To effectively apply contour and highlight, it’s essential to understand your face shape and the specific areas to target. Here’s a concise guide on where to apply these products based on various face shapes.
General Contouring and Highlighting Areas
Contouring is typically applied to create shadows and define features, while highlighting is used to accentuate areas of the face.
Contour Areas
- Hollows of the cheeks: Apply contour just below the cheekbone.
- Jawline: Contour along the jawline to add definition.
- Forehead: Contour along the hairline to reduce forehead size.
- Nose: Contour along the sides for a slimmer appearance.
- Temples: Apply contour here to narrow the forehead.
Highlight Areas
- Cheekbones: Apply highlighter on top of the cheekbones for a radiant look.
- Bridge of the nose: Highlighting this area adds length.
- Forehead center: A small amount can brighten the face.
- Chin and Cupid’s bow: Adds dimension and fullness.
Application by Face Shape
Round Face
- Contour: Apply along the sides of the forehead, under the cheekbones, and along the jawline to elongate the face.
- Highlight: Use on the center of the forehead, chin, and tops of cheekbones.
Oval Face
- Contour: Focus on hollows of the cheeks, hairline, and jawline for subtle definition.
- Highlight: Apply on cheekbones, brow bone, and bridge of the nose.
Square Face
- Contour: Emphasize corners of the forehead, under cheekbones, and along jawline to soften angles.
- Highlight: Focus on cheekbones and center of forehead.
Heart-Shaped Face
- Contour: Apply to temples, under cheekbones, and just below the chin.
- Highlight: Use on the center of the forehead and tops of cheekbones.
Diamond Face
- Contour: Apply along temples and under cheekbones to balance width.
- Highlight: Focus on center of forehead and chin.
Oblong/Rectangular Face
- Contour: Work along hairline and under cheekbones; blend down towards jawline.
- Highlight: Use on forehead center and tops of cheekbones.
By following these guidelines tailored to your face shape, you can achieve a more sculpted appearance that enhances your natural features.
Mistakes to avoid When contouring and highlighting:
When contouring and highlighting, avoiding common mistakes is crucial for achieving a natural and polished look
- Using Shades That Are Too Dark
- Overdoing Highlighter
- Mismatching Formulas
- Ignoring Face Shape
- Applying Too Much Product
- Neglecting Blending
- Focusing on One Area
- Choosing the Wrong Tools
