Who does not like a sharp jawline or chiselled cheekbones? We all do right! Though it is achievable with a healthy lifestyle and regular workout, it requires time and effort. However, if you want it all without much effort, then we have some good news for you! A contour can give you the cheekbones of your dream and a jaw-dropping jawline in just a few minutes.
Professional makeup artists use contouring techniques to highlight the features of your face and define them even further. They also use it to make corrections to your facial features.
Contouring is done using shades lighter or darker to your natural skin tone. People use it to give shadow and light effects on the face. Recently the HD, 3D, and 4D makeups have been very much in trend. In most of these makeups, contouring lines and techniques play a significant role in achieving the overall look. These days, there are easy to use contours available in the market. So you can choose what suits you the best.
What is Contouring?
Contouring is a technique to accentuate or enhance the shape or structure of the face using a bronzer or a foundation. These techniques are generally for sculpting and adding dimension to your face. It is done by using makeup that is slightly darker or lighter than your actual skin colour.
Contouring is all about creating a shadow and light effect on your face. Different faces require different types of contouring to get the perfect result. There are some tips and tricks to know which parts to contour and how much to contour.
How Does Contouring Work?
Contouring requires the use of either powder or cream products. You will have to use a shade lighter and a shade darker than your skin. Apply the lighter shade on high areas of the face. These include T-Zone and cheekbones. And apply the darker shade on the lower regions of the face where you want the shadow effect. It covers areas below your blush, on the lower jawline, upper corner of the temple, and on the slopes of your nose. While contouring, make sure to blend and smudge the lines well; otherwise, the results may not be satisfactory.
Which Contour to Choose Powder or Cream?
Cream contours often last longer than powder ones. But it can also come off as a bit strong. However, if they are blended well, it sits perfectly and will last all day. Cream contour requires a lot of hard work in the form of blending to make it look seamless. Powder contours, on the other hand, are less time-consuming and easier to apply.
If you are thinking of getting something subtle and quick, then powder contours are the best choice. And if you are a beginner, then doing powder contour won’t be a task. Another point to remember is that cream contours might feel too heavy for your face, especially if you have oily skin.
Tips to Keep in Mind while Contouring
- The first thing to make sure of while contouring is to choose the right shade. Have the correct light and dark tones
- Go with grey or taupe tones, do not use pink or orange undertones
- Also, make sure that they do not have shimmer in them as this will throw light on the contours and spoil the look
- Do not apply too much product at once while contouring. The best way to do contouring is to take the products little by little and blend them properly.
- After contouring, make sure to apply a bit of setting powder. It will make your contour stay in place for a longer time.
- Highlight and contour go hand in hand, so adding highlight to your face can bring out the overall contour.
Areas to Contour According to Face Shape.
Different types of face shapes require different types of contouring to bring out their facial features.
Round Face: If you have a round face, defining your cheekbones will give them a more pinched look. The best way to do this is to make a three along the side of your face. Start with your hairline in the middle of your forehead and make a C till the below of your cheekbone. Then, for the lower half, make another C from the lower cheekbone to your Jawline. Make sure that the first C ends at a distance of two fingers above the lips.
Oval Face: For an Oval face, the main focus should be on the cheek area. For the Cheeks, make a fish face and start at the middle of the ear and stretch it till the area is wholly pinched in. Do not contour much on the forehead and the jawline as these are already narrow.
Square Face: Choose the areas you want to contour and define them for a square face. Be as light as possible as your face is already broad and angular enough.
Heart-Shaped: For heart-shaped faces, only contour the upper part of your face. Pay attention to the forehead and the cheekbones. Don’t even bother contouring the jawline, as that part is already sharp enough.
Makeup is a form of art. It takes time and practice to perfect it completely. So keep practising and trying different techniques to achieve your perfect contoured look. These were all the tips and tricks that you need to keep in mind while contouring. We hope this article was helpful for you. Also, check out the fantastic Olay products.