Nowadays, Instagram is flooded with makeup tips and tricks. To contour the face, one of them is using eyeshadow. Can you use eyeshadow as contour?
The answer is that you can contour with eyeshadow. In fact, a lot of make-up artists use eyeshadow to contour in a way that looks natural.
Do you want to know how to contour your face with eyeshadow? Continue reading to learn the simplest tips!
Can You Use Eyeshadow as a Contour?
The short answer is yes, you can use eyeshadow as a contour. Unexpected, yes, but there’s more to it than that.
Indeed, eyeshadow can be employed as a contour in certain circumstances, mainly due to these reasons:
- Versatility: Eyeshadows come in a variety of colors, making it easy to find one that complements your skin tone and undertones.
- Convenience: Using eyeshadow as a contour can free up space in your makeup bag if you’re traveling or constantly on the go.
- Cost-effective: Using eyeshadow can prevent you from purchasing a product you won’t use frequently if you’re experimenting with contouring or don’t contour frequently.
- Creativity: Using makeup is a great way to express yourself. By all means, go ahead and contour with eyeshadow if you feel like it!
Pros and Cons of Using Eyeshadow as Contour
Indeed, using eyeshadow as a contour can be a convenient and quick beauty hack.
But it also has its own unique set of benefits and difficulties. Let’s take a detailed look at them in the table below:
| Pros of Using Eyeshadow as a Contour | Cons of Using Eyeshadow as a Contour |
| Convenient in a makeup emergency | Eyeshadows may have shimmer or glitter, which can look unnatural |
| Can be a temporary solution | Eyeshadows may have different textures and finishes than contours |
| Wide range of eyeshadow shades available | Eyeshadows may have different textures and finishes than contours |
| Cost-effective if you already have eyeshadows | Eyeshadows may not have the ideal undertones for contouring |
| Offers creativity and experimentation | Eyeshadows may not have the long-lasting or matte finish of contour |
Always keep in mind that what works for one person may not work for another.
In order to avoid damaging your skin, it’s important to test this beauty tip carefully.
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What Type of Eyeshadow Should I Use for Contouring?
Choosing the right eyeshadow type for contouring depends on your skin type and personal preferences. Let’s talk about the four main categories: liquid, cream, powder, and gel.
Powder Eyeshadow
This kind of eyeshadow is the most popular and is renowned for being simple to apply and blend.
A great matte finish for contouring on oily skin can be achieved with powder eyeshadow. Always choose a color that goes well with your skin tone.
Cream Eyeshadow
Cream eyeshadows have a smooth blending ability and a rich, pigmented appearance.
They can be a little challenging for contouring though because they might not stay put as long. Cream eyeshadows can give your contour a hint of dewiness if you have dry skin.
Gel Eyeshadow
Frequently packaged in pots, gel eyeshadows have a thick consistency. Despite not having as many color options as powders or creams, they can be used for contouring because they are simple to blend.
Liquid Eyeshadow
These have a long wear time and are highly pigmented, but they can be difficult to control when applying. If you’re an expert in makeup, you might want to experiment with liquid eyeshadow for contouring, but be aware that there will be some learning involved.
Any type you select should be matte and appropriate for your skin type, keep in mind.
How to Use Eyeshadow as a Contour?
Using the eyeshadow as a contour requires you to be specific with your color choices and work carefully to come up with the right results. Let us start with the application:
- Prepare your base and let it set on the face just as you do
- Now pick up the eyeshadow pallet (without shimmer) and pick up the appropriate color for contour
- Use a medium broad brush and draw the contour lines on your face with the help of a selected shade
- Use the brush to now blend it on your face. There is no need to use the blending puff because you are using a powder base contour on the face
If your base prevents you from using a powder contour, you can easily convert your eyeshadow to a liquid contour.
Water, rubbing alcohol, or makeup remover may be required for the task.
- Some of the eyeshadow powder should be added to a mixing makeup plate along with some rubbing alcohol or water to thin it out. Make sure the paste is not too thin and has a good consistency.
- Now, apply the contour with your brush and quickly blend it with a blending brush or puff. Verify that none of the liquids used in the mixing cause any reactions on your skin.
- Allow the blended contour to sit for a while before proceeding with the final steps of the makeup application.
Tips and Tricks for Using Eyeshadow as a Contour
When using eyeshadow as a contour, a few tips and tricks can make the process smoother and the outcome more pleasing:
- Blend, Blend, Blend: Well-blended makeup is essential for a natural-looking contour. To avoid having any harsh lines, use a good blending brush or a beauty sponge.
- Use the Right Tools: When applying your contour, an angled brush can help with precision, while a fluffy brush is ideal for blending.
- Build Up Gradually: Start with a small quantity of the product and increase it as necessary. It’s simpler to increase than decrease.
- Use a Light Hand: Use a light hand when applying eyeshadow as a contour. Although you can always add more, getting rid of extra can be challenging.
- Set with Powder: Consider using a translucent powder to set your contour if you have oily skin or want it to last longer.
As they say, practice makes perfect. If your first few attempts aren’t perfect, don’t give up.
You can contour your eyes with eyeshadow by taking your time and being patient.
Conclusion: Can You Use Eyeshadow as Contour
In conclusion, whether or not you can use eyeshadow as a contour really depends on your needs, preferences, and skin type.
Eyeshadow is a fantastic product to add to your makeup routine with its many benefits.
Make sure to pick the right shade and blend it out properly if you decide to give it a try. Enjoy yourself while applying your makeup as usual.
Read More: What is Eyeshadow Primer?
FAQs
Can I Use Eyeshadow as Highlighter?
Eyeshadow can be used in place of a separate highlighter product if you don’t want to spend the extra money.
Can I Use Brown Eyeshadow as Contour?
In order to avoid looking like a raccoon, you can wear eyeshadow under your eyes.
Can You Use Eyeshadow as Foundation?
The advantage of using eye shadow for homemade foundations is that it is less expensive to buy than ready-made foundations, despite the fact that most people argue that expensive to midrange foundations are better quality products.
