5 Minute Contouring Tutorial for Beginners Guide | Carsha

5 Minute Contouring Tutorial for Beginners Guide

Table of Contents

What is Contouring?

Contouring is a makeup technique that uses light and shadow to define and enhance your facial features. It involves applying a darker shade to areas you want to recede (like hollows of cheeks, jawline, and sides of the nose) and a lighter shade to areas you want to highlight (like cheekbones, bridge of the nose, and brow bone). Whether you're aiming for a subtle, natural look or a bold, sculpted appearance, mastering contouring can elevate your makeup game.

Essential Contouring Products

Before diving into the tutorial, let’s talk about the tools and products you’ll need:

Step-by-Step Contouring Guide

Step 1: Prep Your Skin

Start with a clean, moisturized face. Apply your foundation as usual and set it with a light layer of powder. This creates a smooth base for contouring.

Step 2: Map Your Face

Use a darker shade from your contour palette to map out the areas you want to define. Typically, this includes:

  • The hollows of your cheeks
  • Along your jawline
  • The sides of your nose
  • Your hairline (optional)

Step 3: Blend, Blend, Blend

Use a damp Real Techniques Ultimate Sponge to blend the product seamlessly into your skin. Avoid harsh lines by blending in circular motions.

Step 4: Highlight

Apply a lighter shade to the high points of your face, like the bridge of your nose, under your eyes, and your brow bone. Blend gently with the same sponge.

Step 5: Set Your Look

Finish with a setting spray to lock your contouring in place.

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Common Contouring Mistakes to Avoid

  • Using the Wrong Shade: Choose a contour shade that’s only 1-2 shades darker than your skin tone.
  • Over-Blending: Blend thoroughly but avoid overdoing it, as it can muddy the look.
  • Ignoring Skin Type: Cream products work best for dry skin, while powder is ideal for oily skin.

Quick Contouring Tips for Beginners

  • Start with a light hand and build up the product gradually.
  • Use a blending sponge for a natural finish.
  • Practice makes perfect—experiment to find what works best for your face shape.
@v. Watch this TikTok video! Watch now

 

Contouring Hacks from TikTok Experts

Korean Blush Contouring

Korean makeup techniques focus on soft, natural looks. Try blending your blush into your contouring for a seamless transition. This creates a youthful, radiant effect.

@Layallure Skin Care/Makeup Watch this TikTok video! Watch now

 

Nose Contouring Magic

Nose contouring can transform your entire look. Use a thin brush or the Hourglass Vanish Foundation Stick to create precise lines on the sides of your nose, then blend softly for a natural finish.

The “3” Technique

An easy way to contour is by following the shape of the number 3. Apply contour in a curved motion along the temples, hollows of the cheeks, and jawline. This technique adds definition while remaining effortless to apply.

Conclusion

With these tips and techniques, you’ll be able to master contouring and achieve a flawless, sculpted look. Whether you’re a beginner or a makeup enthusiast, practice and the right products will help you perfect this essential makeu

Rmk Shade & Glow Face Palette
Rmk Shade & Glow Face Palette
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