Contouring can seem intimidating, especially if you’re new to makeup. However, with the right contour brush and a few simple techniques, achieving a flawless, sculpted look is entirely possible. Whether you’re aiming for a subtle, everyday look or a more defined evening look, this guide will take you through beginner-friendly techniques using a contour brush to add definition and depth to your face. With a focus on basic techniques, this article will show you how to make contouring easy, effective, and natural-looking.
Why Use a Contour Brush?
A contour brush is specifically designed to apply contouring products with precision and blend them seamlessly. Unlike other makeup brushes, a contour brush typically has an angled or rounded shape with dense bristles, allowing it to fit the curves of your face and apply product with control. Using a dedicated contour brush can help you achieve smooth, defined lines and make blending easier, giving you a natural, professional finish.
For a complete brush collection that includes all the tools needed for contouring and more, consider the Beauty Master Brush Set by Formless Beauty, which offers quality brushes to help you achieve any makeup look with ease.
Beginner Contour Brush Techniques: Step-by-Step Guide
- Prep Your Skin
Before you start contouring, make sure your skin is properly prepped. Cleanse, moisturize, and apply a primer if you use one. This step ensures that your contour product applies smoothly and blends well. Once prepped, apply your foundation as usual. Contour products will sit on top of this base, creating depth and definition.
- Choose the Right Contour Shade
For a natural look, select a contour shade that is one to two shades darker than your natural skin tone. Avoid shades that are too warm or too dark, as they can create a muddy or unnatural effect. A cool or neutral undertone is typically best for contouring, as it mimics the natural shadows on your face.
- Map Out Your Contour Areas
Understanding the areas to contour will help you achieve a sculpted look without overdoing it. The main areas to focus on are:
-
- The hollows of your cheeks: This helps define your cheekbones.
- The jawline: Contouring here adds structure to your face.
- The sides of your nose: A subtle contour here can make your nose appear slimmer.
- The hairline and temples: This helps frame your face and balance the contour.
Lightly dab your contour brush into the product, and tap off any excess. Remember, it’s easier to add more product than to remove it, so start with a light hand.
Technique 1: The Cheekbone Contour
One of the most popular uses of contouring is to enhance the cheekbones. Here’s how to achieve it:
- Locate the hollows of your cheeks by sucking in your cheeks or placing your contour brush at the top of your ear and angling it down towards the corner of your mouth.
- Gently swipe the brush with the contour product along the hollow, stopping halfway to your mouth. Avoid bringing the product too close to your mouth, as it can look harsh.
- Blend in small, circular motions to soften any lines and ensure the contour looks natural. A contour brush with soft bristles will help blend without disturbing your base makeup.
- Build intensity gradually if you desire a more defined look.
Technique 2: The Jawline Contour
A defined jawline adds structure and balance to your face. This technique is straightforward and effective for most face shapes.
- Lightly dip your contour brush into the product, and apply it along your jawline from just below your ear to the tip of your chin.
- Use small strokes to blend the contour downward along your neck. This creates a shadow under the jaw, making it appear sharper.
- Blend thoroughly to avoid any harsh lines, especially along the neck, to maintain a natural look.
Technique 3: The Nose Contour
Contouring the nose can add subtle definition or create the illusion of a slimmer bridge. Use a smaller contour brush or the edge of your regular contour brush for this area.
- Lightly coat the brush in contour product and tap off any excess.
- Apply the contour down each side of the bridge of your nose, keeping the lines close together for a narrower look.
- Blend the lines carefully to soften them, moving your brush in an up-and-down motion. A light hand is essential here; you want definition without creating visible lines.
- If you wish, add a small highlight down the center of your nose to further enhance the contoured shape.
Technique 4: The Hairline and Temple Contour
This technique is ideal for balancing the overall contour of your face, especially if you’re looking to create a sun-kissed, natural look.
- Lightly apply contour around your temples and along your hairline.
- Blend the product upward into your hairline to avoid any visible lines.
- This technique frames your face and gives the illusion of a smaller forehead, balancing the contour across your entire face.
Common Beginner Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
- Using Too Much Product: Start with a small amount of product and build up if needed. Contouring should look like a natural shadow, not a dark stripe.
- Improper Blending: Harsh lines can make contouring look fake and unpolished. Always blend in small, circular motions and consider using a beauty sponge to soften the edges.
- Using the Wrong Brush: The right brush is essential for a natural finish. A dedicated contour brush with an angled shape is ideal for following the curves of your face and blending effectively. The contour brush is designed for precision, making it a great choice for beginners.
- Applying Contour in the Wrong Places: Stick to the natural contours of your face. Applying contour in areas where shadows don’t naturally fall can look unnatural.
- Not Setting Cream Contour: If you use a cream contour, lightly set it with translucent powder to keep it in place throughout the day.
How to Choose the Right Contour Brush?
For beginners, having a quality contour brush can make a big difference in achieving a flawless look. Look for brushes with:
- An angled shape for easy application along the cheekbones and jawline.
- Soft but dense bristles that hold product well but are gentle on the skin.
- A comfortable handle for better control during application.
For a complete set that includes all the essentials, the Beauty Master Brush Set by Formless Beauty provides high-quality, versatile brushes that simplify the contouring process.
Final Tips for a Perfect Contour
- Blend, Blend, Blend: The most critical step in contouring is blending. Even with the right brush, spend extra time ensuring all edges are soft and seamless.
- Set Your Makeup: Once your contour is in place, set your makeup with a light dusting of translucent powder to help it stay in place throughout the day.
- Practice Makes Perfect: Contouring takes practice. Don’t worry if it doesn’t look perfect the first time—experiment with different amounts of product, blending techniques, and areas of application to find what works best for you.
With these beginner-friendly techniques and the right tools, you can achieve a polished, professional look every time. By focusing on technique, blending, and a light touch, you can take your contouring skills to the next level, even as a beginner. To find high-quality brushes and other beauty tools, check out the complete collection at Formless Beauty.