Contouring, the makeup technique that can transform your facial features and bone structure, is a makeup enthusiast’s secret weapon. It primarily enhances facial structure, allowing individuals to imagine more defined cheekbones, a slimmer nose, and a chiselled jawline. By strategically applying darker shades, it balances facial proportions, downplaying features one may wish to minimise and accentuate others.
Furthermore, contouring adds depth and dimension to the face, preventing it from appearing flat under various lighting conditions or in photographs. For special occasions and photography, this technique is particularly valuable. Makeup artists also employ contouring as a creative tool, enabling them to craft diverse looks that match characters or themes.
Contouring can conceal imperfections and boost self-confidence, ultimately helping individuals feel more comfortable and empowered in their skin. In summary, contour in makeup offers a versatile means of enhancing natural beauty and achieving desired appearances. But the question often arises: how do you choose the perfect shade to suit your unique complexion? In this expert guide, we’ll walk you through the steps.
- Discover Your Undertone: The initial step in finding the right contour shade is identifying your skin’s undertone. To effectively mimic the natural shadows on your face, opt for a contour shade 2-3 shades darker than your skin tone with a matching undertone. To determine your undertone, examine the veins on your wrist in natural light. Green veins suggest warm undertones, while blue or purple veins indicate cool undertones. A mix of both means you have neutral undertones.
- Contour Palette Convenience: If you struggle to find the perfect shade, consider investing in a contour palette. These versatile palettes allow you to mix and customise shades, adapting to changes in your natural complexion throughout the seasons. Depending on your skin tone:
- Fair or medium skin: Choose neutral, taupe shades with cooler undertones.
- Tanned or olive skin: Opt for deeper, golden shades with warmer undertones to avoid an ashy look.
- Darker skin: Use deep, warm chestnut brown shades with the right balance of blue and red undertones for warmth and depth.
3. Powder or Cream Contours: Both powder and cream contours serve the same purpose but offer different benefits:
- Powders are perfect for daily wear and are beginner-friendly, ideal for quick applications and oily skin.
- Cream contours provide a deeper, longer-lasting contour and offer hydration, making them ideal for dry skin.
Finding the right contour shade is crucial for achieving a natural look that enhances your features. Identifying your undertone is key, but if you’re uncertain, a contour palette is a valuable tool for customizing your perfect shade by mixing and matching. Whether you prefer powder or cream contours depends on your skin type and preferences. With these tips, you’ll be on your way to mastering the art of contouring.
