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“Bronzer can technically create dimension on your skin, but it might look too warm and orange-y, depending on your skin tone,” she says. So, bronzers can sometimes be shimmery or have a sheen to give your skin a glow, while contour is usually matte and meant to blend seamlessly into your skin.īut (!) you can contour with a bronzer or bronze with a contour, but you might prefer a different tone for each, says makeup artist Britty Whitfield. Contour, however, is usually cool or neutral, depending on your undertone, because it’s meant to subtly mimic the natural shadows in your face. A bronzer is usually in a warm tone because you’re adding a luminous glow back into your face-think ~sun-kissed~ and glowy. The difference between bronzer and contour is that bronzer warms up your face, while contour creates shadows. Our top picks for the best contour sticks of 2023: We updated this article in March 2023 to add new contour sticks the internet won't stop talking about, delete outdated oldies, and check in with new experts for the latest in contour sticks, just for you. ✔️ P.S., This is new, up-to-date info, bb. Before that, though, here’s a preview of my faves: I also consulted big-shot makeup artists Brandy Allen, Sean Harris, and Britty Whitefield for their favorite contour sticks, and also got their tips for getting that soft, natural-looking sculpt. Which is what brought me to compile this list to help you find the best contour stick for your specific needs, whether you want a neutral undertone, a matte finish, or a drugstore option. And after testing dozens of different formulas and consistencies, I’ve realized that the best contour stick is all about control, blendability, and shade range. Now, in 2023, when I want to lift my cheekbones and ~chisel~ my jawline, I reach for a creamy, soft contour stick. Ahead, check out their expert picks that'll make your skin look glow like a post-vacation tan, sans excessive exposure to UV rays.Gone are the days of 2016 when I covered my skin in full-coverage foundation, bright-ass under-eye concealer, and matte setting powder-all before sculpting my cheekbones with a chalky contour kit.
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Since we know how confusing it can be to determine which bronzer complements your exact skin tone and its undertones, we tapped makeup artists who bronze faces on the daily to share their knowledge on this beloved beauty staple. Ultimately, your best bet is to look for ranges that offer deep shades that will not only show up but add a gorgeous glow to the skin, like many of the ones ahead. That being said, there are some brands like LYS and Fenty Beauty getting it right. It can be especially tricky (and unfairly so) for those with dark and deep complexions to find a suitable bronzer, as there are fewer options on the market that cater to them. However, she also says to look for terracotta hues that have a hint of red to them, as they look beautiful on tan complexions. People with tan, olive-toned skin can get away with wearing most bronzer shades as long as they don't stray too far from their natural skin color, says Flowers. "Be sure to avoid bronzers that appear overly orange or red-toned in the pan, as it will only come across more intense when you apply it to the skin," says Flowers. Those with light-to-medium complexions can also benefit from choosing shades one or two decimals darker than their natural skin color, but in terms of undertones, look for options that are neutral to get the most natural-looking glow possible. If you have fair skin, New York City-based makeup artist Elisa Flowers recommends looking for one just a shade or two darker than your natural skin tone and always, always using a light hand when applying. It's always a good idea to check out how the color looks in natural light to ensure it's a spot-on match.
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As a general rule, you want to steer clear of any bronzers that look too orange or gray, as these tones can make you look unnaturally tan or washed out. However, much like foundation and concealer, bronzer can go catastrophically wrong if you don't find the right shade for your skin tone.
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A sweep of one of the best bronzers on the high points of your face creates subtle definition (hello, cheekbones) while also adding a beautiful, all-over warmth that will trick people into thinking you just got back from vacation - minus the sun damage. Blush isn't the only makeup product that gives your complexion an instant pick-me-up.
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