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It’s safe to say many people want high cheekbones and a defined jawline, but if you’re not genetically blessed with these features, you can still achieve the look without going under the knife. All you have to do is fake it with a little makeup magic, aka contouring.
According to celebrity makeup artist and key makeup artist at the New York City Ballet Neil Scibelli, contouring is a makeup technique that brings out the natural contours of your facial structure by mimicking the shadows that would appear in your cheekbones, jawline and forehead. “Ultimately, contouring can give a more sculpted and chiseled look to the face,” Scibelli tells WWD.
To get that lifted look, he says to follow the “three-method” and put product where the sun would naturally create contours on your skin: across the forehead, right under the cheekbones and below the jawline. Celebrity makeup artist Brandy Allen adds that you’ll want to apply contour after foundation but before blush in your makeup routine and use soft lines, as harsher lines will be harder to blend in.
Contour sticks vs. other types of contouring products
Contour products include palettes, powder, liquid and cream stick formulas. Palettes contain multiple shades and oftentimes include highlighters as well. The main difference when comparing powder, liquid and stick contour products is texture and feel.
To find the best contour products for you, Scibelli suggests first assessing your skincare needs. “Do you have dry skin and need hydration in your products, or are you on the combo to oily side and like products that mattify skin?” he says. “If you’re looking for hydration, opt for ingredients like hyaluronic acid or skin-savvy oils like jojoba oil or shea butter, which are common in stick products and help bind the makeup to skin when it’s parched.” (Conversely, Scibelli explains that loose powder alternatives are great for oilier skin types, or to use for TV and stage makeup when performers may be working up a sweat).
Allen adds that contour sticks are easier to use and beginner-friendly. If you’re looking for a quick draw-and-blend option,...