The Power of Contouring - A Makeup Guide For Beginners

Contouring various segments of the face has become a vital skill set for beauty experts in the age of Instagram. A must-have skill set for celebrities, influencers, and makeup artists, this method was adopted with the introduction of social media, when looking perfect in selfies was one of the primary prerequisites for amassing and engaging a sizable following. 

If you're a beauty buff, you've inevitably been over contour makeup already. Before we get started on "how to acquire that crisp and sculpted face," let's define the power of contouring for beginners.

What is a Contour? 

Contouring is a beauty technique that configures or tightens distinct facial features for a sharper, taller, or more embellished impression. Contours, unlike other beauty products, create a shadow-like effect and are meant to stand out with a steeper face angle. Whether to build the façade of a shadow or to highlight those curves on your face, Contour is the right choice for that fabulous pop!

When it comes to the 'how to' of contouring the face and neck, the most important part is picking the ideal shade. Most makeup artists recommend using a shade that is either darker than the foundation or at least twice as dark as your skin tone.

  • The preferred choice: Cream or Powder contour? 
  • It is imperative to pick the right formulation for your skin type and the desired look. This decision, whether to contour with a cream or a powder, is entirely personal. However, for newbies, a cream-based contour is often recommended since it is simpler to apply and build up.

    Cream-based contour is a wonderful choice if you don't want a prominent impression on your face after contouring. A cream contour is preferable for those who want a more natural, & subtle look. People with normal to combination skin might choose this option.

    Whereas, for a more significant impact on your face, use a powder contour, since it makes your face seem more carved. Powder contours are excellent for people with oily skin and are known to produce a matte finish that lasts longer.

    Keep in mind that the key to achieving the desirable contour is blending. Also, don't use too much of the stuff or it may spoil your impression. 

  • Contouring: Step-by-Step Guide 
  • Some 'must haves' in your makeup arsenal for a more ornate appearance are, your go-to skincare, foundation, bronzer (2 shades darker than your skin tone), concealer, and a setting powder. Make sure to use the products according to your skin type and texture.

    Contouring should complement your inherent facial shape and differ for everyone based on bone structure and face shape.

    Prepare your face: 
      • Begin your skincare regimen by washing your face and applying a moisturizer to your face to avoid makeup from adhering to dry skin or harsh wrinkles.
      • Apply a primer as it serves as a shield between skincare regimens and makeup products, allowing them to perform more effectively and last longer.
      • Even out the skin tone using a foundation or concealer that has tints that compliment natural skin tones and undertones while hiding scrapes and discoloration.

    Shadow: 
      • The most basic contouring technique is to apply a dark shade to create a silhouette under the cheekbones.
      • To fine-tune the cheekbones, embrace the natural form of the chin and temples, inhale the cheeks, and track the product along the cheek cavities.
      • Relying on the shape of the face and the distinctive facial characteristics, the shadow can be placed in one of three places: on the sides of the nose, underneath the cheekbone and chin lines, in the shape of a "3" along the hairline, or in the shape of an inverted triangle bordering the cheeks.
      • Explore with different lines and shadows on your face until you discover the appearance that fits you.

    Highlight: 
      • Bright tones or highlighters should be applied to regions of the face that inherently reflect light, such as the forehead, bridge of the nose, tip of the nose, upper cheekbones, Cupid's bow, around the eyes, and brow bones.
      • Use a concealer that is a tad lighter in color than your skin, or a shimmering (but not dazzling!) highlighter, illuminator, or eyeshadow.

    Blush: Integrating blush on the apples of your cheeks isn't mandatory for a contouring look, but it may help your makeup seem more natural.

    Blending: 
    • Blending is highly relevant when you're working with colors that don't match your skin tone.
    • Mix shadows and highlights, into your skin or foundation layer by using a blending brush or makeup sponge, until the lines you produce seem more lifelike.

    Set: Apply setting powder or spray for that touch of elegance.

    Lo and behold! That is the culmination! Doesn't it look really natural? Now that you've mastered the fundamentals, try out the contoured style with this as your guidance. Our only suggestion to novices, is to stick to the basics and purchase a contouring kit that includes everything you want. 

    This is why we recommend you to try our Ultra Contouring Palette which is fit for all levels – from beginners to professionals – and is available in a variety of colors. So, what exactly are you waiting for? Now is the time to put everything to the test!