Alternatively, Los Angeles-based makeup artist Shadi Malek recommends applying the product 'directly where you want it to be the most concentrated and blend outwards.' Regardless of how you choose to apply your contour, remember that less is always more.' For me, contouring is about subtly defining your natural features,' says Persico. For some subtle sculpting, consider warming the product up on the back of your hand before going in with a makeup brush or beauty sponge. In terms of application, you have two options. Now, back to the good stuff, a.k.a contour sticks. Whereas bronzers tend to be warmer-toned and often add a touch of shimmer to the skin on the highest points of the face, contour products lean more matte and cool-toned, and ideally one shade deeper than your bronzer in order to mimic natural shadows along your face shape. We interrupt this intro to bring you a quick Contouring 101 lesson. Per Gerstein, 'anything too densely pigmented or dry on texture will require more effort and precision.' Enter contour sticks, which, according to New York City-based makeup artist Suzy Gerstein, offer 'a quick and effective way to really enhance the facial features.' Contour sticks are relatively easy to work with since their creamy formulas are easy to blend out, which is key to achieving a natural finish. While contouring your face can seem intimidating, the right products can make a world of difference.
