Contouring and highlighting

Contour your face to add dimension and shape. Use a contour shade slightly darker than your skin tone under your cheekbones, along the jawline, and on the sides of your nose. Apply a highlighter on the high points of your face like the cheekbones, bridge of the nose, and the cupid's bow.


Contouring and highlighting


Contouring and highlighting are makeup techniques used to enhance and sculpt the face by creating the illusion of shadows and light. These techniques are commonly used in the beauty industry, especially in professional makeup application for events, photography, and film.

  1. Contouring:

  1. Contouring involves using a matte, darker shade of makeup (usually a powder or cream) to create shadows on specific areas of the face. This helps to define and add dimension to the facial features. The areas where contouring is typically applied include:

  • Cheekbones:

  • Apply the contour product just below the cheekbones to make them appear more pronounced and lifted.

  • Nose:

  • Apply contour along the sides of the nose to slim and shape it. This technique can also be used to make the nose look straighter or shorter.

  • Jawline:

  • Contour the jawline to give it a more defined and chiseled appearance.

  • Forehead:

  • Contouring the sides of the forehead can make it appear narrower or balance out facial proportions.

The key to contouring is to blend the product well to achieve a natural and seamless look. Remember, less is often more, so start with a light application and build up gradually.

  1. Highlighting:

  1. Highlighting involves using a light-reflecting product, usually a shimmering powder or cream, to bring attention to certain areas of the face and make them appear more prominent. The areas that are commonly highlighted include:

  • Cheekbones:

  • Apply the highlighter to the highest point of the cheekbones to make them stand out and catch the light.

  • Bridge of the nose:

  • Applying highlighter down the bridge of the nose can make it appear more defined and elongated.

  • Cupid's bow:

  • Highlighting the area above the upper lip accentuates the lips and gives the illusion of a fuller pout.

  • Brow bone:

  • Highlighting under the eyebrows can lift the eyes and make them look more awake.
  • Inner corners of the eyes: Adding highlighter to the inner corners of the eyes can brighten the eyes and make them appear larger.

Just like with contouring, blending is crucial for a natural look. The goal is to create a subtle glow, not an overly obvious shimmer.

  1. Choosing the right products:

    For contouring, opt for a matte bronzer or contour powder that is a few shades darker than your natural skin tone. For highlighting, choose a shimmering powder, cream, or liquid highlighter that complements your skin tone. It's essential to consider your skin type and undertone when selecting products to ensure they blend well and look natural on your skin.

  2. Tools:

    Use makeup brushes or sponges specifically designed for contouring and highlighting to help with precise application and blending.

Keep in mind that contouring and highlighting can be tailored to suit individual face shapes and features. While it can be a fun way to experiment with makeup, remember that it's not necessary for everyday wear, and a natural look can be just as beautiful