How to Contour a Round Face Like a Pro
I’ve always been obsessed with the magic of makeup. From experimenting with my mom’s blush and bronzer as a kid to perfecting prom looks for my friends in high school, makeup has always been a creative outlet for me. Over the years, I’ve learned techniques that can completely transform a face—and one of my absolute favorites is contouring. Especially for those of us with rounder face shapes, contouring can create beautiful definition and accentuate your natural features.
I get so many questions about how to contour for different face shapes, and today I’m spilling all the tips and tricks for contouring a round face! If you’ve been wondering how to add dimension and enhance your features, keep reading for my step-by-step guide, recommended products, and application tips. Let’s get into it!
Understanding a Round Face Shape
Before diving into the technique, it’s important to understand the characteristics of a round face. Typically, a round face has softer angles, similar width and length, and fuller cheeks. The goal of contouring for this face shape is to create the illusion of more structure by emphasizing the cheekbones, slimming the jawline, and elongating the face. The best part? It’s easier than you might think.
What You’ll Need
To contour a round face, you’ll need:
Contour Products: Choose a cream or powder contour that’s 2-3 shades darker than your natural skin tone. Creams are ideal for a dewy finish, while powders work well for oily skin.
Highlighter: Pick a shade that’s 1-2 shades lighter than your skin tone for a natural glow.
Blush: Opt for a soft, rosy shade to add warmth.
Brushes or Sponges: Use a blending brush, angled contour brush, or damp beauty sponge for precise application and seamless blending.
Setting Powder or Spray: Lock in your look to ensure it lasts all day.
Contouring Guide for Round Faces
1. Prep Your Skin
Start with a clean, moisturized face. Apply a primer to ensure your makeup goes on smoothly and lasts longer. If you’re planning to wear foundation, apply it now to create an even base. I recommend using a lightweight, buildable foundation so your contour doesn’t feel heavy.
2. Map Out Your Contour
Using your contour product, map out the areas you want to define:
Cheekbones: Start from the top of your ear and angle down toward the corner of your mouth. Stop about halfway to avoid dragging your face down.
Jawline: Apply contour along the jawline and slightly under the chin to create a more sculpted look.
Forehead: If you have a larger forehead, apply contour along your hairline to visually reduce the height.
Nose (Optional): For a slimmer nose, draw two lines down the sides of the bridge and connect them at the tip.
Pro Tip: Use a light hand! It’s easier to build intensity later than to remove too much product.
3. Blend, Blend, Blend
The key to a natural-looking contour is seamless blending. Use a damp beauty sponge or a fluffy brush to gently blend the edges of your contour. Make small, circular motions to avoid harsh lines. Be sure to blend upwards, especially on the cheekbones, to lift the face.
Adding Dimension
Once your contour is blended, it’s time to highlight the high points of your face:
Under the Eyes: Apply a lighter concealer or highlighter in a triangle shape under each eye to brighten.
Bridge of the Nose: Add a thin line of highlighter down the center of your nose for a lifted effect.
Forehead and Chin: Place a touch of highlighter on the center of your forehead and chin to draw light to the center of your face.
Cupid’s Bow: Dab a little highlighter above your lips for a subtle, plumping effect.
Blend the highlighter using your sponge or fingers for a seamless finish.
Add a Pop of Blush
Blush is essential for adding warmth and life to your contour. For round faces, focus on applying blush slightly higher on the cheeks, closer to the temples. This placement lifts the face and complements the contour beautifully.
Smile gently to find the apples of your cheeks, then sweep blush upward toward your hairline. Use a fluffy brush for a soft, diffused effect.
Set Your Makeup
To ensure your contour stays in place, set it with a translucent powder or setting spray. Focus on the areas where you tend to get oily, such as the T-zone, but avoid over-powdering to keep the skin looking fresh and natural.
Pro Tips
Choose the Right Shade: The wrong contour shade can make or break your look. Stick to cool or neutral undertones for a shadow-like effect.
Don’t Skip the Blending: Harsh lines can make your contour look unnatural. Take your time blending for the most realistic finish.
Layer Products Strategically: For a long-lasting look, layer cream and powder contour. Apply the cream first, then lightly dust a matching powder on top.
Light is Key: Good lighting is crucial when applying contour. Natural light works best to ensure you’re blending properly.
My Favorite Contouring Products
Here are some tried-and-true products that I swear by:
Contour: Fenty Beauty Match Stix in “Mocha” ($32 on Amazon) or Charlotte Tilbury Contour Wand ($42 on Charlottetilbury).
Highlighter: Rare Beauty Liquid Luminizer ($25 on Amazon) or Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector ($40 on Amazon).
Blush: NARS Blush in “Orgasm” ($26 on Amazon) or Milani Baked Blush in “Luminoso” ($9 on Amazon)
Tools: Real Techniques Sculpting Brush ($8 on Amazon) and Beauty Blender ($20 on Amazon) for flawless application.
Why Contouring Works for Round Faces
Contouring enhances your natural beauty while helping to define your unique features. For round faces, the strategic placement of shadow and light can:
Create the illusion of higher cheekbones.
Slim the appearance of the jawline.
Add structure to soft facial features.
With practice, you’ll find the perfect technique and products that work for you. Remember, makeup is all about experimenting and having fun!
Final Thoughts
Learning how to contour for a round face can be a game-changer for your makeup routine. With the right products and techniques, you can enhance your natural beauty and feel confident in your look. Don’t be afraid to practice and experiment until you find what works best for you.
If you found this guide helpful, share it with your friends or leave a comment below! I’d love to hear about your favorite contouring tips and products. And remember—beauty is all about feeling good in your own skin.
Happy contouring!