Contouring and highlighting have become huge trends in the makeup world, and for good reason. When done correctly, these techniques can help define your facial features, create the illusion of higher cheekbones, a slimmer nose, and a more sculpted jawline. Many celebrities and makeup artists swear by contouring and highlighting to achieve a flawless, camera-ready look.
If you’re new to the world of contouring and highlighting, it can seem a bit intimidating at first. There are countless products and techniques out there, and it can be overwhelming to know where to start. That’s why I’ve put together this step-by-step guide to help you master the art of contouring and highlighting.
Step 1: Prep your skin
Before you start contouring and highlighting, it’s important to prep your skin. Start by cleansing your face and applying your usual skincare products, such as moisturizer and primer. Make sure your skin is clean and hydrated before you begin applying makeup.
Step 2: Choose the right products
There are a variety of contouring and highlighting products on the market, including creams, powders, and sticks. When choosing products, consider your skin type and personal preference. Cream products are great for dry skin, while powder products work well on oily skin. Sticks are convenient for on-the-go touch-ups.
For contouring, choose a product that is a few shades darker than your natural skin tone. For highlighting, choose a product that is a few shades lighter. You can use matte or shimmer products, depending on the look you’re going for.
Step 3: Find your face shape
Before you start contouring and highlighting, it’s important to identify your face shape. Different face shapes require different techniques to achieve the best results. Some common face shapes include oval, round, square, heart, and diamond.
Once you know your face shape, you can tailor your contouring and highlighting techniques to enhance your features and create a more balanced look.
Step 4: Start with contouring
To contour your face, start by applying the darker product along the natural shadows of your face. These areas typically include the hollows of your cheeks, the sides of your nose, and along your jawline. Use a small, angled brush or sponge to blend the product into your skin, making sure to blend well to avoid any harsh lines.
For a natural look, start with a light hand and build up the product as needed. Remember, less is more when it comes to contouring. You can always add more product, but it’s harder to take it away once it’s applied.
Step 5: Highlight strategically
After contouring, it’s time to highlight the high points of your face to add dimension and brightness. Use the lighter product on areas that naturally catch the light, such as the tops of your cheekbones, the bridge of your nose, your brow bone, and your Cupid’s bow. Apply the product with a small brush or your fingers, and blend it out using a soft touch.
Highlighting can help bring forward certain features and create a more youthful, radiant look. For a more intense highlight, you can apply a shimmery product, but be careful not to go overboard to avoid looking too shiny.
Step 6: Blend, blend, blend
One of the most important steps in contouring and highlighting is to blend everything seamlessly. Use a clean makeup sponge or brush to blend out any harsh lines and ensure that your makeup looks natural. Pay close attention to the edges of your contour and highlight to ensure a smooth transition between the two.
Step 7: Set your makeup
To make sure your contour and highlight stay in place all day, set your makeup with a setting spray or translucent powder. This will help lock everything in and prevent any creasing or fading throughout the day.
Step 8: Practice makes perfect
Contouring and highlighting can be a bit tricky at first, but don’t get discouraged. Like any skill, it takes practice to master the art of contouring and highlighting. Experiment with different products, tools, and techniques to find what works best for you and your face shape.
Watch tutorials, read blogs, and follow makeup artists on social media for inspiration and tips. The more you practice, the more confident you’ll become with contouring and highlighting.
In conclusion, contouring and highlighting can be powerful tools to enhance your natural beauty and create a more sculpted, defined look. By following this step-by-step guide and practicing regularly, you can achieve a flawless, camera-ready look that will turn heads wherever you go. So grab your contour and highlight products and get ready to slay the makeup game!
