oil-free formulas, powder contour. | Apply mattifying primer first with a dense brush, set with translucent powder to control oil all day long. | Shine-free, matte finish. |
| Dry | Hydrating formulas, cream contour | For smooth blending, apply using a damp beauty sponge. | Hydrated, dewy look. |
| Sensitive | Fragrance-free cream contour, hypoallergenic. | Gently apply with clean brushes or sponges. | Natural, soft definition. |
| Acne-prone | Mineral contour or non-comedogenic powder. | Apply with clean brushes, and avoid too many product layerings. | Non-clogging, matte finish. |
| Normal | Powder or cream as per desired finish. | Thoroughly blend for a soft gradient. | Matte or dewy finish. |
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What is the Difference Between Contour and Highlight Makeup?
Contour and highlight makeup are used to create depth and dimension in makeup, but they do so in opposite ways. Contour uses darker shades to create shadows and define features, while highlight uses lighter shades to brighten and bring forward features.
Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
Contour:
Purpose: To create the illusion of shadows and define features, making them appear more pronounced or defined.
Color: Typically a shade darker than your foundation, often with cool undertones to mimic natural shadows.
Application: Applied to areas where shadows naturally fall, such as under the cheekbones, along the jawline, and on the sides of the nose.
Highlight:
Purpose: To add light and brighten features, making them appear more prominent or defined.
Color: Typically a shade lighter than your foundation, often with a shimmer or sheen to catch the light.
Application: Applied to the high points of the face, such as the cheekbones, brow bone, bridge of the nose, and cupid’s bow.
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Conclusion
Now that you know what is contour makeup and how to apply it step by step, it’s time to carve out your facial features just like a seasoned makeup artist. The success of contouring makeup depends on the proverb that practice makes perfect!. In other words, the trick is to use the contour properly based on experimenting, blending, and choosing the right formulas as per your skin type.
In the end, we can conclude that the method of counter face makeup is both exciting and empowering. But with the right products, techniques, and a certain amount of practice, it is easy to define and sculpt your features to perfection. This type of makeup routine provides endless possibilities for your self-expression and creativity.
FAQs
What is contour makeup for beginners?
The art of contour makeup for beginners includes applying darker shades for defining and sculpting facial features, thereby creating a more sculpted and natural appearance.
What is the use of contour in makeup?
The use of contour in makeup is to define and improve facial structure by creating the illusion of shadows and highlights, similar to the way light and shadow sculpt the face naturally.
What is contour used for makeup rules?
The main contour makeup rule is to opt for the right shade, map out your contour lines as per your face shape, through blending and initiating using a light hand. Always prioritize your skin type when you choose contour products.
Which type of contour is best, liquid or powder?
If you want a more natural and blended look and have normal to oily skin, liquid contour is your go-to choice. But if you have dry skin and want a more sculpted, matte appearance, powder contour should be the choice.
What type of contour shades are best for indian skin?
For fair to medium skin, taupes and beige contour shades, a little more golden shades for more tan complexions.
How long does contour powder last?
Contour powder usually lasts for about 3 years if stored properly, away from direct sunlight exposure and moisture.
Can I use concealer as contour?
Yes, you can apply a darker shade of concealer to areas where you want to create a shadow or define your face, just like you would apply a contour powder or cream.
What is the main purpose of contour use in makeup?
The main purpose of contouring in makeup is to create the illusion of shadows and highlights, for sculpting and improving facial features.
What is the correct order of contouring?
Contouring usually comes after applying foundation and concealer, before chiselling and sculpting with cream contour.
When should I apply contour on my face?
Contour should be applied on the face after foundation and concealer, but before setting powder. It helps create a sculpted look by adding dimension and definition to the face.
How do you do Contour MakeUp?
The process to do contour makeup includes opting for the right contour shade, mapping out contour lines as per your face shape and skin type, blending thoroughly, and starting with a light hand.