Contouring has become a major trend in the makeup world, with countless tutorials and products flooding the market. But with all the information out there, how do you know the right way to contour? As a makeup artist, I’ve seen my fair share of contouring mishaps and successes. Today, I want to share with you the dos and don’ts of contouring from a makeup artist’s perspective.
Let’s start with the dos. These are the essential steps to achieve a flawless contour that enhances your features and enhances your overall look.
Do Prep Your Skin
Before you even think about picking up your contour products, it’s crucial to properly prep your skin. Start by cleansing your face and applying a moisturizer that suits your skin type. This will create a smooth canvas for your makeup and help it last longer throughout the day.
Do Use the Right Shade
Choosing the correct shade for your contour is key. Opt for a shade that is slightly darker than your natural skin tone. If you’re unsure, go for a shade that’s one or two shades darker than your foundation. Avoid shades that are too warm or orange-toned, as they can make your contour look unnatural.
Do Blend, Blend, Blend
The key to a seamless contour is blending. Use a blending brush, sponge, or even your fingertips to blend the contour product into your skin. Make sure there are no harsh lines or noticeable demarcations.
Do Focus on the Hollows of Your Face
Contouring is all about enhancing and defining your facial structure. Focus on the hollows of your cheeks, temples, jawline, and the sides of your nose. By shading these areas, you can create the illusion of a more sculpted face.
Do Set Your Contour
To ensure your contour stays in place all day long, set it with a powder that matches your contour shade. This will also help to prevent any unwanted smudging or fading.
Now let’s move on to the don’ts. These are the mistakes that can make your contour look harsh, unnatural, or just plain unflattering.
Don’t Overdo It
We’ve all seen those Instagram makeup looks with intense, dramatic contouring. While this might work for a photoshoot or stage performance, it’s not ideal for everyday wear. Keep your contouring subtle and natural-looking. Remember, less is more.
Don’t Forget to Blend Your Contour With Your Foundation
One of the most common mistakes I see is when people forget to blend their contour with their foundation. This creates a distinct line between the two, resulting in a patchy and unblended look. Always make sure to seamlessly blend your contour into your foundation for a flawless finish.
Don’t Use Shimmery or Glittery Contour Products
Shimmery or glittery contour products might look tempting, but they often create an unnatural and over-the-top effect. Stick to matte contour products for a more natural look.
Don’t Use a Shade That’s Too Dark
As mentioned earlier, using a shade that is too dark for your skin tone can make your contour look harsh and muddy. Remember to choose a shade that is only slightly darker than your natural skin tone for a more natural-looking result.
Don’t Forget to Highlight
Contouring and highlighting go hand-in-hand. After contouring, make sure to highlight the high points of your face such as your cheekbones, brow bone, and the bridge of your nose. This will add dimension and balance to your overall look.
Contouring can be a game-changer when done right, but it can also go awry if not executed properly. By following these dos and don’ts, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of contouring and achieving a flawless makeup look. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for your unique facial features. Happy contouring!
