2.25.14

 No one likes a flat-face Francis! Contouring can make a literal balloon look like a Kardashian.
Shall we start?

To prep, I wash my face, moisturize, apply my eye-makeup and a light coat of foundation.

1. Using a neutral concealer, I start on the inside of my face, and work my way out, beginning with highlighting the bridge of my nose and between the brows. I then apply the concealer to the underneath of my eyes in a triangular shape. Next, I highlight above my brows to define their shape, directly above my jawline, and the tip of my chin.
2. This is the part where you're supposed to look like an alien. Don't panic.
I like to use an ash (grey) based, dark concealer for my contouring. If its too warm, it can look muddy. I apply along the sides of my nose, making sure I don't leave much of the highlighted area to be shown. If the highlighted area is too wide, the nose will look larger instead. Next is the most crucial part. Find the natural dip below your cheekbone (or create your own!) and apply. It will look dark at first, but it will be blended! Continue the cheekbone application up through your hairline. I also like to continue this line to the sides of my chin, as I have a rounder face.

3. Blend by using a "blending egg" or a flat foundation brush. Regular foundation brushes will drag too much. You can pick up a blending egg at your local Sephora or Walgreen's.
I start on the nose and blend the highlighted areas by tapping them into my skin, and blend the dark areas with small, circular motions.
4. Lastly, I add blush with the same circular motions using a blush brush, applying it over my jawline and blending up a litte, as to create a slight gradient. For a more matte look, add a translucent powder over the top, or simply leave it gorgeous and dewy.

xoxo