The Dos and Don’ts of Contouring

Contouring highlights your natural bone structure, slims your nose, and adds definition. Professional celebrity makeup artists have been contouring for years, but now you too can master this technique. Achieve a well contoured face with these beauty tips dos and don’ts on contouring:

[ctt template=”5″ link=”2mSAc” via=”no” ]If you have fair skin, use a tone one or two shades darker for contouring[/ctt]

Do choose the right shade for your skin tone. The goal of contouring is to add definition, not make your skin look tan. For example, if you have fair skin, use a tone that’s one or two shades darker, but never more. When done right, you should have a natural looking contour and flattering shape.

Don’t mix creams and powders. Contouring can be achieved with a cream or a powder, each giving a different type of look. Cream gives a dewy glow that’s best for dry skin. Powder gives a matte look that’s best for oily skin. Whichever one you choose, stick to it. Don’t mix the two.

Do blend. Always blend to avoid harsh lines. You want your contoured look to appear soft and natural. Use a blending sponge or fluffy brush to even out tones.

Don’t pile it on too thick. You want to build and blend the color, but you don’t want it to become too heavy. When done right, a well contoured faced should look effortless and natural, not caked on. Practice to find the right balance.

Do customize your technique to your face shape. The rules of contouring aren’t the same for everyone. If you have a round face, then contouring under your cheekbones can slim you out. But, with a narrow face, focus the shading along your forehead and chin.

Don’t forget blush! Without some subtle color on the cheeks, your nicely contoured face will fall flat. Lightly sweep color across the apples of your cheeks for a naturally flushed look.

Check out our weekly Beauty Buzz Blog for more tips and tricks! If you can’t get enough, then maybe a career in cosmetology or esthetics is right for you! Salon Success Academy is a beauty school with five convenient locations across the Inland Empire in California. Call (877) 987-4247 to learn more!