So you want to learn the art of contouring? Well hold onto your hat, because this is gonna be a wild ride. Contouring is basically using makeup and other cosmetics to shape and define facial features. Whether it’s just to enhance your natural look, create a dramatic effect for evening wear, or just have some fun with makeup, contouring is one of those things that can really take your beauty game up a notch. Here I’ll give you all the must-know dos and don’ts when it comes to contouring so you can be looking fabulous in no time!
The Dos of Contouring
So, you want to get that chiseled, Hollywood-esque look? You’ve come to the right spot! Believe it or not, contouring isn’t as intimidating as it may appear. In fact, once you master the basics, you’ll quickly discover that it’s an essential part of any beauty routine.
First and foremost, choose the right shade of contour. This can be a tricky feat, but don’t worry, there are lots of tools out there to help you find a color that works with your skin tone! When in doubt, go with a cooler hue—it tends to be more flattering and natural.
Once you have your contour shade picked out, it’s time to blend, blend, blend! Don’t be afraid to take your time, blending is key for achieving that seamless finish. For best results, use a beauty blender (or your fingertips!) to buff the product into your skin.
As the cherry on top, add a highlighter! This will really help bring out your features and make them pop – especially your cheekbones, brow bones, and cupid’s bow. Plus, it’s the perfect final touch for that extra bit of glamour.
The Don’ts of Contouring
Ahh contouring, the magical dance between light and dark makeup that’s pretty much essential to achieving your ideal face shape. You know what looks good, but do you know what NOT to do when it comes to contouring? Here are a few things you should steer clear of!
First off, never skimp on the primer! This stuff is key for getting your foundation to stick around all day. If you don’t prime, any contour work you’ve done will disappear by lunchtime. Prime, prime, prime!
The next thing to keep an eye out for is using too much contour. It can be tempting to go ham with the bronzer, but let me tell ya, nobody wants to look like they spent a week in a coal mine! A little goes a long way, so start small and build up if you need more.
Last on the list of no-nos: Don’t forget the blush! Blush adds warmth to the cheeks and helps balance out the whole look. Plus, it’s just plain cute! So whatever you do, don’t forget this step or you’ll end up looking a little washed out.
Now that you know the dos and don’ts of contouring, you’re ready to put your best face forward. Just remember to have fun, stay safe, and get creative – because who doesn’t love a little dose of makeup magic!
Conclusion
Contouring can be tricky, but with a few tips in mind, you’ll have it down to a science. There are dos and don’ts when it comes to bronzing, blushing and highlighting that you need to remember. Here’s the breakdown: Do choose the right shade of contour for your complexion, blend blend blend, and don’t forget the highlighter. Don’t skimp on priming—it’s key! Also, be careful not to use too much contour or forget to apply blush. By keeping these two lists in mind, you’ll be able to rock the perfectly sculpted look every time.
Makeup Contouring FAQ
What not to do with contour?
Don’t forget one of the cardinal rules of contouring: less is more! Going overboard can leave you looking like a clown, so always go easy with the application. Another thing to avoid is skipping blending; your contour won’t look natural if you don’t take the time to properly blend it in with the rest of your makeup. Another big no-no is neglecting to use the right shades; contouring can be tricky, so it’s important to find the right colors to match your skin tone. Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment with contour brushes; finding the right brush can make all the difference in getting the perfect contour.
What are the three contouring rules?
I’m gonna share with you the three rules of contouring I’ve learnt over my years as a beautician.
First of all, when it comes to contouring, don’t be afraid to use multiple shades of foundation. Be sure to choose ones with different undertones – warm, cool and neutral – as this will help you create the perfect chiseled look. Secondly, use a small fan brush for blended and natural contours. When the brush is very small, it will make the contour lines look subtle and natural. Lastly, don’t forget to blend, blend and blend some more! Contouring requires a lot of blending – it’s essential for a seamless look and also helps to avoid harsh lines. And there you have it – rock those contours with confidence!
How do I prepare my face for contouring?
Before starting the contouring process, it’s important to make sure your face is properly prepped. To start, I’d recommend cleansing your skin with a gentle cleanser to remove any dirt and oil that might be present on the face. After your skin is clean, use a hydrating moisturizer to keep it looking fresh and hydrated. This will help your makeup to go on smoothly and last a bit longer. Additionally, it’s also a good idea to apply a primer to your face. This will help your contouring look even more seamless and defined.
Next, I’d recommend using a damp beauty blender or brush to help apply your contour and highlight shades. This will give you a more natural look and make it easier to blend. For a longer-lasting contour, I would suggest using a contour stick or cream, as this will last longer than powder and help make sure your contour looks its best all day. Finally, don’t forget to set your look with a light dusting of translucent powder.