Contouring

Using cool-toned dark shades to create shadows and recede features (cheekbones, jaw).

Contouring is a structural makeup technique that uses cool-toned, matte products to mimic the natural shadows of the face. By strategically receding specific areas like the hollows of the cheeks, jawline, and perimeter of the forehead, this method dramatically enhances and defines the underlying bone structure. Originally popularized by stage and drag performers, it has evolved into a sophisticated staple for achieving a chiseled, glamorous complexion.

To create Contouring, strategically apply a cool-toned matte product to the natural hollows of your cheekbones, the perimeter of your forehead, and your jawline. Blend the cheek and forehead shadows upwards to lift the face, while softly sweeping the jawline contour downward. Lock the sculpt in place with setting powder.

Face/Base Sharp Glamorous Universal

~12 min 4 steps 6 products

The Kit

Cool-Toned Matte Cream Contour
Angled Contour Brush
Matte Contour Powder
Translucent Setting Powder
Makeup Sponge
Fluffy Powder Brush

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How to Create Contouring

Map the Shadows

Locate the hollows of your cheekbones, the perimeter of your forehead, and your jawline. Lightly dab a cool-toned matte cream contour onto these areas to build natural depth.
Blend Contour Upwards

Using an angled contour brush, buff the cheek and forehead product using upward and outward sweeping motions. This technique lifts the facial features and prevents the shadows from dragging the face down.
Sculpt the Jawline

Blend the contour placed along the jawline straight down towards your neck with the same brush. This creates a sharp, seamless shadow that defines the bone structure without leaving a visible stripe.
Set and Sharpen

Lock the cream in place with a matte contour powder, then press translucent setting powder directly under the cheek contour using a makeup sponge. Dust off the translucent powder with a fluffy powder brush after a few minutes for a sharp, glamorous finish.

Pro Tips

Always choose a contour shade with cool, taupe, or grayish undertones rather than warm orange hues, as true shadows cast a cool tone on the skin.
To avoid muddying your complexion and dragging the face downward, never blend your cheek contour further inward than the outer corner of your eye.
Customize your placement based on your facial architecture; for example, round faces benefit from steeper cheekbone contouring, while long faces look best with a more horizontal placement to add width.

Common Questions

What does Contouring look like?

Contouring creates the illusion of a more sculpted, chiseled bone structure by adding depth to the face. When done correctly, it looks like natural shadows rather than visible lines of makeup.

What products and tools do I need for Contouring?

You will need a cool-toned matte cream or powder contour, an angled contour brush for precise application, and a fluffy brush for blending. A translucent setting powder and makeup sponge are also highly recommended for sharpening the edges.

Is Contouring good for beginners?

Yes, though it requires some practice to master the blending and placement for your unique bone structure. Beginners should start with forgiving cream formulas that melt easily into the skin before progressing to heavily pigmented powders.

What is the difference between contouring and bronzing?

Contouring uses cool, grayish or taupe tones to create shadows and recede facial features, mimicking true depth. Bronzing uses warm tones to mimic a sun-kissed glow and add warmth to the high points of the face.

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