Basic Contouring Principle
Darker shades (contour) optically minimize and recede into background. Lighter shades (highlight) come forward and enlarge. With correct placement, you create the illusion of a different face shape.
What do you need?
Basic products for contouring:
Contour product (2-3 shades darker than skin)
Highlighter (1-2 shades lighter)
Blending brush or sponge
Optional: bronzer and blush
Contouring by Face Shape
Each face shape requires different contour and highlight placement.
Signs: Ideal proportions. Forehead slightly wider than chin, length 1.5x width.
Care: Just gentle cheekbone enhancement. No major correction needed.
Signs: Width and length similar. Full cheeks, less defined jawline.
Care: Contour on sides of forehead, under cheekbones, along jawline. Slims and elongates.
Signs: Prominent jawline, straight lines. Forehead and jaw similarly wide.
Care: Contour at corners of forehead and jaw. Softens sharp angles.
Signs: Wide forehead, narrow chin. Prominent cheekbones.
Care: Contour on sides of forehead. Highlight on chin to balance.
Signs: Length significantly greater than width. High forehead or long chin.
Care: Contour on forehead at hairline and on chin. Highlight on sides to widen.
Contouring Products
Choose based on skin type and desired effect.
✓ Cream Products
More natural look, easier blending. Ideal for dry skin and beginners. Apply before powder.
ℹ Powder Products
Longer wear, matte finish. Suitable for oily skin. Apply after powder.
✓ Contour Shade
Choose gray-brown (taupe) shades, not orange. They should mimic natural shadow.
⚠ Highlighter
For daytime, choose subtle, satin highlighter. Save intense glitter for evening.
Step-by-Step Contouring
Basic technique for everyday:
Apply foundation as usual
Contour after applying foundation and concealer.
Apply contour
Line under cheekbones (from ear toward mouth, but don't go past pupil).
Add contour to other areas
Along sides of nose, on forehead at hairline, under jaw as needed.
Apply highlighter
On top of cheekbones, bridge of nose, center of forehead, cupid's bow.
Blend thoroughly
Use sponge or brush. No harsh lines should be visible.
Set with powder or spray
Extends wear and melts layers together.
Recommended Contouring Products
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Orgasm Blush
Iconic blushCult peachy-pink blush with golden shimmer. Suitable for all skin tones.
Ambient Lighting Blush
Luxury blushInnovative blush with illuminating technology. Creates a natural, radiant look.
Rosy Glow Blush
Color-reviving blushUnique blush that reacts to skin pH to create an individual shade.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Bronzer adds warm, sun-kissed color (applied where sun hits). Contour creates shadow (cooler tone).
Yes, but for daytime choose a softer version. Dramatic contouring is better for evening or photos.
Two thin lines on sides from brow to tip. Highlighter on bridge. Blend thoroughly.
For contour, angled or small fluffy brush. For highlighter, fan brush or small round.
Contouring Products
Choose contours and highlighters from our reviews.
