Contouring is a makeup technique used to define and enhance the natural structure of your face. It can help highlight certain features and create a balanced look. However, the way you contour and highlight can vary depending on your face shape. Here’s a guide on how to contour and highlight for different face shapes.
Top 10 Contour Products For Different face shapes
1. Oval Face Shape
An oval face shape is well-proportioned, with the forehead slightly wider than the chin, and the cheekbones as the broadest part of the face.
How to Contour:
- Apply contour along the sides of the forehead to slightly narrow it.
- Sweep contour underneath the cheekbones, starting from the ear and stopping mid-cheek.
- Add a subtle contour along the jawline to enhance its definition.
Highlight:
- Apply highlighter to the center of the forehead, down the bridge of the nose, and on the tops of the cheekbones to enhance the naturally balanced features.
2. Round Face Shape
A round face has softer angles, with the cheeks being the widest part. The goal of contouring for this face shape is to create the illusion of more definition.
How to Contour:
- Apply contour along the sides of the forehead and around the temples to add more structure.
- Contour beneath the cheekbones in a diagonal line towards the mouth to create more angles.
- Add contour along the jawline to create a more defined edge.
Highlight:
- Focus highlighter on the center of the forehead, the chin, and the tops of the cheekbones to draw attention to the center of the face and create more balance.
3. Square Face Shape
A square face has a prominent jawline with an angular forehead. The goal is to soften these strong angles.
How to Contour:
- Contour along the sides of the forehead and around the temples to soften the width.
- Apply contour under the cheekbones to add definition without enhancing the angularity.
- Contour along the jawline to downplay the sharp angles and create a smoother transition.
Highlight:
- Highlight the center of the forehead, under the eyes, and on the tops of the cheekbones to soften the overall look.
4. Heart Face Shape
A heart-shaped face has a wider forehead and a narrower, pointed chin. The goal is to balance the width of the forehead with the narrowness of the chin.
How to Contour:
- Contour along the sides of the forehead and temples to minimize the width.
- Apply contour beneath the cheekbones and along the sides of the chin to create balance.
Highlight:
- Focus highlighter on the chin to soften its point, as well as on the tops of the cheekbones and the center of the forehead.
5. Long Face Shape
A long face shape is characterized by more length than width. The aim of contouring is to shorten the appearance of the face.
How to Contour:
- Apply contour along the hairline at the top of the forehead to make it appear shorter.
- Sweep contour under the cheekbones and along the jawline.
- Apply contour at the tip of the chin to reduce its length.
Highlight:
- Highlight across the cheeks and center of the forehead to bring width to the face.
6. Diamond Face Shape
A diamond-shaped face has a narrow forehead and chin, with wider cheekbones. The goal is to soften the width of the cheeks and balance the narrow areas.
How to Contour:
- Contour along the sides of the cheekbones to reduce their prominence.
- Apply contour on the sides of the forehead and along the jawline to balance the face.
Highlight:
- Highlight the forehead, chin, and the tops of the cheekbones to add balance and soften the angular features.
Final Tips:
- Blending: Always blend your contour well to avoid harsh lines and ensure a natural look.
- Product Choice: Use cream products for a dewy finish or powder for a matte look, depending on your skin type and preference.
Contouring is all about enhancing your unique features. Understanding your face shape is the first step to mastering the technique and creating a sculpted, balanced look.