The Best Contour Palette

Buying Guide

Concealer and contouring makeup products are used after facial moisturizers and primers but before the foundation is applied. Instead of exactly matching the skin tone, these creams, powders and cream-to-powder formulas come in other colors.

The concealers can cover red spots and acne, and the contouring tones accentuate shadowed areas of your face, adding dimension and depth. You might look strange at first with the different tones on your face, but you’ll blend and cover these contours with foundation.

These products are buildable, too, so you can mix and match and use a light hand or keep sculpting and highlighting to your heart’s content. The palettes come with several shades per case and may or may not include an applicator; many people use their fingers. Look for color groupings that match your skin type and tone for the best results. Powders generally last longer than creams but may be drying or not go on as smoothly.

You can find plenty of contouring palettes from companies that do not test their products on animals, as well as vegan ones made without irritating ingredients and parabens. Look for phrases like “cruelty-free” in product descriptions when this is a concern. If you plan to keep the palette in your purse, get one that has a built-in mirror on the inside. It works best to apply these products when you have a looking glass!

Some of these creams and powders are matte, while others have more shimmery or pearlescent finishes. Applying contours and concealers takes time, so don’t be discouraged if things don’t look right at first. It helps to follow the instructions that came with the kit or look for online tutorials. Once you figure out how to use these products, you’ll see how easy it really is.

• There are also liquid and stick contouring and concealing makeup products that you may enjoy using.
• Sweep a thin layer of translucent powder over your foundation before putting on powder contouring makeup.
• Popular areas for contouring include the jawline, along the sides of the nose, under the cheekbones and around the hairline.
• A highlighting product should be one to two shades lighter than your skin tone; use it under the eyes, on the bridge of the nose, on the chin and on the forehead.
• There are palettes with removable trays that you can refill.
• Don’t be afraid to experiment; contouring is usually done after foundation and concealer, but the rules aren’t set in stone.