Understanding the Basics of Contouring
Contouring is a skillful makeup technique that can add depth and dimension to visages, enhance facial features, and provide an overall sculpted appearance. By strategically applying dark and light shades, it's possible to create an illusion of a sharper nose, chiseled cheekbones, or a defined jawline. The ideal palette for this purpose should have at least two shades - one light and one dark. The darker shade is used for areas you want to recede or hide, while the lighter shade is applied to areas you want to illuminate and bring forward. Cream contour palettes are favored for their blendability and softer finish that often looks more natural than their powder counterparts.
Choosing the Right Cream Contour Palette
When picking the right cream contour palette, there are few key factors to consider. Firstly, your skin type. Cream contours often work well for dry to normal skin as they can provide additional hydration. Secondly, your skin tone. It is important that the shades in the palette complement your complexion. For fair skin tones, look for palettes with cooler undertones, while those with medium to darker skin tones should opt for palettes with warmer, richer hues. Another factor to consider is your level of expertise. Beginners may prefer smaller palettes that offer a guided approach to contouring, while those more comfortable with the technique might choose palettes with a wider range of shades for more versatility.
Preparing Your Skin for Contouring
For a flawless contour application, prepping the skin is vital. Begin by cleaning the skin thoroughly to remove any traces of dirt or previous makeup. Follow this up with a toner to balance the skin's pH levels and a moisturizer to hydrate your skin. Once your skin is fully moisturized, apply a primer. Primer smooths out the skin, reduces pored appearance, and provides a canvas for your makeup to adhere to, ensuring your contour and overall makeup last longer. To finish the preparation, apply a thin layer of foundation, ensuring full coverage, and a uniform base for contouring.
Applying the Cream Contour Correctly
The most common mistake made while contouring is overdoing it, leading to an unnatural look. Moderation is key. For beginners, it's best to follow the 'less is more' rule. Start by applying small amounts of contour and build up to your desired level of definition. Target areas are typically the hollows of your cheeks, the sides of your nose, your jawline, and the periphery of your forehead. Implement the darker tones there to add depth and dimension. The lighter shades should be applied to areas you wish to highlight, like the centre of your forehead, the bridge of your nose, your cheekbones, and the centre of your chin.
Blending Techniques for a Seamless Look
Blending is critical to achieve a natural, seamless contour. It bridges the gap between the darker and lighter tones, creating a gradated, soft look. Using a damp makeup sponge or a blending brush, blend the contour in small circular motions ensuring no harsh lines remain. Say no to rushing! Rushing may cause patchiness or unevenness. Blend the dark shades upward and the light shades downward to maintain the contour's structure and purpose. Remember, the goal is to make the contour lines invisible, merging seamlessly into your base makeup.
Finishing Touches for the Contoured Look
Upon satisfactory blending, it's beneficial to revisit your face with a quick inspection. Look for any spaces that might need a bit more blending or spots where the contour may have blurred too much, requiring reapplication. Set your makeup with a fine loose setting powder to ensure longevity and to stave off oiliness. For an enhanced, illuminating effect, a blendable highlighter applied to the high points of your face like your cheekbones and the bridge of your nose can make you glow! Finish with a setting spray to keep your makeup in place and you're ready to show off your beautifully contoured look.
Cleaning and Maintaining Your Cream Contour Palette
Looking after your cream contour palette is just as important as how you use it. Keep it clean and maintain its quality to ensure a smooth application every time. After each use, wipe the surface of the palette gently with a dry tissue to remove any excess product or dust. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to protect the formulation. Also, remember to clean your makeup tools regularly. Your blending brush or sponge can harbor bacteria, which might cause breakouts or other skin issues. Clean them using a gentle soap or a brush cleanser, and dry them thoroughly before their next use.
