Step by Step Contour Makeup

Introduction

Hi, I’m John Johnson and I’m excited to share with you my step-by-step guide on contour makeup. As someone who has struggled with creating the perfect contour, I understand how daunting it can be for beginners. But fear not, with a little practice and guidance, you too can achieve a flawless contour.

In this article, I’ll be sharing my personal experiences, expert tips, and studies to help you master the art of contour makeup. So, let’s get started!

What is Contour Makeup?

Contour makeup is a technique used to highlight and define the natural bone structure of the face. It involves using a combination of light and dark shades to create the illusion of shadows and depth.

Contouring can help slim down the face, make cheekbones appear more prominent, and define the jawline. It’s a popular technique used by makeup artists and celebrities to create a sculpted look.

Curiosities, Statistics, and Facts

• Contour makeup has been around since the 16th century.
• The term contouring was popularized in the 1990s by makeup artist Kevyn Aucoin.
• A survey by Cosmopolitan found that 70% of women wear makeup to contour their face.
• Contouring can take up to 20 minutes to complete.
• The Kardashian family is known for popularizing the contouring trend.

How to Contour

Before you start contouring, make sure you have the right tools. You’ll need a contour brush, a highlight brush, and contour powder or cream.

1. Start by applying foundation and concealer as you normally would.
2. Using a contour brush, apply contour powder or cream to the hollows of your cheeks, temples, and jawline. Make sure to blend well to avoid harsh lines.
3. Using a highlight brush, apply highlighter to the high points of your face, such as the tops of your cheekbones, the bridge of your nose, and your cupid’s bow.
4. Blend the highlighter and contour together for a seamless finish.
5. Set your makeup with a setting spray to ensure it lasts all day.

Remember, practice makes perfect. Don’t be discouraged if your first attempt isn’t perfect. Keep trying and adjust the shades and application technique to suit your face shape.

Expert Tips

• Choose a contour shade that’s two shades darker than your skin tone.
• Blend, blend, blend! Use a blending brush to avoid harsh lines.
• Apply contour in natural light to ensure it looks natural.
• Don’t forget to contour your nose for a slimmer appearance.

According to celebrity makeup artist Mario Dedivanovic, the key to contouring is to enhance your natural features, not change them.

My Personal Experience

I was always intimidated by contouring, but after watching countless YouTube tutorials and practicing, I finally got the hang of it. Now, I can’t imagine doing my makeup without contouring. It’s amazing how much of a difference it makes in defining my features.

My go-to product for contouring is the Anastasia Beverly Hills Contour Kit. It comes with six shades that work for a variety of skin tones, and the powders blend like a dream.

FAQs

1. What’s the difference between contour powder and cream?

Contour powder is easier to blend and works well for beginners. Contour cream provides a more dramatic effect and is best for those with dry skin.

2. What’s the best brush for contouring?

Use a brush with a small, angled head for precise application. The Sigma F40 Large Angled Contour Brush is a popular choice.

3. Can I contour with bronzer?

While bronzer can be used for a subtle contour, it’s not the best option. Bronzer typically has shimmer and isn’t as pigmented as contour powder or cream.