How do you contour naturally without looking scary?

The key is blending, blending, and blending again. Use cream or stick contour products in shades close to your natural skin tone, apply them to the hollows of your cheeks and along the jawline, then blend thoroughly with a brush or sponge. Building the product gradually rather than applying heavy amounts at once helps you achieve a sophisticated, natural-looking result.

What are the best contour products for on-the-go touch-ups?

Contour and highlighter sticks are ideal for portable touch-ups because they're compact, easy to apply, and don't require additional brushes. Products like Charlotte Tilbury's Contour Stick paired with a dedicated contour brush give you precise control and blendability, making them perfect for maintaining sculpted skin throughout a summer lunch or day out.

How do you blend contour for a smooth finish?

Use a soft contour brush or blending sponge to sweep the contour product in circular motions across the area where you've applied it. The goal is to create a gradient that seamlessly transitions from the contoured areas to your natural skin tone. A light hand and patience with the blending process prevents harsh lines and keeps your makeup looking polished.

Can you contour fair or light skin tones?

Yes, absolutely. The technique works for all skin tones-the key is choosing the right shade. Select contour products only 1-2 shades deeper than your natural complexion, which creates subtle definition without looking muddy. Pair your contour with a brightening concealer and highlighter to enhance the sculpted effect whilst maintaining a fresh, natural appearance.

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Woman applying contour and highlighter makeup at a restaurant table for sculpted summer skin

Beauty Bites: Sophisticated and Sculpted Summer Skin

Sigourney Cantelo goes to Nour in Surry Hills to show you how to do a sculpted contour on the go.

Beauticate Editorial — Editorial Team

Last updated July 20261 min read

In this Beauty Bites segment we head over to Nour, a chic Surry Hills haunt with superb Lebanese food. In this video, Sigourney talks us through the secrets to contouring in a natural, non-scary way. From easy-to-use highlight and contour sticks to quick tips to add a a smoky eye and a nude lip, it's just the look for a stylish summer lunch. Just don't forget to blend, blend, blend.

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