Contouring has been the “not-so-secret” makeup artist trick for decades (no it wasn’t actually The Kardashians who invented contouring!) and has been historically used to add structure back into your face or body.
But did you know you can contour with another makeup bag staple? Concealer!
Contouring is the method of adding depth and definition to your face (and body!).
It can enhance features or create the illusion of different shapes. Depending on the products you use and the intensity, you can create a very natural soft contour, or go all out – it’s completely down to personal preference.
Did you know? Historically, contouring originated from the drag community decades ago!
Why Contour with Concealer?
Contouring with concealer is the perfect method to create a natural-looking finish.
There are countless contouring products on the market, from powders to sticks. But we believe you should try out the contouring with concealer method!
Follow these 3 simple steps to learn how to contour your face with concealer!
Step 1 – Conceal with Your Normal Shade
After applying your base, pick up your skin-true shade and pinpoint any areas you would like to conceal.
Use this shade of concealer to cover up any blemishes or neutralize redness. We also recommend a small amount under the eyes to help cover any dark circles.
Apply and blend with your ring finger, brush or beauty sponge.
Step 2 – Add Dimension with a Deeper Shade
Time to add dimension!
Select a deeper shade to your skin tone, but still matching your undertone.
But ‘what is my skin undertone?’ we hear you ask. If you’re not sure, take this test! Look at your wrist veins under natural light:
They appear green: you have warm undertones
They appear blue/purple: you have cool undertones
They appear a mix of both: you have neutral undertones
With this deeper shade, apply just under your cheekbones, on your temple and jawline. Then, simply blend blend blend, keeping the product in the desired areas.
Expert Tip: For more subtle contour makeup, you can apply another thin layer of foundation. This will create the appearance of a natural shadow rather than more obvious contour.
Step 3 – Highlight with A Lighter Shade
Lastly, it’s time to highlight!
Pick a shade or two lighter than your true match shade. Then, apply under the eyes, on top of your cheekbones, down the bridge of your nose, around the mouth and chin, and on your forehead. Any areas that would naturally catch the sun, pop that lighter shade!
This again helps to create more structure, giving the illusion that the face is more lifted.
How to Contour Your Nose
Want to know how to contour your nose? This often depends on your nose shape, but as a rule of thumb, apply the deeper shade of concealer down the sides of your nose and blend inwards to create the appearance of a narrower nose.
And there you have it – see it’s not as scary as it looks! Have you tried contouring with concealer? Let us know your thoughts on Insta by tagging @makeuprevolution.