In the makeup art world, mastering the interplay of light and shadows is key to achieving a symmetrical and sculpted appearance. By strategically using highlighter and contour products, you can enhance your natural features, create dimension, and achieve a “snatched” look that exudes confidence and elegance.
Understanding Light and Shadows
Before diving into makeup application techniques, it’s essential to understand how light and shadows interact with the face. Light naturally highlights certain areas of the face, such as the tops of the cheekbones, brow bones, and the bridge of the nose, while shadows create depth and definition in areas like the hollows of the cheeks, temples, and jawline.
By strategically placing highlighter and contour products, you can manipulate light and shadows to enhance your facial structure and create the illusion of symmetry and balance. This technique is called “contouring and highlighting” or “playing with light and shadows.”
Techniques for a Symmetrical, Snatched Look
Contouring
Begin by selecting a contour product a few shades darker than your natural skin tone. Using a contour brush or angled makeup brush, apply the product to the hollows of your cheeks, temples, jawline, and sides of the nose. Blend the contour product seamlessly into the skin using a blending brush or makeup sponge, ensuring no harsh lines or edges.
Highlighting
Next, choose a highlighter product that complements your skin tone and has a subtle shimmer or sheen. Apply the highlighter to the high points of your face where light naturally hits, such as the tops of the cheekbones, brow bones, and the bridge of the nose. Blend the highlighter gently using a brush or fingertips for a soft, luminous glow.
Blending
The key to achieving a seamless and natural-looking makeup look is blending. Take the time to blend the contour and highlight products thoroughly into the skin, ensuring a smooth transition between light and shadows. Use circular or tapping motions with a blending brush or makeup sponge to blend the products seamlessly for a flawless finish.
Symmetry
Pay close attention to symmetry when applying contour and highlight products to ensure a balanced and harmonious appearance. Use your natural bone structure as a guide and aim to create symmetry on both sides of the face. Step back and assess your makeup application from different angles to make any necessary adjustments for optimal symmetry.
