Various makeup techniques (e.g., contouring, highlighting)

Makeup Techniques

Contouring: This technique uses a product two shades darker than the natural skin tone to enhance facial structure. Application should follow the natural shadows of the face - under the cheekbones, the sides of the nose, and the temples. Blend thoroughly to avoid harsh lines.
Highlighting: To add a sense of brightness and lift to features, use a highlighter. Apply to areas where light naturally hits - the tops of cheekbones, cupids bow, centre of the forehead, bridge of the nose and brow bones.
Blushing: Apply blush on the apples of the cheeks to add a natural-looking flush. Smile whilst applying to help identify these areas.
Baking: A setting technique wherein a heavy amount of translucent powder is applied to set the areas with concealer. The powder is left to sit on the face (to “bake”) for 5-10 minutes, then dusted away leaving a creaseless, flawless finish.
Bronzing: Bronzer is applied to the points on the face that would naturally tan e.g., forehead, bridge of the nose, cheekbones, and jawline. Remember to blend into the neck for a natural look.
Eye Shadow Application: Start with a neutral base over the entire lid, then add the main colour on the lid, and deeper shades in the crease. Blend well to avoid any obvious lines or edges.
Eyeliner Application: Apply to the upper or lower lash line to define the eyes. Smudge for a softer look or leave sharp for a more dramatic effect.
Mascara Application: Mascara should be the final step in eye makeup. Apply from the bottom of the lashes and wiggle the brush up to the tips - remember to coat the back of the lashes too.
Lipstick Application: Begin with lip liner (similar shade to lipstick) to outline the lips and prevent bleeding of lipstick. Apply lipstick with a brush for precision, starting from the centre outwards.
Setting the Makeup: A spritz of setting spray all over the face will help to set all layers of makeup and increase their longevity.

Key Makeup Techniques for Different Face Shapes

Oval: Use blush on the cheekbones and highlighter on the high planes of the face.
Round: Contour the face by applying bronzer around the perimeters of the face and cheeks.
Oblong/Rectangular: Soften the length of the face by applying bronzer along the hairline and jawline.
Heart: Contour along the sides of forehead and temples and use a light blush on chin to balance out the face.
Square: Contour the corners of the forehead and jawline. Apply blush to the apples of the cheeks and pull upwards towards the temples.
Triangle/Diamond: Highlight the centre of the forehead and under the eyes to balance out the face.

Remember that these techniques can be used together or individually, depending on the look desired. Always blend well to achieve a seamless, natural look.