Highlighter vs Contouring: Understanding the Difference
The world of makeup is constantly evolving, with new trends and techniques popping up every once in a while. Two such popular techniques are highlighter and contouring. Both are used to enhance facial features, but they work in different ways. Here, we explain the difference between the two, and how they function.
What is Highlighter and How Does it Work?
Highlighter is a makeup product that is used to add shine or brightness to certain areas of the face. It is often used to achieve a glowing, radiant look. Highlighter is applied to the high points of the face where light naturally hits, such as the cheekbones, temples, bridge of the nose, and cupid’s bow. Some highlighters are even used to add a pop of color to the face, such as pink or bronze.
The way highlighter works is by reflecting light. The particles in the highlighter catch the light and reflect it back, making the skin look illuminated and bright. Different textures of highlighters, such as liquid, cream, or powder, can be used to achieve different levels of shine or brightness.
What is Contouring and How Does it Work?
Contouring is a makeup technique that involves using a product that is slightly darker than the skin tone to create shadows on the face, thus enhancing certain features. The purpose of contouring is to create depth and definition. It is usually used to sculpt the face and make certain areas appear smaller, such as the nose or cheeks.
The way contouring works is by creating an illusion of shadow. The darker areas of the face create the appearance of depth, while the lighter areas create the opposite effect. Contouring products are usually matte to avoid creating an unwanted shine where shadows should be.
Highlighter vs Contouring: What’s the Difference?
Highlighter and contouring are often used together to create a complete look, but they serve different purposes. Highlighter is used to draw attention to certain areas of the face by making them look brighter and illuminated, while contouring is used to create the illusion of depth and definition.
Another difference between the two is the placement on the face. Highlighter is applied to the high points of the face where light naturally hits, while contouring is usually used to create shadows on the areas that tend to recede, such as under the cheekbones or along the jawline.
Highlighter and Contouring are Different, but Complementary Techniques
Highlighter and contouring are both makeup techniques used to enhance facial features, but they work in different ways. Highlighter is used to add shine and brightness to certain areas of the face, while contouring is used to create shadow and depth. They can both be used separately or together to achieve different looks, depending on the desired effect. Knowing the difference between the two can help you use them effectively and create the perfect look.
