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Can you contour with lipstick?

Published in Makeup Techniques 2 mins read

Yes, you can absolutely contour with lipstick, especially if it's a brown shade suitable for creating shadows.

Using Lipstick for Contouring

Lipstick can serve as a convenient alternative to traditional contour products. Here’s how to make it work:

  • Choosing the Right Shade: According to the video titled "How to Contour using a Lipstick", a brown lipstick can be perfect for contouring because it mimics natural shadows.
  • Placement: The video demonstrates drawing a line just below the cheekbone, starting from the ear, which is a common placement for contouring.
  • Blending: After application, it’s crucial to blend the lipstick properly to avoid harsh lines.

Step-by-Step Guide

Here's a simple guide to contouring using lipstick:

  1. Select a Matte Brown Lipstick: This will give the most natural shadow effect.
  2. Locate Your Cheekbone: Feel for the bone structure under your cheek.
  3. Apply the Lipstick: Draw a line with the lipstick starting from your ear towards the corner of your mouth, just beneath the cheekbone.
  4. Blend: Use a brush, sponge, or your fingers to blend the lipstick upwards and outwards, ensuring no harsh lines.
  5. Build as Needed: Add more product for a more pronounced contour, if desired, and continue blending.
  6. Finish: Apply the rest of your makeup as usual.

Advantages of Using Lipstick

  • Convenience: You often have lipstick on hand.
  • Versatility: Lipstick can do double duty as a cream contour.
  • Cost-Effective: You may not need to buy a separate contour product.

Potential Drawbacks

  • Texture: Lipstick may be too creamy or oily for some skin types, making blending difficult.
  • Shade Range: It can be hard to find the perfect neutral brown in lipstick format.
  • Coverage: Lipsticks can sometimes be too pigmented or not pigmented enough, leading to patchy or inadequate contour.
Aspect Details
Ideal Lipstick Matte, brown
Application Below the cheekbone, starting from the ear
Blending Crucial for a natural effect
Advantages Convenient, versatile, cost-effective
Potential Drawbacks Texture issues, limited shade ranges, potentially too much or too little coverage