The Magic of Contouring

Today I am going to talk about an amazing way you can use makeup to fake gorgeous skin. Flip through any magazine, see any celebrity on the red carpet and they all look flawless; what are they doing that makes their skin look so freakishly magical? Well, let me tell you. It's all in the way their makeup is applied, relying heavily on the use of contouring as well as Highlighting. Here's a great example of a makeup look that has employed these techniques:

And another:

See how their skin looks as though it's glowing from the inside out? It's all achieved by using bronzer and Highlighter to contour and sculpt their faces.

Bronzer should be used in the areas you want to recede, like the hollows underneath your cheekbones, your temples and the sides and top of your forehead to create a sharper, slimmer face. You can also use it along your jaw for a slimmer jawline. Highlighter should be used on the areas you want to bring more focus too, like the top apples of your cheeks to create a plump glow, as well as your brow bone and inner corners of your eyes to bring more light into your face and make you look more awake. Also try applying it to your cupid's bow to create the illusion of fuller lips.

Be sure to find the right bronzer. Blondes should use a lighter bronzer than a brunette would use, and be sure you find a bronzer that's the right tone for your skin tone. Certain bronzers have more golden tones, while others are more rosy or even more coral. Also, determine whether you want a matte bronzer or a shimmery bronzer.

With Highlighter, most basic ones are flattering on all skin tones, but certain tones do work to illuminate certain complexions more. Women with dull complexions would look beautiful with a pink-toned highlighter, and those with super pale skin may want to try out pale highlighters that resemble moonlight as opposed to gold. For the most part though, I do believe that gold is beautiful on most skin tones.

So guys, remember to just take your time and try out different products to see which ones suit you best. And I also suggest you watch a couple makeup tutorials on contouring if you're not familiar with the proper way to contour. You don't want to look like an oomph loompa after all!

Here's a great tutorial on how to contour!

Have fun!