Do You Contour Before Foundation? The Ultimate Guide to Mastering Your Makeup Routine
When it comes to makeup, there are a multitude of techniques and techniques to choose from. Two of the most popular and essential steps in creating a flawless, polished look are contouring and applying foundation. But, the age-old question remains: Do you contour before foundation or after? In this article, we’ll delve into the details to help you understand the process and provide you with the guidance to make the right choice for your skin type and needs.
Understanding the Fundamentals of Contouring and Foundation
Before we dive into the main question, let’s clarify the basics of contouring and foundation:
- Contouring is the process of using a darker shade to create the illusion of defined facial features, such as cheekbones, nose, and jawline. It’s typically achieved by applying a product (e.g., bronzer, powder, or cream) to specific areas of the face.
- Foundation is a liquid, cream, or powder product used to even out the skin tone and provide a base for the rest of the makeup look.
The Debate: Contour Before or After Foundation?
As with most makeup debates, there are strong opinions on both sides of the contouring-before-foundation spectrum. Some believe that applying foundation first provides a uniform base for contouring, while others swear that contouring before foundation allows for a more natural-looking finish. Here, we’ll weigh the pros and cons of each approach:
**Contouring Before Foundation: The Pros and Cons
Pros:
• More precise contouring: Applying contouring products to bare skin can result in a more accurate definition of facial features, as the product can be applied directly to the areas that need it most.
• Better blending: Contouring before foundation can help create a seamless blend between the contouring products and the rest of the makeup look.
Cons:
• Product settling: Foundation can settle into the skin, filling in pores and creating an uneven surface for contouring.
• Inconsistent application: Without a uniform base, the contouring product may not be evenly applied, leading to an inconsistent finish.
**Contouring After Foundation: The Pros and Cons
Pros:
• Evens out the skin tone: Applying foundation first ensures a uniform base, which can help balance out any areas of unevenness in the skin tone.
• Smoother blending: Foundation can act as a primer, allowing for smoother blending of the contouring product.
Cons:
• Less precise contouring: Applying contouring products to foundation can lead to less precise definition, as the foundation may alter the natural shape of the facial features.
• Extra product buildup: Using multiple products can lead to an excessive buildup on the skin, which can be difficult to blend and may accentuate pores.
The Verdict: When to Contour Before Foundation, and When to Contour After
Ultimately, the decision to contour before or after foundation depends on your skin type, tone, and personal preferences. Here’s a general guide to help you decide:
| Skin Type | Contour Before or After Foundation? |
|---|---|
| Oily skin | Contour before foundation, as oily skin tends to be more porous and may benefit from a more precise application of contouring products. |
| Dry or sensitive skin | Contour after foundation, as these skin types may benefit from additional moisture and could be more prone to settling or caking, making it difficult to blend contouring products. |
| Combination skin | It’s a tie! Consider contouring before foundation for specific areas (e.g., cheekbones, nose, jawline), and then apply foundation to provide a uniform base. |
Additional Tips and Tricks to Keep in Mind:
• Blend, blend, blend! Regardless of whether you contour before or after foundation, make sure to blend, blend, blend! This will help create a seamless finish and prevent any harsh lines or demarcations.
• Use a light hand: When contouring, use a light hand and build up gradually. You can always add more product, but it’s harder to remove excess product once it’s set.
• Choose the right products: Select products that complement your skin tone and type. For example, if you have cool undertones, look for products with pink or blue undertones, and vice versa.
Conclusion: Contouring Before or After Foundation – The Bottom Line
Ultimately, the decision to contour before or after foundation depends on your unique skin type, tone, and personal preferences. By understanding the pros and cons of each approach, you can make an informed decision that works best for you. Remember to blend, blend, blend, and choose the right products for your skin. With practice and patience, you’ll master the art of contouring and foundation to achieve a flawless, radiant look that enhances your natural beauty.