How to Contour Your Cheekbones

Have you always longed for a slender face with defined cheekbones but, instead, ended up with chipmunk cheeks? The good news is a full face tends to age better than a thinner face, but with a little clever use of makeup, you can create the illusion of more defined facial contours even if your cheekbones are not your best feature. Here's how to contour cheeks using makeup.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Select your Supplies.
   
   To create the look of contoured cheeks and more defined cheekbones, you'll need a bronzer that's two shades darker than your natural skin color. You'll also need a shade of blush that's flattering to your skin tone and is complementary to your bronzer. Avoid choosing sharply contrasting colors since the contrast will be too obvious when applied to your face. Other supplies needed are two angled blush brushes.

2. Prep your Face.
   
   Before starting to contour your cheeks, prepare your face by cleansing and applying moisturizer and sunscreen. Follow up with your usual base makeup, making sure you've blended thoroughly.

3. Apply the Bronzer.
   
   Using the angled blush brush, apply a small amount of your chosen bronzer to the surface of the brush. Starting close to your ear, lightly apply the bronzer to the area underneath your natural cheekbone extending it in the direction of your mouth. Continue to extend the color down until you reach the middle of your cheek, following the natural curve of your cheekbone. Be sure to blend the bronzer well. You don't want a harsh line to detract from your new sculpted face.

4. Apply Blush.
   
   After contouring with the bronzer, use your separate angled brush to lightly apply blush to the apples of your cheeks. Blend the blush well to avoid a line of demarcation.

5. Optional Highlighting.
   
   If you want to further enhance your cheekbones, apply highlighter in a sweeping motion to the area above your cheekbones starting at the outer edge of the eye and extending back towards the ear. Be sure to blend well, particularly if you're using a shade that has any shimmer which can look harsh under a bright light.

6. Add the Finishing Touches.
   
   Complete your look by applying a light coat of loose powder. Double check to be sure that everything is well blended.