STYLE

Bronzers and contour sticks are some of the most versatile products in your makeup bag, but which should you use for what? That depends on the look you are going for.

"Sculpting adds extra dimension into your face, mimicking your bone structure's natural shadowing," shares Sara Wren, makeup artist and Milk Makeup's Global Director of Artistry. "Bronzing acts like a warm blush, adding glow to your face's high points."

So, long story short: apply contour below your cheekbones and bronzer on top of your cheekbones. Here are the how-to's...

Sculpting

Simone Ashley for @emilychengmakeup

If you're going for a more angular, contoured look (that'll work all year round), opt for a cool-toned, matte contour stick.

"A cool shade will mimic the natural shadows on the face without looking too warm," explains Wren. To pick the right color, try to match the shadows on your face. "Look at the crease of your eyelids, the hollows of your cheeks and under your jawline," she suggests.

Bronzing

Nikki Rodriguez for @allanface

For a sunkissed effect that gives that just-at-the-beach glow, pick a warm-toned bronzer that's one to two shades deeper than your natural skin tone," Wren recommends.

"I like to use a creamy formula to get a seamless blend that looks natural," she says. Buff it onto the areas of your face where you naturally get some color, like your cheekbones, hairline, chin and browbones.

Wait, I want to be sculpting and bronzing!

Milk Makeup Sculpt Stick Cream Contour, $24 | Milani Cheek Kiss Cream Bronzer, $11

Can it be done? Yes, but proceed with caution (the last thing you want is to take your makeup look from model to muddy). Start with your contour technique, fully blend, then top with a light dusting of bronzer for that goddess glow. Perfection!

Follow us on Insta @girlslifemag for more makeup inspo!

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Top and slider image: @ariana_greenblatt

by Erin Reimel | 7/24/2024