How to Apply Contour Makeup

Contour makeup changes the entire look of your face. Facial features are viewed as a combination of light and shadows. By applying a dark tone, you create a false shadow, making it appear as if there is depth. The opposite is true for lighter tones; they act as highlights and trick the eye into thinking they stand out.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Foundation makeup in different tones
• Powered blush or bronzer
• Eye shadow
• Lip liner
• Lipstick

1. Put on your foundation makeup. This is your base coat of neutral tone makeup that evens out any blemishes or imperfections. Smooth it on with a damp cosmetic sponge and allow it to set for a few minutes. Gently buff your entire face to remove the excess before applying the contour makeup.

2. Choose darker-toned foundation makeup or powdered blush. In the areas you want to appear deeper, such as just under your cheekbone, apply a little bit of the darker makeup or blush. Working under a bright light, apply the deep tone slowly upwards and outwards. In sunlight, too much makeup can make your face appear harsh.

3. Highlight features on your face that you want to stand out. Just under your eyebrow is a popular area. With a lighter foundation tone or eye shadow, apply evenly, making sure to smooth out the edges for a natural look. Apply highlighter blush above the deep color on cheekbones for a sculpted look.

4. Fool the eye by applying contour makeup to diminish the appearance of a large nose. Carefully study your nose in the mirror. Notice how the part that extends the most is the lightest in tone. Carefully apply a darker tone to the most prominent part and dab on a lighter shade on the sides to minimize the natural contrast.

5. Plump up your lips by applying the contour effect with lip liner and lipstick. Full lips are in demand and you can contour yours to look that way. Using a lip liner just a shade darker than the color of your lipstick, carefully line your lips, directly on their natural line. Fill in the outline with your lipstick.

Tips & Warnings

• After applying your contour makeup, gently blot on translucent face powder to "set" your artwork.

[CGiustra]

on 12/1/2008 This is a good article with nice descriptions.