Contouring and Highlighting are one of the many makeup techniques that every makeup addict should have under their belt. They can totally transform your face by improving your features & hiding your flaws. As Darker colours (Bronzer) push back areas while lighter colours (Highlighter) bring them forward!
Things you'll need!
* To contour, you will need a colour that is one to two shades darker than your foundation. The product you use has to be matte it can be a cream or powder bronzer, brown or taupe blusher or brown eye shadow. My current favourites are NYC Sunny Bronzer, Nars multiple in Tuomota, Dainty Doll Blusher in Million Dollar Babies, Chanel Bronze universal.
* To highlight, you will need a colour that is one to two shades lighter than your foundation. You can use a shimmery Cream/beige eyeshadow, a lighter foundation/concealer or a highlighter.My current Favourites are Dior Amber Diamonds, Accesorize Golden sands or Bourjois Beige Rose 08.
* I would highly recommend using pressed powders for Highlighting as they are the easiest to use. Also pick a colour that is neutral not to pink or Yellow for your skin tone.
Places to Contour
* Under your cheekbones
* Along both sides of your nose
* Bottom of your chin
* Jawline
* Creases of your eyes
* Temples
Places to Highlight
* Front of the forehead
* Along the bridge of your nose
* Right above your cheeks
* Inner corner of your eyes
* Browbone
* Center of your chin
* Cupid’s bow (Top lip)
Obviously you don't need to do it in all the above places this is just a guide as where you can do it depending on your features & flaws :)
Simply follow the picture taken from Kevyn Aucoin above, making sure to blend the lines by gently pressing the colour onto your face, I prefer using a Real Techniques Buffing Brush. But you can use your fingers, a brush or a damp make up sponge, Whichever you are most comfortable with, Make sure there are no harsh lines or edges, Also try not to mix the two colours together, it is always easier to add more colour – and experiment to find out what works best for you.
I would also only recommend doing the above on a night out, as it looks best with night lighting, during the day i tend to just lightly Contour under my cheek bones, sides of my forehead & under my chin with powder, If i do highlight in the day i would just add a little on the tops of my cheeks.
I don't think contouring and highlighting is necessary for everyone, but it will definitely benefit you having a little contouring and highlighting. You just need lot's of practice and make sure everything is well-blended to make sure all lines disappear to make it look natural. I think it finishes a look making you look naturally gorgeous!!
Are you a fan of Contouring & Highlighting?
