Contouring is a technique that helps define the face, create shadows, and highlight certain features. Properly blending contour makeup is key to achieving a natural and flawless look. In this step-by-step guide, we will show you how to blend contour makeup like a professional. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced makeup artist, mastering contour blending can elevate your makeup game.
What Is Contouring?
Contouring is the process of using makeup to define and shape the face. It involves using products darker than your natural skin tone (usually a contour powder or cream) to create shadows and products lighter than your skin tone (usually a highlighter) to bring certain features forward. The goal is to enhance your face shape and create a more sculpted appearance.
Types of Contouring Products
Before we dive into the blending process, it’s important to understand the different types of contouring products available:
- Cream Contour – A creamy formula that blends smoothly into the skin. It’s great for a more dewy and natural finish.
- Powder Contour – A matte powder that is easy to apply and works well for oily skin.
- Stick Contour – A convenient, portable formula. It’s ideal for on-the-go touch-ups but requires careful blending.
- Liquid Contour – A lightweight formula that blends easily and gives a smooth finish.
Each product has its own blending technique, but the overall steps to contouring remain the same.
Step-by-Step Guide to Blending Contour Makeup
Step 1: Prepare Your Skin
Before you begin applying any makeup, it’s crucial to prepare your skin. Start with a clean and moisturized face. Use a gentle cleanser and follow up with a moisturizer that suits your skin type. If you have dry skin, opt for a hydrating moisturizer, while oily skin benefits from oil-free or mattifying options.
Once your skin is prepped, apply a primer. A primer helps create a smooth base and makes your makeup last longer. Choose a primer that suits your skin’s needs – for example, pore-filling primers for those with large pores, or mattifying primers for oily skin.
Step 2: Apply Foundation
Now that your skin is prepped, apply your foundation. Use a foundation that matches your skin tone for an even complexion. You can use a liquid, cream, or stick foundation depending on your preference.
Apply the foundation evenly across your face, blending it into your neck for a seamless finish. This will act as the base for your contour makeup, so make sure the foundation is blended smoothly.
Step 3: Apply Concealer
Concealer helps to brighten your face and cover any blemishes or imperfections. Apply concealer under your eyes to brighten the dark circles, around your nose, on any spots, and along the middle of your forehead, chin, and down the bridge of your nose. Use a shade slightly lighter than your skin tone for highlighting.
Blending is key here – use a damp makeup sponge or a brush to blend the concealer into your foundation, making sure there are no harsh lines.
Step 4: Choose Your Contour Product
Next, choose your contour product. You can use either a cream, powder, stick, or liquid contour product based on your preference. For beginners, cream or stick contours tend to be easier to blend, while powders work well for those who prefer a more matte finish.
Where to Apply Contour:
Contouring helps to create shadows and structure on your face. Here’s where to apply it:
- Under your cheekbones – To create the illusion of more sculpted cheeks, apply contour just below the cheekbones.
- Along your jawline – Contouring the jawline helps to define it and gives the face a more structured look.
- Sides of your forehead – Apply contour to the sides of your forehead to make it appear smaller or to create more depth.
- Nose contour – Contour the sides of your nose to make it look slimmer. Apply contour along the edges of the nose and blend well.
- Along the temples – For added dimension, contour along the temples to create a more oval face shape.
Step 5: Blend the Contour
Now comes the most important step: blending.
How to Blend Cream or Stick Contour:
- Use a Damp Makeup Sponge – A damp sponge is great for blending cream contours. It helps to soften the contour and gives a more natural finish. Use a bouncing motion to blend the contour into your skin.
- Blend Upwards – When blending contour, always blend upwards. This will help lift your features and give your face a more sculpted appearance.
- Blend into the Hairline – Make sure to blend your contour into your hairline to avoid any harsh lines.
- Blend the Jawline – Don’t forget to blend the contour along your jawline. This step ensures there is no harsh line where your makeup meets your skin.
How to Blend Powder Contour:
- Use a Contour Brush – Choose a small, dense brush for precise application. Tap off any excess powder to avoid applying too much product at once.
- Circular Motions – Blend using small, circular motions. This will help the contour to melt into the skin and create a more seamless transition.
- Buff the Contour – After the initial application, buff the contour by using long, sweeping motions to soften any harsh lines.
How to Blend Liquid Contour:
- Use a Damp Sponge or Brush – Liquid contour requires blending quickly to avoid streaks. A damp sponge or a synthetic brush works well to blend liquids seamlessly into the skin.
- Work in Sections – Apply the liquid contour in sections to prevent it from drying before you blend. This ensures you can smooth everything out without patchiness.
Step 6: Highlight the High Points
After blending your contour, it’s time to highlight the high points of your face. This is the part where you bring forward the areas you want to accentuate.
Apply a highlighter to the following areas:
- The tops of your cheekbones
- The bridge of your nose
- The center of your forehead (between your eyebrows)
- The chin
- Under the brow bone
Use a liquid, cream, or powder highlighter, depending on your preference. Apply the highlighter and blend it with a clean sponge or brush for a luminous finish.
Step 7: Set Your Makeup
To ensure your contour stays in place all day, you need to set it. Use a translucent setting powder to set your makeup and prevent it from moving. Apply the powder lightly, focusing on the areas where your makeup tends to crease, like under the eyes and around the nose.
If you used powder contour, you may skip this step, as the contour will already be set. However, if you used cream or liquid products, setting powder is essential to lock everything in place.
For a more dewy finish, use a setting spray to lock in your makeup. Hold the spray about 6–8 inches from your face and lightly mist your skin. This will help everything meld together for a flawless, long-lasting look.
Step 8: Blend and Buff Again
After setting your makeup, take a clean makeup sponge and lightly press it into your skin to ensure everything is blended. This is especially helpful for softening any powdery finish and for perfecting the blend between your contour, foundation, and highlighter.
Step 9: Finishing Touches
Finally, finish the look by adding blush to the apples of your cheeks. This will add warmth to your face and help balance the contour. You can also apply a bronzer for an extra sun-kissed look.
Tips for Perfectly Blended Contour Makeup
- Don’t Overload – It’s easier to add more product than it is to remove excess, so start with a small amount and build it up.
- Use the Right Tools – Use high-quality brushes and sponges for the best blending results. A makeup sponge is especially great for blending cream and liquid products.
- Blend, Blend, Blend – The key to a seamless contour is blending. Take your time to make sure there are no visible lines where the contour starts and ends.
- Know Your Face Shape – Understanding your face shape will help you contour the right areas. For example, oval faces can contour along the jawline, while square faces may need a bit of contour along the temples.
- Keep It Natural – For a more natural contour, opt for a contour shade that is just a few shades darker than your skin tone. Harsh contour lines can look unnatural, so always blend until the product melts into your skin.
Conclusion
Blending contour makeup doesn’t have to be intimidating. By following this step-by-step guide and practicing, you can achieve a sculpted and defined look that enhances your natural features. Remember to blend well, use the right products for your skin type, and take your time for a flawless finish. Whether you prefer a subtle contour or a bold look, blending is the secret to making your makeup appear polished and professional.
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