Sculpt and Slay: Mastering Contouring for Your Unique Face Shape

1. The Contouring Basics – What you need to know

What is Contouring?

Contouring is the beauty hack that can transform your face, adding definition and highlighting your best features. It involves using makeup to create shadows and highlights, enhancing your bone structure and giving you that coveted chiseled look.

Tools of the Trade:

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let’s talk tools. You’ll need:

• Contour Palette: Choose one with shades that complement your skin tone.
• Blending Brushes: Essential for achieving that seamless, airbrushed finish.
• Highlighter: A shimmering touch for those high points.

2. Identifying Your Face Shape – The Blueprint for Contouring

The Round Face:

Round faces benefit from creating the illusion of angles. Contour along the jawline, beneath the cheekbones, and along the sides of the forehead. Highlight the centre of the forehead and the tops of the cheekbones.

The Oval Face:

Oval faces are like the universal donors of face shapes, but contouring can still enhance your natural beauty. Focus on the sides of the forehead, under the cheekbones, and along the jawline. Highlight the centre of the forehead, tops of cheekbones, and down the bridge of the nose.

The Heart-Shaped Face:

For those with heart-shaped faces, contour along the sides of the forehead, under the cheekbones, and along the jawline. Apply highlighter to the centre of the forehead, tops of cheekbones, and the tip of the chin.

The Square Face:

Square faces can benefit from softening angles. Contour along the hairline, under the cheekbones, and along the jawline. Highlight the centre of the forehead, tops of cheekbones, and the chin.

The Diamond Face:

Diamond faces can play up their unique structure. Contour along the hairline, under the cheekbones, and along the jawline. Highlight the centre of the forehead, tops of cheekbones, and the chin.

3. The Contouring Process – Step by Step

Step 1: Prime and Prep:

Start with a clean, moisturised face. Apply your favourite foundation and concealer as usual.

Step 2: Contour Placement:

Using a shade slightly darker than your natural skin tone, apply contour along the areas we identified for your face shape. Remember, it’s all about creating shadows.

Step 3: Blend, Blend, Blend:

The key to a flawless contour is seamless blending. Use a brush or makeup sponge to blend the contour into your foundation. No harsh lines here!

Step 4: Highlighting Magic:

Apply your chosen highlighter to the areas we highlighted for your face shape. This step brings those features forward.

Step 5: Finishing Touches:

Set your masterpiece with a translucent setting powder to ensure your contour stays put throughout the day.

4. Pro Tips for Contouring Perfection

Less is More:

It’s easier to add more product than to remove excess. Start with a light hand, and build up gradually.

Invest in Quality Brushes:

Good brushes are your contouring companions. Invest in a set with different shapes and densities for a professional finish.

Natural Lighting is Your Friend:

Contour in natural light to ensure your makeup looks flawless in any setting.

5. Contouring for Different Occasions

Daytime Contouring:

For a natural daytime look, go easy on the contour and highlight. Stick to matte products for a subtle finish.

Night Out Contouring:

Feel free to amp up the drama for a night out. Don’t shy away from shimmering highlighters and a bolder contour.

There you have it, contouring connoisseurs! Armed with the knowledge of your face shape and the right tools, you’re ready to sculpt and slay like a pro. Whether you’re aiming for a soft daytime glow or a bold nighttime look, contouring is your secret weapon.

Remember, makeup is an art form, and there are no strict rules. Feel free to experiment, embrace your uniqueness, and let your creativity shine. Happy contouring!