Contouring, a technique previously reserved for runway models and fancy photo shoots, is now becoming part of many girls’ daily routines — thanks in part to Kylie Jenner and the Instagram makeup artists who share her same love for the chiseled look. So what is it, exactly? “Contouring is giving shape to an area of the face and enhancing the facial structure through makeup.”
How to contour your face with makeup
Makeup artists use different methods to contour the face; I prefer to use powders after I’ve applied foundation, whereas some will use a cream coverage under or over the base. Follow my tips on how to contour your face to help you achieve the look you want. Contouring is all about creating shadow and light to alter the shape of the face, maybe to give the illusion of higher cheekbones, a slimmer face or shorten the nose. Different face shapes need different contouring or shaping, some will need more highlighting while others will use more contouring to help create the shape you want. The first thing to decide is what is your face shape, then be guided by this picture as to where to contour, where to highlight or maybe just use blusher.
These are the best contouring palettes that you can use as a beginner:
1. L’Oréal Paris Cosmetics Infallible Pro Contour Palette
Make it simple, make it snappy. This duo-tone contour palette from L’Oréal Paris maps out the perfect contour in two steps. Guaranteeing the ideal sculpture will only take 30 seconds, the compact even features an applicator brush so you can have it all on the go.
PRICE: Rs. 1300
2. CoverGirl Trublend Contour Palette
CoverGirl’s contour pigments were made creamy for easy, breezy application. Designed by celebrity makeup artist Pat McGrath, the triple-shade showcase was made for a light, medium, and dark skin tones to highlight, contour and bronze to perfection.
Especially recommended for Dry skin, It stays for long and adds a glow to your face.
PRICE: Rs. 600
PRICE: Rs. 600
3. Maybelline New York Facestudio Master Contour Kit
Got no space in your bag to carry makeup? But also can’t go out without it?
The class is in session! Maybelline’s master kit is teaching us how to contour like a professional, for less. The miniature compact is excellent for travel, equipped with three color shades and mini applicator brush. The easy-to-blend powders look almost natural, so you’ll be left thinking maybe she is born with it (but it’s probably Maybelline).
PRICE: Rs. 1200
PRICE: Rs. 1200
4. NYX Highlight & Contour Pro Palette
What’s pro about this palette? It’s refillable with a never-ending supply of sculpting powders. Made customizable so you can find your perfect shades, this compacted wardrobe fits eight single pans you can swap out for accommodating shades once the season — and your skin tone changes.
PRICE: Rs. 2000
5. Makeup Revolution London Ultra Sculpt & Contour Kit
The complete contouring and highlighting palette is here! The ULTRA CONTOUR PALETTE has 8 powders for perfect contouring and sculpting. Including 8 brand NEW shades for contour and shaping, with an additional 2 of our favorite merged baked highlighters for illumination.
PRICE: Rs. 600