The Power of Makeup - Why I Contour (& you can, too)!

I recently had a friend come to me and ask me what products I use for an "easy contour," which made me laugh a little because I honestly think contour may be the easiest thing you can do to instantly transform your face to a slimmer, more chiseled version of yourself.  But there's a misconception that contouring is difficult because people can get so over the top with it! The hardest part of contouring is learning your face shape - don't worry, I've included a fool-proof guide to help you figure that out below - but once you do, it's incredible simple.

So what is contouring? In case you haven't heard of this trend (surprising, but possible), it is essentially using a taupe/brown shade to add the illusion of shadow.  Therefore, creating higher cheek bones, a shortened forehead, fuller lips, and/or a skinnier nose. Now, I personally only contour my cheeks because my face is very round so any help I can get to look like I have cheekbones, I take FULL advantage of.

How did you lose 10 pounds in 5 seconds?! Contour, baby!

Next, the important thing to know about contour shades is that they should be cool-toned because if they have a warm undertone, you will look orange. It will not create a convincing or natural looking contour! But don't worry, I have taken the guess work out of that as well! My favorite products to contour with are:

Kat Von D Shade & Light Palette ($49) - An absolute staple in my makeup collection; I personally prefer the first shade on the bottom row for contour , it looks best on my fair skin.

Benefit's Hoola Bronzer ($29) - A beautiful, neutral, matte bronzer and contour. Who doesn't love a good two-for-one?!

Physician's Formula Butter Bronzer ($13) - the best drugstore bronzer / contour on the market. Hands down.  Oh, and good news: it's currently on sale for $8.99 at Ulta.  You can read more about this holy grail product HERE.

Using the correct tools are also key. So here are my two favorite contour brushes:

Morphe R2 Pro Tapered Powder Brush - big, fluffy, and ultra-soft; it easily diffuses product right where you want it (around the outer perimeters of your face).

Morphe M523 Tapered Powder Brush - a little smaller than its fat cousin, this brush allows more precision.

^ PS - You can find ENDLESS coupon codes for 10% off by searching your favorite YouTubers (ie. Jaclyn Hill's is "JACATTACK")... You're welcome! 😉

** I hope this review was helpful! Are there any contour products you just can't live without that I didn't mention?! Share them with me in the comments, I love trying new makeup! XOXO **