In the world of makeup, there is a new trend every day! There are many trends that come and go, but some trends become timeless. Two prominent techniques under face highlighter makeup that have gained significant popularity in recent years are strobing and contouring. Both techniques focus on sculpting the face, but they use contrasting approaches to achieve different effects. Let us have a detailed comparison of strobing and contouring and explore which technique will suit your preferences and face shape.   

Strobing: Achieving the Radiant Glow  

Strobing often referred to as "highlighting," is a makeup technique that focuses on bringing forward the high points of the face to create a luminous and dewy appearance. This technique is all about using light-reflecting shades of the makeup highlighter palette that helps to accentuate the natural structure of your face.  

Steps for Strobing:  

Prep and Prime: Begin with a well-moisturized and primed face for a smooth canvas.  

Highlight: Apply a face highlighter to areas that catch light naturally, such as on the top of your cheekbones, the bridge of your nose, the cupid's bow, and a touch on the brow bone.  

Blend: Gently blend the highlighter using your fingertips or a damp makeup sponge for a seamless, radiant finish. If you are using a highlighter palette, make sure to dust off excess face highlighter powder and apply gently in an upward motion.   

Set: Lightly dust translucent powder over the areas where you applied highlighter to prevent excessive shine.  

Strobing is helpful to -  

• Create a youthful, fresh-faced appearance.  
• It is ideal for those with dry or mature skin, as it enhances the skin's natural glow.  
• The face highlighter is perfect for daytime and events where a natural, dewy look is preferred.  

Contouring: Sculpting and Defining  

Contouring is an advanced makeup technique that aims to add depth and dimension to the face by creating shadows and highlights. It involves using darker shades from the makeup highlighter palette to recede certain areas and lighter shades to bring forward others, resulting in a more sculpted and defined look.  

Steps for Contouring:  

Base Makeup: Start with your regular base makeup, including foundation and concealer.  

Contour: Use a matte contour product that is a shade or two darker than your actual skin tone to define the hollows of your cheeks, jawline, and sides of the nose.  

Blend: Blend the contour lines thoroughly to create a natural shadow effect using a contour brush or a blending sponge.  

Highlight: Apply a light concealer or highlighter powder to the high points of your face: the center of the forehead, under the eyes, bridge of the nose, and chin.  

Blend Again: Blend the highlight areas to ensure a seamless transition between the contoured and highlighted regions.  

Contouring helps to:  

• Adds definition and structure to the face, especially in photos or under strong lighting.  
• Great for special occasions or when you desire a more polished and dramatic appearance.  
• It is suitable for all skin types but requires additional blending for those with dry skin.  

Which Technique Is Right for You?  

Choosing between strobing and contouring depends on your personal preferences, face shape, and the look you want to achieve. If you prefer a radiant and natural appearance with a youthful glow, strobing is your best bet. On the other hand, if you're seeking a sculpted, defined look with enhanced bone structure, contouring is the way to go.  

Whichever technique you choose, mastering these techniques will help you achieve makeup looks that showcase your beauty in captivating ways.  

If you are searching for the best highlighter for your face, consider Viseart. At Viseart, we recognize that makeup is an art form, and it is all about expressing your unique beauty. Our exquisite range of makeup products, including the Viseart Highlighter Palette, offers the versatility to experiment with both trends and find the perfect balance for your individual makeup routine. Explore our collection today and discover endless possibilities to express your unique beauty.