If you have a round face, you may want to contour your makeup to enhance definition and create a more chiseled appearance. Contouring can help elongate your face and emphasize your best features. In this step-by-step guide, we'll show you how to contour your makeup for a round face in detail.
Identify Your Face Shape: Round Faces
Before you start contouring your face, you need to identify your face shape. Round faces are typically characterized by having wider cheeks and a softer jawline that have little angular definition. By using makeup to create shadow and light, you can create the illusion of a more angular face.
One way to create the illusion of a more angular face is to use a darker shade of foundation or contour powder to create a shadow effect on the sides of your forehead and under your cheekbones. Then, use a lighter shade of foundation or highlighter on the center of your forehead, down the bridge of your nose, and on the apples of your cheeks to create a highlighted effect.
It's important to blend the makeup well to avoid any harsh lines and to create a natural-looking effect. You can also use a fluffy brush to blend the makeup and create a seamless transition between the shadow and highlight areas.
Understanding the Basics of Contouring
Contouring is the art of using makeup to sculpt and define your face by creating shadows and highlights. The principle of contouring is to use darker shades to recede areas of your face that you want to appear smaller, and lighter shades to highlight the areas that you want to bring forward. This technique is used to enhance and create dimension to your face shape.
When it comes to contouring, it's important to choose the right shades for your skin tone. Using shades that are too dark or too light can result in an unnatural and unflattering look. It's also important to blend the shades well to avoid harsh lines and achieve a seamless finish. Practice and experimentation are key to mastering the art of contouring.
Preparing Your Skin for Contouring
Before starting the contouring process, you must ensure that your skin is clean, moisturized, and free of any makeup or residue. The moisturizer will prevent the contouring makeup from appearing dry on your face. Additionally, while contouring, you should use a primer with a hydrating feature to create a smooth base for even makeup application.
It is also important to consider your skin type when preparing for contouring. If you have oily skin, use a mattifying moisturizer to prevent excess shine. For dry skin, use a heavier moisturizer to prevent flakiness. If you have sensitive skin, opt for fragrance-free and hypoallergenic products to avoid any irritation.
Choosing the Right Products for Contouring a Round Face
When it comes to contouring a round face, it's essential to choose the right products. Opt for a matte finish contour shade in a cream or powder formula, which is one or two shades darker than your natural skin tone. You can also use concealer that is one or two shades lighter than your skin tone, or a highlighter powder that complements your skin tone.
It's important to note that the texture of the products you use can also make a difference in how well they blend and look on a round face. Cream products tend to blend more seamlessly and give a more natural finish, while powder products can be more buildable and offer a more dramatic effect. Experiment with both to see which works best for you and your desired look.
Step 1: Apply Foundation and Concealer
Start by applying your foundation as usual, then use a concealer to cover any blemishes or dark spots. A concealer that is one or two shades lighter than your skin tone can be used to highlight under your eyes, the center of the forehead, and along the bridge of your nose.
After applying your concealer, use a damp beauty blender or makeup sponge to blend it in seamlessly with your foundation. This will create a smooth and even base for the rest of your makeup.
If you have particularly oily skin, you may want to set your foundation and concealer with a translucent powder. This will help to control shine and keep your makeup in place throughout the day. Simply dust a small amount of powder over your face using a fluffy brush, focusing on the T-zone and any other areas that tend to get oily.
Step 2: Determine Your Contouring Points
The next step is to determine the points where you want to contour your face. Typically, these areas include the temples, jawline, cheekbones, and sides of the nose. You can use a makeup brush or your finger to locate these areas. Alternatively, you can make a face shape analysis by using a mirror which can help you to choose the spots where you want to create depth or length.
It's important to keep in mind that the contouring points may vary depending on your face shape. For example, if you have a round face, you may want to contour your forehead and chin to create a more oval shape. On the other hand, if you have a square face, you may want to focus on contouring your jawline to soften the angles.
When choosing a contouring product, it's also important to consider your skin tone. If you have fair skin, you may want to choose a cooler-toned contour shade, while those with deeper skin tones may opt for warmer tones. It's always a good idea to test the product on your skin before purchasing to ensure it matches your skin tone and blends seamlessly.
Step 3: Apply the Contour Shade to Your Cheeks
Take an angled brush with a good grip to apply the contour shade on the apple of your cheeks. Move the brush up along your cheekbone in a slightly circular motion and make sure that it is blended with your skin. Be sure to use light strokes and blend it evenly. For a more dramatic effect, extend the contour shade slightly down towards your jawline, creating the illusion of a more elongated face.
It is important to choose the right shade of contour for your skin tone. If you have fair skin, choose a contour shade that is one or two shades darker than your natural skin tone. If you have a medium or olive skin tone, choose a contour shade that is slightly warmer and deeper in color. For those with darker skin tones, a contour shade that is rich and deep in color will work best. Remember to always blend your contour shade well to avoid any harsh lines or patches.
Step 4: Blend the Contour Shade into Your Skin
It's essential to make sure your contour shade is blended well to avoid any harsh lines or patches of color on your skin. Use a blending brush, preferably one with soft bristles, or clean up any extra product using a clean, dry sponge to make the contour mode even.
When blending your contour shade, it's important to consider the lighting you'll be in. If you'll be in natural light, make sure to blend your contour in natural light as well to avoid any surprises when you step outside. If you'll be in artificial light, blend your contour in that lighting to ensure it looks seamless in that environment.
Another tip for blending your contour shade is to start with a light hand and build up the intensity gradually. This will help you avoid applying too much product and having to start over. Remember, it's easier to add more product than to take it away!
Step 5: Highlight Your Best Features
Once you've applied the contour shade, it's time for you to highlight your best features. Look for the highest point of your cheekbone and apply the highlighter on that area. Using a highlighter brush, blend the highlighter into your skin for a natural look.
When choosing a highlighter, it's important to consider your skin tone. If you have fair skin, go for a highlighter with a pearl or champagne undertone. For medium skin tones, a gold or rose gold highlighter works best. If you have a deeper skin tone, opt for a highlighter with a bronze or copper undertone. Remember, the goal is to enhance your natural features, not overpower them.
Step 6: Blend the Highlighter into Your Skin
After applying the highlighter, it's time to blend it into your skin using a blending brush or a dry sponge. This will help create a natural-looking effect that will make your skin glow.
When blending the highlighter, make sure to focus on the areas where you applied it. Use gentle circular motions to blend it in and avoid harsh lines. You can also use your fingers to blend the highlighter, but make sure to wash your hands thoroughly before doing so.
If you feel like you've applied too much highlighter, you can tone it down by using a clean sponge or brush to blend it out. You can also use a translucent powder to set the highlighter and make it look more natural. Remember, less is more when it comes to highlighter, so start with a small amount and build it up gradually until you achieve your desired look.
Finish with Setting Spray or Powder for Long-Lasting Results
Once you've finished contouring your face, it's time to finish off with setting spray or setting powder. This will help your makeup last longer and stay in place throughout the day without budging or smudging. If you're using a setting spray, make sure to hold it a few inches away from your face so that it sprays gently.
It's important to note that setting spray and setting powder serve different purposes. Setting spray is ideal for those with dry skin as it helps to hydrate and lock in moisture. On the other hand, setting powder is perfect for those with oily skin as it helps to absorb excess oil and prevent shine. It's important to choose the right product for your skin type to ensure the best results.
Common Mistakes to Avoid While Contouring a Round Face
While contouring your face, it's essential to avoid common mistakes. Some of the mistakes include using too much product, not blending well enough, or applying makeup that isn't suited for your skin tone. Therefore, you need to pay attention to the amount of the product you apply, and ensure that it is blended in even layers throughout your face using suitable brushes and sponges.
Another common mistake to avoid while contouring a round face is using the wrong shade of contour. It's important to choose a shade that is only one or two shades darker than your natural skin tone. Using a shade that is too dark can make your face look muddy and unnatural. Additionally, it's important to apply the contour in the right areas of your face. For a round face, you should apply the contour in the hollows of your cheeks, along your jawline, and on the sides of your forehead.
Lastly, it's important to consider the lighting when contouring your face. Natural lighting is the best for contouring as it shows the true colors and shadows on your face. If you're contouring for a special event or photoshoot, make sure to test your makeup in different lighting to ensure that it looks natural and flattering in all settings.
Tips and Tricks for Perfectly Contoured Makeup
Lastly, here are some tips and tricks to achieve perfectly contoured makeup on a round face. Apply your contour shade in thin layers, and gradually build up to the desired effect. When highlighting, choose a shade that complements your skin tone, and don't overdo it. Finally, don't forget to blend, blend, blend until the makeup appears perfect and natural.
By following these steps, you can contour your makeup for a round face to bring out your best features. Contouring makeup can be daunting, but with practice, patience, and the right tools, it's achievable. With the perfect contouring technique, you'll be able to create a more defined and structured look that enhances your natural look, rather than covering it up.
Another important tip to keep in mind when contouring your makeup is to consider the lighting in which you'll be wearing it. If you'll be in natural light, use a lighter hand with your contouring products, as natural light can be unforgiving and highlight any harsh lines or uneven blending. On the other hand, if you'll be in dimmer lighting, you can be a bit more heavy-handed with your contouring to ensure that your features are still defined and visible.
It's also important to remember that contouring isn't a one-size-fits-all technique. What works for one person's face shape may not work for another's. Experiment with different techniques and products to find what works best for you and your unique features. And don't be afraid to ask for help or advice from a makeup artist or beauty expert if you're struggling to achieve the look you want.
