How To Apply Face Contouring Makeup ? Contouring is all about enhancing your natural features and creating the illusion of a sculpted, radiant face. Whether you’re preparing for a night out, a special event, or just want to feel fabulous on a regular Tuesday, knowing the art of contouring can elevate your makeup game to a whole new level. So, grab your favorite brushes and let’s dive into the magical world of face contouring makeup!
Understanding Face Contouring Makeup
Contouring is a makeup technique that uses different shades to emphasize and define your facial structure. The essence of how to apply face contouring makeup lies in playing with light and shadow. By using darker shades to create depth and lighter shades to bring areas forward, you can achieve that sought-after chiseled look.
The Basics of Color Theory
Before jumping straight into contouring, it’s essential to understand a bit about color theory. The primary rule is that dark shades recede while light shades advance. This foundation is the key to mastering how to apply face contouring makeup.
- Light shades (like highlighters) are typically applied to the tops of your cheekbones, the bridge of your nose, and your forehead.
- Dark shades (like bronzers or contour products) are used under your cheekbones, along your jawline, and the sides of your nose.
Tools You’ll Need
To contour like a pro, you’ll need some fabulous tools. Here’s a list to get started with your how to apply face contouring makeup journey:
- Contour Stick or Cream: Look for a shade that is 1-2 shades darker than your skin tone.
- Highlighter: A cream or liquid highlighter that matches your skin tone works beautifully.
- Blending Sponge: This helps create a seamless finish.
- Contour Brush: A small, angled brush for precise application.
- Kabuki Brush or Buffing Brush: For blending everything together.
- Setting Powder: To lock everything in place.
Preparing Your Face for Contouring
Before diving into how to apply face contouring makeup, you must prep your canvas for application. Think of your face as a blank piece of art waiting to be transformed!
Cleansing and Moisturizing
Start with a clean and fresh face. Wash away any leftover makeup and debris. Next, apply a hydrating moisturizer that suits your skin type. This step ensures your makeup glides on smoothly.
Prime Your Skin
Applying a good primer can make a world of difference! It creates a smooth surface and helps your makeup stay put longer. Choose a mattifying primer if you have oily skin or a hydrating one for dry skin.
Foundation Application
Select a foundation that matches your skin tone perfectly. Apply it evenly across your face using your blending sponge or brush. This solid foundation will serve as the base for your contouring masterpiece.
Techniques for Applying Contour
Now that you’re all prepped and glowing, it’s time to learn how to apply face contouring makeup like a pro! The key to contouring is to build the product gradually, allowing for a natural finish.
Mapping Your Face
Understanding your face shape is crucial for effective contouring. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Round Face: Contour the sides of your forehead and under your chin to elongate your face.
- Square Face: Soften your jawline with contour along the edges of your jaw.
- Heart-Shaped Face: Focus on the sides of your forehead and under the cheekbones.
- Oval Face: You’re lucky! You can contour a little on your forehead and below your cheekbones for added definition.
Application Steps
- Contour: Apply your contour shade in the hollows of your cheeks (suck in those cheeks!), along your jawline, and the sides of your nose. Use your contour brush to blend it outwards. For the forehead, apply the contour at the temples and blend towards the center.
- Highlight: After contouring, grab that beautiful highlighter! Swipe it on the tops of your cheekbones, the bridge of your nose, under your brows, and your cupid’s bow. This step adds dimension and radiance to your look.
- Blending is Key: Use your damp blending sponge to go over the areas where you applied both contour and highlight. The sponge will help soften any harsh lines and create a seamless finish.
- Setting Your Makeup: To keep your contour looking fabulous all day long, apply a light dusting of setting powder over the highlighted areas. This helps set your makeup and keep it from creasing.
Common Contouring Mistakes to Avoid
As you master how to apply face contouring makeup, being aware of common mistakes can save you from makeup mishaps!
Overdoing It
One of the most common errors is using too much product, which can lead to a cakey appearance. Remember, less is more. Build your contour gradually!
Not Blending Enough
Harsh lines are a big no-no in contouring! Always blend, blend, and blend some more! Using a good-quality sponge can make a world of difference in achieving that flawless finish.
Using the Wrong Shades
Choosing a contour shade that is too dark can look unnatural. Stick to a hue that is 1-2 shades darker than your foundation for a more subtle effect.
Final Touches for a Perfect Contour
Once you’ve sculpted your face with contour and highlight, it’s essential to finish off your look.
Adding Blush
Don’t forget the blush! This will bring a pop of color to your cheeks and can help tie together your whole makeup look. Apply it on the apples of your cheeks and blend it towards your temples for that cute, flushed look.
Setting Spray
To lock in your hard work and fight that midday melt, spritz a setting spray over your face. This will keep everything in place and help your makeup last longer.
Maintenance and Removal
After a fabulous day of flaunting that stunning contour, it’s crucial to remove your makeup properly.
Gentle Makeup Remover
Use a gentle makeup remover or micellar water to clean your face. Do not go to bed with makeup on! Your skin deserves that nighttime love.
Skincare Routine
After cleansing, follow up with your regular skincare routine to keep your skin healthy and happy.
Conclusion: Embrace Your Artistry
Now that you’re equipped with incredible knowledge on how to apply face contouring makeup, it’s time to grab those brushes and have some fun! Remember that makeup is an art form, and every person is a unique canvas. The more you practice, the better you’ll get. So go ahead, contour like a queen and own those stunning cheekbones!
For even more tips and techniques on contouring and makeup application, check out this helpful guide on Makeup.com and unlock your inner artist!
Happy contouring, beautiful! ✨
