You Can Do... Contouring and Highlighting

Let's talk about contouring. Maybe you've heard of it before in relation to Kim Kardashian. I'm sure she's credited with the rise of this beauty trend. But if you're not fans of the Kardashian Klan, don't let that put you off using this technique. The beauty of contouring is that it helps you to reshape your face- no surgery required. You can make your nose appear more narrow, your forehead seem shorter and your jawline look less harsh, among other things. And it is a simple addition to your makeup routine.

Warning: you will become addicted to contouring. Simply because it is so awesome you'll never want to be without it.

Foundation is wonderful at eliminating variation in color on your face. The downside to this is that it reduces the definition of your face and flattens it out, especially in pictures. And this is why contouring is so helpful, it brings back definition to your features.

And what takes your contouring to the next level is the addition of highlighting. This will help give you a glowy look and will enhance the definition you've been working to achieve.

I know that some people are put off of this trend because they feel that the makeup is too obvious. That it doesn't look natural. But there are definitely ways to overcome this. For starters, a lighter application looks very natural. And this is usually how I wear mine. If this is your goal, stop at step 5 of this tutorial.

My contouring and highlighting product of choice (at the moment) is the NYX Wonder Stick. It's double ended, with one end having a stick of creamy contouring product and the other having a stick of creamy highlighting product. It's easily blended and easy to use. It's especially great when you want your contouring to be more subtle and natural.

When I want things a little more defined, like when I'm being photographed, I apply a bronzing powder and a highlighting powder over the NYX Wonder Stick. The key to a good contouring product is that it is more gray toned than orange toned. Gray toned will look more like a natural shadow. I use theBalm Bahama Mama bronzer and MAC's Iridescent Powder in Silver Dusk.

You don't have to have all the brushes I suggest here. Use what you have and/or what fits your budget. Same goes for all the beauty products.

Product list:
Rimmel Stay Matte Foundation
Real Techniques Expert Face Brush
NYX Wonder Stick
theBalm Bahama Mama Bronzer
Real Techniques Sculpting Brush
MAC Iridescent Powder in Silver Dusk
NYX HD Blush in Baby Doll
Real Techniques Blush Brush