Easy steps to achieve contour looks

Easy steps to achieve contour looks


How to Contour: A Beginner's Guide to Sculpting Your Face

Contouring can seem intimidating, but with the right techniques, it can dramatically enhance your facial features. Let's break it down step by step:

Before you decide you want to contour your face it is IMPORTANT to know your face shape. When you’re on social media platforms and you’re seeing other people’s contour routine, it intrigues you but that routine may not work for you as it does for them. You may do your contour however you desire but if you contour based on your face shape you will see a noticeable difference that improves your makeup routine.

Contour enhances your facial structure and allows you to experiment with different looks. When you apply concealer that contrasts to your contour you will see that your makeup will have your face highlighted and sculpted.

The first step to mastering contour is to figure out what kind of contour works for you. It could be a cream or even a matte product which usually depends on your skin type. A creamy smooth contour like will sculpt your face perfectly. Rather you want a light or bold contour, a contour palette, works wonders. It comes in light, medium and dark tones that allows you to blend easily with no struggles. Afterwards, experiment and look up contour guides based on your face shape. For example, those who have a diamond face shape usually contour under their cheekbones while those with a more round shape will contour from their temples to under their cheekbones and on each side of their jaw.

Understanding Contouring

Choosing the Right Products


  • Contour shade:

    This should be a few shades darker than your skin tone and have a cool undertone to mimic natural shadows.

  • Highlight shade:

    This should be a few shades lighter than your skin tone and have a warm undertone to mimic sunlight.

  • Brushes:

    You'll need an angled brush for precise application and a fluffy brush for blending.

Step-by-Step Contouring


  1. Prep your skin:

    Ensure your skin is hydrated and primed before applying makeup.

  2. Identify your face shape:

    Different face shapes require different contouring techniques.

  3. Apply foundation:

    This will create a base for your contour and highlight.

  4. Contour:

    Use the angled brush to apply the contour shade to the hollows of your cheeks, the sides of your nose,your jawline, and your temples.

  5. Highlight:

    Apply the highlight shade to the tops of your cheekbones, the bridge of your nose, the cupid's bow, and the inner corners of your eyes.

  6. Blend:

    Use the fluffy brush to blend the contour and highlight seamlessly into your skin.

Contouring Tips

  • Start with a light hand and gradually build up the color.
  • Use a damp beauty sponge for a more diffused look.
  • Practice makes perfect! Don't be discouraged if it takes time to master.

Contouring for Different Face Shapes


  • Round face:

    Contour the sides of your face to create a more defined jawline.

  • Oval face:

    Softly contour the temples and jawline to enhance your natural shape.

  • Heart-shaped face:

    Soften the forehead by contouring the hairline.

  • Square face:

    Contour the jawline and temples to soften the angles.

Common Contouring Mistakes


  • Over-applying:

    Less is often more. Start with a small amount and build up gradually.

  • Incorrect shade:

    Choose a contour shade that complements your skin tone.

  • Neglecting blending:

    Proper blending is key to a natural look.
Remember, contouring is a form of self-expression. Experiment with different techniques and find what works best for you. Everyone starts as a beginner when it comes to makeup and we constantly practice until we get the perfect look that we like. Therefore, continue to practice with contouring to see what looks best for your face shape!
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