Why we love it: Think shapewear for your face, minus the effort. HAUS Labs’ Precision Sculpt Contour Stick is one of Shani Cohen’s (Glamour’s beauty commerce writer) favourites, and it’s easy to see why. The slim, precise tip makes sculpting your cheekbones and nose a breeze, while the creamy formula blends into a natural, skin-like finish. There are nine shades to choose from, too, with a good mix of undertones. And it’s not just about the makeup – the formula contains grape extract, tea rose stem cells and suberin extract, which help smooth and soften the look of skin.
Shani’s review: “I first tried HAUS Labs a few months ago when I did a full face using the brand’s products for my honest HAUS Labs review, and now I genuinely don’t know how I ever lived without it. I mean, the Triclone Foundation is next level – if you haven’t tried it yet, I’d 100% recommend. While I don’t contour every single day, this is the stick I reach for most when I’m after a little extra definition and sculpting. It’s so easy to use, and I love how creamy and blendable it is while still giving my cheekbones, nose and anywhere else I want to define that lovely sculpted look. The formula feels comfortable and non-drying, too, so I don’t have to rush to blend it out like I would with a liquid contour.”
Can you use bronzer to contour?
Although bronzers do add dimension and colour to your face, they’re not to be confused with contour products. Priscilla Ono, global makeup artist at Fenty Beauty, shared: “The biggest difference is that bronzing products typically have a warmer undertone, while contouring products have a cooler undertone.” This is because bronzer creates the look of a golden tan, while contour creates the look of shadows.
And while contour is applied to where shadows would naturally fall (hollows of cheeks, jawline, edges of your forehead and sides of your nose), bronzers are applied where the sun would naturally hit your face and leave that bronzy glow. “This includes the high points of the cheeks, temples and bridge of the nose,” Priscilla said.
Why contour in the first place?
If you’re wondering whether contouring is strictly necessary, it’s not – but it can help add definition to your face and makeup. “Contouring can be especially effective for creating a more chiselled jawline and nose, and higher cheekbones. I actually use it quite often in a softer way,” shares celebrity MUA Harold James, whose clients include Laura Harrier, Rosie Huntington Whiteley and Whitney Peak.
“I always contour my clients. I think it’s really important to add a subtle sculpt to the skin for dimension,” top celebrity makeup artist, Diane Buzetta told GLAMOUR. Meanwhile, pro celebrity makeup artist, Shelby Smith agrees. “I contour my clients to bring dimension to their face by building and enhancing their bone structure,” she says.
What’s the best way to contour?
Contour is different from blusher and bronzer. Essentially, it creates a shadow. It should be precisely placed in areas where you would naturally see shadows created on your face – so think the hollows of cheeks, jawline, edges of your forehead and sides of your nose.
“The best way to contour is to choose a contour product that is a few shades darker than your natural skin tone and has a matte finish to mimic shadows,” advises Harold. “Start by applying the contour product along the hollows of the cheeks, temples, jawline, and sides of the nose using a contour brush or makeup sponge. Blend the contour product well using circular motions or tapping motions to avoid harsh lines and ensure a seamless transition between the contour and the rest of the makeup,” he adds.
As for when to apply it, that depends on what finish you would like. Traditionally, it was mainly scribbled on top of foundation, but it’s increasingly popular to apply it under foundation or blended into bare skin. “I learned from Mary Phillips, so I’m an under-painter always and forever,” says Shelby. “I like to contour first and then buff the foundation over it. This process looks the most natural because it gets rid of any harsh lines,” she says. “I like to underpaint light layers of contour under the foundation and set with powder,” agrees Diane.
For liquid and creamy formulas, we recommend reaching for a makeup sponge or dabbing it in with your fingers, whereas powdered compacts and palettes work best with makeup brushes.
Is it better to contour with powder or cream?
It all comes down to your own preferences. While some makeup artists advise layering cream products with powder formulas, at the end of the day, it depends on the kind of look and finish that you’re trying to achieve. And lucky for us, when it comes to versatility, today’s contour products are nothing short of impressive.
If you’re after a more glowy and natural look, you can definitely try using cream or shimmer-infused liquid products without following up with a powder. However, if you’re after a more blurring finish, powder contour may be the best option. It’s also worth noting that if you’re a new to the world of contour, you might be better off using a cream contour stick, as such formulas are generally considered more beginner-friendly. Plus, due to their hydrating natural creamy and liquid formulas also pair extremely well with mature skin.
Then there’s the longevity element. If you want a long-wearing result for a special event, it might be a good idea to consider layering both kind of formulas. Start with a thin layer of cream, then set your face with a pressed powder compact (or a powder contour kit).
Which brands have the best contour sticks?
Since makeup isn’t exactly a “one-size-fits-all” category, there isn’t one exact product or brand that singlehandedly outshines every other option. That said, there’s definitely a handful that have earned their spot in the contouring hall of fame. Based on our testing and expertise, we’d recommend considering brands like Westman Atelier, Makeup By Mario, Charlotte Tilbury, Victoria Beckham Beauty, Anastasia Beverly Hills and Rare Beauty.