The art of contouring has taken the world of beauty by storm, allowing makeup enthusiasts to redefine their features with just a paintbrush and some makeup. If done correctly, contouring can give you those sharp cheekbones, streamline your nose, and define your jawline, leaving you looking like a real-life Kardashian. The trick is to know which shades to select based on your skin tone; individuals with lighter skin should opt for contouring shades that are 1-2 shades darker than their foundation, while those with darker skin should choose shades that are 2-3 shades lighter.
The key to achieving a seemingly natural contour is blending, blending, and more blending! Keep in mind that you are not actually creating new features, but merely enhancing and drawing attention to what you already have. Start with a small amount of product and slowly build up intensity. Always remember to blend upwards when contouring the cheeks to give the illusion of a lifted face. Invest in a good quality blending brush because trust me; it's going to be your best friend during this process.
Lastly, don't forget to balance out the face by also contouring your forehead and jawline. If you have a large forehead, apply a darker shade around the outer edge to make it appear smaller. If you have a double chin or a less-defined jawline, contour around the area to create shadows that will visually reduce fullness. The art of contouring certainly requires some practice, but with a little patience and a lot of blending, you can master it with style. Remember, makeup is a form of self-expression, so there are no set rules. Don't be afraid to experiment and have fun with it.