How do I achieve a natural-looking contour?
Learn from Cosmetics
Here's how to achieve a natural-looking contour:
Preparation is Key:
1. Cleanse and Moisturize: Start with a clean, well-moisturized face. This creates a smooth canvas for your makeup and helps prevent product from settling into creases.
2. Apply Primer (Optional): A primer can help your makeup last longer and can also minimize the appearance of pores, which can further enhance the natural look of your contour.
Know Your Face Shape:
* Heart-Shaped: Focus contour on the outer portion of your forehead, just above the temples. Blend down towards the cheekbones, following the natural hollow. Lightly contour the jawline, blending upwards.
* Round-Shaped: Apply contour to the temples, blending down towards the cheekbones. Define the jawline with a light touch, focusing on the lower half.
* Oval-Shaped: You may not need much contouring, but a subtle touch on the temples and jawline can add definition.
* Square-Shaped: Contour the temples and jawline, blending upwards to soften the angles.
Choosing the Right Products:
* Cream or Powder? Cream formulas can blend more seamlessly for a natural look, while powders offer buildable coverage. Choose what works best for your skin type.
* Color Selection: Opt for a contour shade 1-2 shades cooler than your skin tone, not too gray or brown. Cream bronzers can also work for a natural, warm definition.
Application and Blending:
1. Less is More: Start with a light hand and build up gradually. You can always add more, but it's harder to remove too much product.
2. Apply in Shapes: For cheekbones, draw a "3" shape on each side of your face, starting near your temple and blending down towards your jaw.
3. Blending is Crucial: Use a fluffy brush to blend out your contour thoroughly. Buff in circular motions to ensure no harsh lines remain.
Adding Dimension:
* Highlighter: Apply highlighter to the tops of your cheekbones, brow bone, and Cupid's bow to bring forward features and create a natural glow.
* Blush: For a healthy flush, apply blush to the apples of your cheeks, blending back towards your temples. Cream or powder blush can work depending on your preference.
Here are some additional tips for a natural contour:
* Use natural light: Apply your makeup in natural light to ensure you're not overdoing it.
* Set your makeup: Apply a light setting powder to lock in your contour and prevent it from smudging.
* Practice makes perfect: Don't get discouraged if it takes a few tries to achieve the natural contour you desire.
By following these steps and practicing your technique, you can achieve a natural-looking contour that enhances your features without appearing too dramatic.