How to Contour Your Face in 6 Steps: Easy Contouring Tutorial

But here's the thing, when done right—and not for gimmick—contouring really can help enhance the gorgeous features you've already got. The biggest problem is, that even with the endless amount of info out there on the topic, figuring out where to begin isn't any easier. We're here to help you navigate the world of contouring with a clear guide that teaches you how to contour your face step by step.

1. Use the Right Shade and Texture

Choosing the right shade and texture is key to contouring. Your contouring product “shouldn’t be more than two colors deeper than your complexion,” Sir John says. If your skin is light to deep, go for taupes and grayish browns. Darker skin tones should try warmer, cognac colors, according to Stiles.

2. Don’t Contour Everything

You can sculpt your entire face, but you don't have to. A little contouring can go a long way. Focus on your cheeks, forehead, nose and jawline. Using the contouring product of your choice, try your cheek hollows: Start from the middle of your ear and move toward the corner of your mouth, stopping midcheek. Shade additional features based on your goals, whether it’s a less pronounced forehead (apply along your hairline and temples), a more sculpted jawline (buff under chin), or a slimmer nose (blend soft parallel lines on either side). It won't magically change the shape of your face, but it will add some definition.

3. Layer Your Product

"Invisible contouring" is Sir John’s signature layering technique. “You’re elevating the bone structure without a ton of product,” he says. Begin with a light application, then add color until you get a subtly carved-out look. “You should get compliments on your features, not the product,” he says.

4. Avoid Products with Shimmer

When you think about it, the reason is obvious: “You’re [trying to add] a sense of depth with matte taupes or cool browns that absorb light,” Sir John says. Shimmer reflects light, so bronzers with flecks in it will do the opposite of the desired effect. Save the shimmer for your highlighter.

5. Balance It All Out with Highlighter and Blush

Here's where placement is everything: Concentrate a shimmery gold highlighter (choose one that's the same texture—cream, liquid, or powder—as your contour) underneath your eyes and on top of your cheekbones to "brighten the complexion and add just enough sheen," says Martin. If you're not exactly sure where this is, use his foolproof trick: Smile with your mouth closed and apply highlighter on the area where your cheeks puff up. Then diffuse the formula up slightly toward your eyes.

6. Compliment Your Contour with Eye Makeup

For a natural look, simply sweep the same formula you used to hollow out your cheeks across your entire eyelids with a medium shadow brush to enhance the natural contours of your eyes; work a bit more into the crease for extra drama. Fill in your brows, curl your lashes, and apply a coat of lengthening mascara.If you want to rock bold eye makeup, Martin has a pro tip — start with your eye makeup before your contouring. By doing your eyes first, you won't mess up your foundation and contour when cleaning up any fallout.

PRO TIP: IF YOU'RE PLANNING TO PAIR YOUR CONTOUR WITH A BOLD OR SMOKEY EYE, START WITH YOUR EYE MAKEUP — THAT WAY, ANY EYE MAKEUP SPILLAGE CAN BE EASILY WIPED AWAY WITHOUT MESSING UP A CAREFULLY CRAFTED CONTOUR.