Contouring has evolved into a pivotal makeup technique, gaining considerable attention when Kim Kardashian spotlighted the “baking” method to the world. This practice is more than just a trend; it’s a transformative approach that enables individuals to sculpt and define their features with strategic makeup application.
We understand the allure of mastering the art of contouring, particularly when it comes to refining the nose. Learning the nuances of this makeup trick can make a significant difference in one’s overall look, providing a newfound level of confidence in makeup artistry. Whether a novice or a seasoned makeup artist, embracing these methods can elevate one’s beauty routine to new heights.
Chapter Overview
How Contouring Your Nose Changes Your Look
By strategically applying shades of makeup, we create an illusion of shadow and light. Contouring the nose allows us to manipulate its appearance:
- Shadows: We use darker shades to add depth, making areas like the sides of the nose appear receded.
- Highlighting: A lighter shade or shimmer along the bridge of the nose and on the tip emphasizes height and structure.
- Contour Lines: Straight lines along the sides and a touch under the tip can give the impression of a more sculpted look.
- Matte vs. Shimmer: Matte products help create a natural shadow, while shimmer gives a radiant highlight.
Here’s the impact on different areas:
| Area | Effect |
|---|---|
| Sides | Darker shades slim the nose. |
| Bridge | Highlighting creates a lifted appearance. |
| Nostrils | Subtle shading can reduce width. |
| Nose Tip | Light application can make it appear more defined or shorter. |
| Bumps | Manipulating light and shadow can smooth out perceived imperfections. |
Our nose’s look is transformed by altering perceived dimensions, giving us a customized nose shape without surgery.
Important Notes for Contouring
Prepare Your Face
We understand that a flawless contour starts with perfect preparation. Always begin by applying an oil-free and mattifying primer, especially targeting areas prone to oiliness, such as the nose. This step ensures a suitable matte base, preventing slip and excess shine throughout the day.
| Step | Tool/ Product | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Cleansing | – | Clears the skin of impurities |
| Moisturizing | Oil-free moisturizer | Hydrates without adding shine |
| Priming | Mattifying primer | Creates a smooth, matte canvas |
Layer the Contour
Our technique involves strategic layering to help sculpt and define the nose, focusing on symmetry and dimension. Begin by creating shadows using a contour brush and then enhance them through layering, which adds depth and accentuates your nose’s shape.
| Order | Tool/ Product | Action |
|---|---|---|
| 1st | Contour brush | Define the sides |
| 2nd | Matte foundation | Layer to intensify |
| Final | Setting powder/spray | Set layers in place |
Blending
We cannot stress enough the significance of blending in creating a natural contour. Use a blending brush or a damp beauty blender and blend inward towards your nose’s center. This will narrow the appearance of your nose. Afterwards, a light application of foundation can be used to soften and integrate the contour seamlessly.
| Tool/ Product | Direction | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Blending brush | Inward | Narrows and refines nose shape |
| Foundation | Over blended area | Unifies and sets the contour |
Where to Start?
We advise that the most effective starting point is just below the brow, smoothly progressing downwards to the tip of the nose. Using this starting point ensures equal application on both sides, avoiding any asymmetry. Carry on this process until reaching the end of the nostrils for a well-proportioned contour.
| Starting Point | Tool/ Product | Method |
|---|---|---|
| Brow front | Contour brush | Ensures symmetry from top to tip |
| Tip of nose | Fluffy brush | For diffused and subtle edging |
4 Different Ways to Contour Your Nose
Contour to Thinner Nose
To achieve a slimmer nose appearance, we apply contour using these steps:
- Draw Lines: We gently draw two lines with an angled eyeshadow brush down each side of the nose, using a shade darker than our natural skin tone. Use products such as matte bronzer, darker foundation, or sculpting powder.
- Highlight: We use a highlighter to illuminate the central bridge of the nose. The highlight should be a sheer line using a color one or two shades lighter than our skin.
- Blend: To finalize, we blend the lines delicately using a blending sponge or a fluffy brush to ensure there are no apparent lines, only soft shadows.
Contour to Shorter Nose
For giving the nose a shorter appearance, we contour as follows:
- Darken Tip: Matte bronzer or sculpting powder is applied to the very tip of the nose, then blended with a soft blender brush or sponge.
- Halfway Highlight: We only highlight the bridge to halfway down the nose, creating the illusion of a shorter nose.
- Shading Sides: Optional shading down the sides, starting the lines at the tear ducts instead of the brow bone, can also thin the nose without elongating it.
Contour to Longer Nose
When wanting to elongate the appearance of the nose, we apply contour like this:
- Shade Contour Lines: Contour lines are shaded from the brow bone, using an angled brush, working straight down to the tip while following the natural curve.
- Full Highlight: We highlight fully from between the eyebrows, along the bridge, to the tip of the nose, keeping the lines parallel with the highest points of the brows.
Contour to Straight Nose
To straighten a crooked nose appearance, these are our contouring steps:
- Angled Lines: We begin with an angled brush to lay down straight lines at the sides of the nose using a contour product, creating a downward arrow shape.
- Blend Outward: With a fluffy shadow brush, we blend thoroughly, placing emphasis on the outside lines to define straightness.
- Center Highlight: A fine line of highlighting powder or brightening concealer is drawn in the center, blending extensively for a seamless highlight, and completing with a touch of concealer at the sides.
Tips to Draw Attention Away from the Nose
- Hair Styling Choices: We opt for haircuts that feature highlights, shifting focus away from the nose. A side part can visually minimize a prominent nose.
- Eye Make-up Techniques: We emphasize bold eye make-up. Consider elongating the eye with winged liner or applying false lashes for a dramatic effect.
- Strategic Face Makeup: We highlight cheekbones and define the jawline with contouring to create a balanced, natural look that doesn’t center on the nose.
Bullet Points:
- Hair highlights and side parts offer diversion
- Dramatic eye makeup keeps eyes the focal point
- Contour cheekbones and jawline to reframe the face