The Ultimate Guide to Contouring According to The Shape of Your Face

Suvangi sanjeevani pradhan | Jan 31, 2026, 14:00 IST

Contouring according to face shape is the key to enhancing natural features and achieving a balanced look. This ultimate guide explains how to contour your face shape whether round, oval, square, or heart-shaped using expert contouring makeup tips. Along with face-shape-specific techniques, the article also shows how to hide facial scars with makeup, helping create a smooth and flawless finish.Readers will learn how to combine face contouring techniques with effective covering scars with makeup, including the use of color correction makeup, scar concealer, and full-coverage foundation. The guide highlights the best contour makeup, makeup tips for facial scars, and blending methods to ensure natural-looking makeup for scars. Designed for beginners and beauty enthusiasts, this article offers practical advice for contouring for face shape, long-lasting facial scar coverage, and a confidence-boosting makeup routine.


Master the art of sculpting with these face shape specific techniques that can enhance your natural features with no heavy makeup required.



What Is Contouring

Contouring is all about creating the dimension. By using darker shades to create shadows and lighter shades to highlight, you can subtly reshape your face bringing out cheekbones, defining the jawline, and balancing proportions.



If You Have Round Face, Then Add Angles


contouring in round face

If your face is soft and full of rounded cheeks, focus on creating a structure. Apply contour beneath the cheekbones, starting from the ear and blending towards the corner of your mouth. Add a touch along the jawline to sharpen your silhouette. Keep highlights centered on the forehead and nose to elongate your face.



Soften Strong Lines for Square Face


Square faces feature a bold jawline and a broad forehead. To soften those angles, blend contour along the jaw using circular motions. Highlight the center of the forehead, under the eyes, and on the chin to bring softness to your face.



Oval Face Then Enhance Natural Balance


oval shaped face

Oval faces are already well-proportioned, so contouring should be gentle. Lightly contour beneath the cheekbones and add a touch along the sides of the forehead if needed. Highlight the tops of the cheekbones and cupid’s bow to accentuate your natural harmony.



Heart-Shaped Face, Balance the Forehead


With a wider forehead, heart-shaped faces benefit from contouring the temples and sides of the forehead. Add a soft contour under the cheekbones, stopping the mid cheek. Highlight the center of the face and chin to create a visual balance.



If You Have Long Face, Then Shorten and Sculpt


long shaped face

To reduce length, apply contour along the hairline and under your chin. Focus blush and highlight on the apples of the cheeks. This draws attention to the center of the face and creates a more balanced and finer look.



Contouring is not about changing your face, it is about enhancing what you already have. With the right technique for your face shape, you will achieve a sculpted and confident look that still feels like you.



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Tags:
  • natural harmony
  • square faces feature a bold jawline
  • heart-shaped faces
  • highlight the center of the forehead
  • cupid’s bow