My first introduction to the concept of contouring was Kim Kardashian, and for a long time I didn’t understand how I could introduce it to my makeup routine. If you aren’t familiar with contouring, it’s essentially visual trickery by using darker skin toned makeup in key areas to slim and chisel your features. The concept scared me because I’m pale… really pale. No matter how hard I tried, I felt like every time I contoured, I’d just see harsh brown streaks all over my face.
Contouring may seem scary if you’re pale, but there’s no need to be. Personally I’ve found I prefer warmer contour colors in cream formulas, but experiment and find what’s right for you! Here are some of my tips and products for achieving a natural-looking contour with pale skin.
Brushes
To apply my contour colors I really enjoy the e.l.f. Contouring Brush. Since it’s dense you can pick up a lot of powder and apply it with precision. It makes really easy work of applying underneath your cheekbones and along your jawline. Once my contour is applied, I like to blend out with the e.l.f. Ultimate Blending Brush.
Application
You can play around with where you place your contour and highlight colors, but this guide from Australis Cosmetics is my favorite for beginners. Start by applying less product, and build it up as you go. Remember, it’s always easier to add pigment than to remove it.
Over time I’ve found a variety of vegan contouring products that work with my pale skin. Here are some of my favorites:
e.l.f. Contour Palette ($6)
The e.l.f. Contour Palette is a simple and inexpensive way to start contouring. The pigmentation on these powders isn’t stellar, but that way you can build up coverage on pale skin!
Australis AC On Tour Kit ($12.13USD)
I’ve been really impressed with the AC On Tour Kit. Its got a great range of shades that are easy to blend. Australis is an Aussie brand, so it may not be the most realistic to get here in the States. But, if you have the opportunity to try it, I highly recommend!
Au Naturale Organic Creme Bronzer Stick ($32)
💕 Au Naturale bronzer stick. While this is another bronzer, I like it for a natural contour. Since it has some shimmer I prefer to use it when I want to look dewy. This bronzer is packed with skin-healthy ingredients like coconut and jojoba oils.
OCC Trick Creme Color in Trick ($23)
Another great cream formula that blends out amazingly. Plus this stuff can be used almost anywhere you want – eyes, lips, face, have fun!
Too Faced Milk Chocolate Soleil Bronzer ($30)
Yes, this is a bronzer and not necessarily a contouring powder. However, it’s a beautiful matte light brown that smells like chocolate (YUM) and is easy for days when you don’t want to do a full on contour. Without a doubt, this color will leave any pale-skinned person with the most natural contour!
Worth Mentioning: Makeup Geek Contour Powders ($10)
While I don’t own any of these powders, I’ve seen people rave about them since they’re release. They have a HUGE range of shades that can work with anyone from porcelain to deep skin, with either warm or cool undertones. Logical Harmony had a wonderful try-on video that showed swatches and she demo’ed how they blend out.
Contouring can work for anyone – whether you have pale or deep skin. All it takes is practice and the right products. If you have any contouring recommendations, I’d love to hear them in the comments!
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