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Lots ofmakeup trendscome and go, but one thats not going anywhere is face contour.
Vittorio Zunino Celotto/Getty Images
Dont know how to contour?
For many makeup lovers, the technique seems brand-new.
But in reality, makeup artists have been doing it since the 1930s.
Emily Ratajkowski in contour makeup
And the rest is history.
According to celebrity makeup artist andMary KayambassadorJaleesa Jaikaran, contouring is a way to transformyour face shape.
Thats another reason so many celebrities swear by the technique: Its ideal if youre appearing on camera.
Courtesy of makeup artist and estheticianAmanda Gabbard
There are different iterations of contouringsomesofter and subtlerthan others, that make it wearable for everyday.
For example,underpaintingapplies your contour under foundation for a more natural look.
We talked to leading makeup artists to give you the scoop on how to execute a contoured makeup look.
Read on for everything you gotta know about contouring.
Simply define your cheeks quickly with bronzer, Wulff says.
For an example of how to do this, see Gabbards tutorial below.
How to Contour in 5 Steps
1.
Youve heard it before and youll hear it again: good makeup starts with good skin care.
Its packed with hyaluronic acid, which plumps and hydrates skin.
Then go in with a primer that will help your makeup last all day.
Your contour will look best when its applied on top of a smooth, even-toned canvas.
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Meet your contour match.
Jaikaran recommends choosing a contour shade thats only two or three shades darker than your skin.
Remember that contour shades should run more cool than warm, she says.
Her product of choice isChocolate Solei Matte Bronzersince its on the cooler side and has a matte finish.
For a cream option, Gabbard recommendsMakeup by Marios SoftSculpt Transforming Skin Enhancer.
It’s not technically a bronzer, but it can be used as one.
I prefer shade Medium or Medium Dark, she says.
Powder contour is great for oily skin types or those who prefer a matte finish.
Once youve nailed that down, its time to start applying.
For a seamless blend, lightly go over your work with a damp sponge to remove any excess product.
Just remember: You dont want to create any harsh lines.
We want to raise and define the face!
Add blush and highlighter.
Youve got the dimension part down; now its time to add some light.
Contour and highlight go together like peanut butter and jelly, says Reneau.
It all goes back to art class: Dark recedes and light advances.
Were lovingIconic London Illuminatorbecause the liquid blends easily on top of powder or cream products.
you could also apply cream blush to the apples and sides of your cheeks, says Wulff.
I love usingCharlotte Tilburys Matte Beauty Blush WandorBenefits Benetintfor long-lasting wear, he says.
Blend upwards using stippling motions with a dense brush."
