“Contour is a staple in the wonder world,” Fenty Beauty Global Makeup Artist Priscilla Ono tells ESSENCE. “It’s a method that defines and sculpts the face by utilizing light and dark shades to intensify, create, and enhance.” After foundation, contour is an important solution to add dimension to your makeup look. Nonetheless, “not everyone has the identical face shape,” Ono says. Learning one of the best sculpting techniques for yours is the important thing to giving yourself a face lift, versus walking outside with harsh lines.

Although contour “is just not a one-size-fits all approach,” less is definitely more with this makeup step. From finding shades to enrich your skin tone, to mixing well and avoiding over-contouring, following Ono’s do’s and don’ts can take your look from flat to fierce in only a number of swipes.  

Below, Ono walks us through her secret to defining and sculpting the face.

Apply contour after foundation

“After foundation, take the contour and apply it on to the areas of the face you would like defined. I’ll normally start by lifting the cheekbones, then go around to the temples to define the face, after which add a bit of under the jawline and chin.”

“My favorite product to contour with is the Fenty Beauty Match Stix Contour Skinstick. I prefer it since the product glides onto the face so effortlessly, and the easy-to-use stick format is ideal for a targeted application. The creamy formula can also be super easy to mix and stays put without creasing or caking.” 

Make sure that to properly mix

To mix you should utilize a shaping brush, concealer brush, and even your fingertips. “You possibly can even contour the perimeters and suggestions of your nose, bring it into your hairline, and more. It’s truly like art– fiddling with light and shadows to create shapes,” she says. “Sometimes I’ll use a sponge since it’s less time-consuming than a brush, and it is less complicated to mix.”

What to avoid 

“You need to avoid using a shade that is just too dark or warm on your natural skin tone. It’s also necessary to do not forget that less is more and to contour only as needed. You wish to concentrate on a more natural lift and definition, slightly than a harsh line. Mixing is essential! Also, avoid over contouring. Only contour the areas that need it. Not everyone has the identical face shape, so this is just not a one-size-fits-all approach. Just ask yourself what areas you ought to define,” she says.

“For instance, I even have a small brow, so I skip contouring this area. One other thing to notice is that it is best to avoid using the identical shade to contour your face and nose. I wish to use a cooler, more subtle ‘bone tone.’”