Have you seen those makeup videos where faces magically transform? High cheekbones, a refined nose, a redefined jawline… And you’re wondering how to replicate these results without looking like a cubist painting? Look no further! This beginner’s guide to contouring is for you. No more failed attempts that end in disaster with overly visible brown lines on your face!
Understanding contouring: the basics before you start
Contouring isn’t just a passing fad popularized by the Kardashians. It’s a makeup technique that dates back to the 1500s , when theater actors used it to make their expressions visible even from the back row! Who knew?
The essence of contouring for beginners is simple: it’s about playing with light and shadow to sculpt your face. Just as a painter would use shades to add depth to a canvas. The beauty of this technique? It works for all face shapes and sizes.
But before you dive headfirst into your contouring palette , let’s take a moment to understand the basics:
- Darker areas create an illusion of receding
- The lighter areas attract the light and appear to move forward
- Blending is the key to successful contouring
A 2022 Harvard University study even showed that our brains are naturally wired to interpret contrasts of light and shadow as clues to depth. No wonder contouring is so effective!
The key steps of contouring for beginners illustrated on a half face to show the before/after
The essential tools to start your contouring adventure for beginners
Just as a craftsman needs his tools, a contouring beginner needs a few essentials. And no, you don’t need to empty your bank account at Sephora!
Essential products
- Contouring powder or cream : Darker than your natural skin tone by up to 2 shades. Choose a neutral or slightly cool shade to mimic a natural shadow.
- An illuminator or highlighter : For points of light.
- Suitable brushes : A dense angled brush for contouring and a softer, fuzzy brush for blending.
According to professional makeup artist Lisa Eldridge, “The choice of product depends on your skin type. Dry skin will prefer creamy formulas while oily skin will opt for powders.”
For beginners on a budget, elf offers excellent affordable options, widely recommended by beauty experts on TikTok.
The step-by-step contouring technique for beginners
Come on, let’s roll up our sleeves and get started! We promise, it’s easier than assembling a Swedish piece of furniture without instructions.
1. Prepare your canvas
Just as an artist doesn’t paint on a dirty canvas, apply your usual foundation first. Your contouring should always be applied to skin that’s already even.
2. Identify the areas to be sculpted
Every face is unique, but some principles apply universally. For effective contouring for beginners , focus on:
- The temples
- Under the cheekbones
- The jaw line
- The sides of the nose (if you want to slim it)
A simple trick? Make a fish-eye pout to find the natural hollow of your cheeks. That’s where your contouring product should go!
3. Contouring for beginners: lightness above all
The golden rule of contouring for beginners ? Start light! You can always add more product, but removing it… that’s another story.
Apply your contouring product by drawing thin lines or lightly tapping on strategic areas. For creams, preferably use your fingers or a damp sponge.
“The secret to natural contouring is to go gradually,” advises celebrity makeup artist Patrick Ta. “It’s better to do several light layers than one too intense.”
4. The Art of Blending: Blend Like Your Life Depends on It
This is the step that makes all the difference between a professional contour and a disaster that can be seen from miles away. Blend, blend, and blend again!
Use a clean, fluffy brush or a slightly damp beauty sponge to soften any lines. The ideal motion? Small circles or gentle back-and-forth strokes outward from the face.
5. Illuminate to complete the job
Contouring without highlighter is like a sandwich without bread: something essential is missing !
Apply your highlighter to:
- The top of the cheekbones
- The bridge of the nose
- Cupid’s bow (above the upper lip)
- The center of the forehead
- Under the eyebrows
A study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science found that adding strategic highlights can make your face look up to five years younger. Yet another reason to not neglect this step!
Eyeliner, the elegant finishing touch that perfectly completes your contouring for beginners
Common Contouring Mistakes for Beginners (and How to Avoid Them)
We often learn from our mistakes, but why not learn from mine? Here are the classic pitfalls that beginners fall into when it comes to contouring :
Not adapting beginner contouring to your face shape
Every face has different needs! A round face cannot be contoured like a square or oval face.
For example, for a round face, focus contouring under the cheekbones and on the temples to visually lengthen it. For a square face, soften the angles of the jaw.
Choosing a shade that is too dark or too orange
The number one mistake when contouring! A shade that’s too dark or too warm will create unnatural lines. Choose a shade that’s just a shade darker than your skin tone with a neutral or slightly gray undertone.
Neglecting lighting
Your contouring may look perfect in your bathroom, but completely overdone in broad daylight. Always test your makeup in different lights before heading out.
“Always do your makeup in the brightest light possible,” recommends beauty icon Bobbi Brown . “If it looks good there, it will look even better anywhere else.”
Contouring for beginners: adapt the technique to your daily life
Contouring isn’t just for red carpets! Here’s how to adapt it for different occasions:
Express version for everyday
No time to do a full contouring every morning? Focus only on your cheekbones and jawline with an easy-to-blend product.
Pro tip: Contouring sticks are perfect for quick makeup. Apply one stroke, blend with your fingertips, and off you go!
A slightly more defined evening version
For an evening or special event, take the time to apply all the steps and slightly intensify the contouring.
According to a Glamour Magazine survey of 500 professional makeup artists, 87% of them recommend applying contour before blush for a more natural result. A tip to keep in mind for your evenings out!
Refine Your Beginner Contouring Technique Over Time
As with any art form, practice makes perfect. Don’t wait for a special occasion to practice contouring! Try different techniques on the weekend or before removing your makeup at night.
“ Contouring for beginners is a journey, not a destination,” philosophizes Nam Vo, a makeup artist known for her “dewy dumpling” looks. “Every face tells a different story; you have to learn to read yours.”
Take photos of your attempts from different angles and lighting. You’ll be surprised how quickly your technique improves!
Conclusion: Contouring for beginners, a skill within your reach
Contouring isn’t just for professionals or influencers with a $200 ring light. It ‘s a technique anyone can master with a little patience and the right tools.
Remember: good contouring is barely noticeable. The goal isn’t to completely transform your face, but to enhance its natural features.
So, are you ready to get out your brushes and transform your beauty routine? The world of contouring for beginners awaits, and trust me, once you’ve mastered the art of playing with light and shadow, you’ll never want to live without it!
And you, what’s your biggest challenge with contouring? Which areas give you the most trouble? Share your experiences in the comments; I love exchanging tips with other beauty enthusiasts!
