Contouring for Different Face Shapes: The Ultimate Guide

Puzzle pieces of different face shapes and skin tones coming together to receive a perfect contour.

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Contouring has become a popular makeup technique in recent years, but did you know that different face shapes require different contouring techniques? Contouring can help accentuate your unique features and create a more sculpted look, but it’s important to use the right techniques for your face shape. In this ultimate guide, we’ll show you the best contouring techniques for different face shapes to help you achieve a perfectly sculpted look that flatters your unique features. Did you know that having a contour pallet can help you navigate around colours? Here’s our recommendation.

Item Form:

Cream

Skin Type: 

All

Brand:

NYX

Finish Type:

Matte

The NYX Professional Makeup Conceal, Correct, Contour Palette is a versatile and high-quality product that doubles as an exceptional setting powder. This palette features a range of shades designed to conceal imperfections, correct discoloration, and contour the face. The finely milled powder texture allows for effortless blending and provides a smooth and airbrushed finish. As a setting powder, it helps to lock in your makeup, preventing shine and ensuring long-lasting wear. Achieve a flawless complexion and set your makeup to perfection with this multi-functional palette that caters to all your beauty needs.

  • This palette features 6 color correcting concealers expertly chosen to work together to conceal problem areas
  • Our palette helps conceal trouble spots and visibly correct discolorations; Light and medium camouflage imperfections, yellow and peach conceal dullness and dark circles, green covers redness, purple and pink brighten
  • Complete your makeup look with our full line of face products to aid in color correction and coverage from concealer, blush, bronzer, foundations and contouring to palettes and powders

Why Contouring for Different Face Shapes Matters?

Contouring is all about creating a more defined and sculpted look, but using the wrong techniques for your face shape can actually make your features look less flattering. By understanding your face shape and using the right contouring techniques, you can create a more balanced and symmetrical look that accentuates your best features.

Determine Your Face Shape

The first step to contouring for your face shape is to determine your face shape. The most common face shapes include round, square, heart-shaped, and oval. Use a mirror to study your face shape and determine which category you fall under.

Contouring for Round Faces

For those with round faces, contouring can help create a more defined jawline and cheekbones. Apply a contour shade to the hollows of your cheeks, temples, and jawline, and blend well to create a more defined look.

Contouring for Square Faces

Square faces benefit from contouring that softens the angles of the face. Apply a contour shade to the temples, jawline, and the sides of your forehead, and blend well to create a more rounded look. 

  • Different face shapes require different contouring techniques for a more balanced and symmetrical look.
  • Highlighting is just as important as contouring for a more defined and luminous look.
  •  Blending and setting your contour are crucial for achieving a natural-looking finish.

Contouring for Heart-Shaped Faces

Heart-shaped faces benefit from contouring that helps balance the forehead and jawline. Apply a contour shade to the sides of your forehead, temples, and jawline, and blend well to create a more balanced look.

Contouring for Oval Faces

Oval faces have a naturally balanced shape, but contouring can still help create a more defined look. Apply a contour shade to the hollows of your cheeks, temples, and jawline, and blend well to create a more defined look.

Highlighting Techniques for All Face Shapes

Highlighting is just as important as contouring when it comes to creating a more defined look. Apply a highlight shade to the high points of your face, such as the tops of your cheekbones, the bridge of your nose, and your cupid’s bow, to create a more luminous and defined look.

Don’t Forget to Blend

Blending is key to achieving a natural-looking contour. Use a blending brush or sponge to blend out any harsh lines and ensure a seamless finish.

Setting Your Contour

Setting your contour with a powder can help it last all day. Look for a translucent powder or a powder that matches your contour shade to set your contour in place.

Contouring for different face shapes can help you achieve a more defined and sculpted look that flatters your unique features. By understanding your face shape and using the right contouring techniques, you can create a more balanced and symmetrical look that accentuates your best features. Don’t forget to read our guide on cost-effective contouring products and remember to blend well, highlight, and set your contour to achieve a flawless finish.