How to contour and highlight: a step-by-step guide for beginners
A beauty secret of the stars, makeup addicts everywhere are using it more and more: we’re talking about contouring.
How does it work? Essentially, facial contouring is the use of an optical effect known as the chiaroscuro effect to reshape the face and enhancing facial features.
More specifically, it plays on contrasts between shaded areas (created by applying a bronzer or contouring products) and highlighted areas (achieved by a highlighter), to create a perfect base for any type of makeup, from the simplest to the most attention-grabbing.
Complicated? Of course it can’t be improvised, but with the right tools and a little practice you’ll get excellent results. Learn how to perfectly contour the shape of your face!
Basic tips
Once you know your shape, you can start with your daily skin routine so your face will be fully prepped for your makeup.
A common question is when to apply contour: before or after foundation?
To achieve the best result it is best to first apply your foundation and your concealer and then proceed by applying your contour, this way you will have a clearer idea about which parts of your face you want to reshape and add some shadow.
A great way to contour your face is by using KIKO MILANO’s contour stick since it will add the right amount of product onto the face and because of its creamy texture, it makes it easy to blend.
Where to contour
OVAL SHAPE:
If your face shape is more oval, you will want to add your contour onto two places: on your forehead to give the illusion of it being smaller with one oblique stroke close you your hairline, and right under your cheekbone following its structure to add some depth.
ROUND SHAPE:
The steps are the same for a round face, but instead of only applying it on the forehead and cheekbones, add some contour right under your jawline.
DIAMOND SHAPE:
If your face resembles a diamond, you will only want to apply contour right below your cheekbone to add some shade to your face.
HEART SHAPE:
For a heart-shaped face, add a stroke of contour right under your chin to redefine this area and along your forehead and temples.
After you have contoured your face and blended the product, you can continue with your makeup routine by using a powder, a blush, and a highlighter.
For the blush, you will want to add it on your cheeks following the shape of your cheekbone, this way you are sure to get an even look.
If you are not sure where to add highlighter, simply think of the parts of your face where the sun usually hits, like your upper cheekbone, the tip of your nose.
If you don’t have oily skin you can also add some to your brow bone.
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How to contour with powder
Although a contouring stick can be used on every skin type, you may sometimes prefer to contour using powder, especially those times of the year in which your skin is slightly more oily.
Perfect contour using powder can be achieved in small simple steps thanks to KIKO MILANO’s contouring palette.
The steps that precede the application of the powder are the same:
1) Remove any makeup residue and wash your face for a clean surface to work on.
2) Apply a moisturizing cream and, once absorbed, a primer.
3) Apply an even layer of foundation and blend well onto the skin.
4) Apply either a pressed or loose powder so you are sure that your contour will be even.
Now it’s time to contour your face and to do so you will need to reach for your brushes.
Once you have determined what kind of shape your face is, transfer the product onto it by gently drawing a line following the same steps you would follow if using a contour stick.
To make sure you are not adding too much pigment, tap the brush to remove any product excess. It is best to start small and add more as you go along.
When the contouring step is done, you can follow with your blush and highlighter for an outstanding look!
Remember that clever contouring can also help you to camouflage any imperfections that might ruin the harmony of your face: with this technique, everyone can find the right balance to enhance their beauty.
What tools to use
For a flawless application, you should use medium-sized brushes designed to perfectly follow the structure of your face like KIKO MILANO’s sculpting brush.
If you wish to also contour your nose, you will have to use a smaller brush like a concealer brush. This way you are sure to put the right amount of product right where you need it.
Contour do’s and don’ts:
When applying contour there are some general suggestions that are good to follow to achieve the best result.
● Don’t choose a really dark shade, you want to create a natural effect so go for only one or two shades darker than your skin tone.
● Choose a matte formula instead of a shimmering one: remember the goal of contour is to apply shade, while other makeup products like highlighters or a shimmer bronzer are meant to highlight.
● Use the right brush: although you are dealing with a creamy product it is best not to use the same one you use for your foundation. Use a packed flat brush like KIKO MILANO’s contouring brush, this will help to keep the product in place while blending it.
● While contouring, try to use natural light instead of artificial light.
● Use blush and highlighter to finish off the look! Contour will add shade to some parts of your face, but you will also want other features to stand out!
Contouring your face will be a bit tricky if you are just starting out, but with the right products and the right tools, you will quickly learn to perfectly add shade and light to your face, achieving a flawless look!