Strobing 101: Tips for mastering the make-up trend
When it comes to beauty routines, strobing and contouring are our favorite magic tricks.
The makeup strategy can change the shape of your face – creating a more defined jawline, stronger cheekbones and even lend you a flawless glow that looks like it was airbrushed.
Celebs have long been fans of contouring and strobing (also known as highlighting). It’s most notably a Kardashian favorite, but actresses Kerry Washington and Emma Watson have also dished that it’s a beauty trick they employ as well. But even if you don’t have a Hollywood makeup artist in your squad, some easy-to-use kits and beauty products can help you perfect the look.
AN ALL-IN-ONE KIT
Ready to go all-in on the trend? This Sephora-exclusive contour book contains everything you need to strobe like a pro. The makeup palette contains easy-to-follow instructions to do everything from slim your face and make your cheekbones appear stronger. The “Sculpting Powder” in the kit allows you to contour, without looking “overly done.” And, “celestial powders” in candlelight and starlight complete the look with highlighting powers. The kit also includes eye shadows and a step-by-step contouring instruction book. Kevyn Aucoin The Contour Book The Art of Sculpting + Defining, $59, Sephora.com
WONDER STICK
A dual-ended highlighting and strobing stick is super-easy to use and will add depth and definition to your facial features. This multi-functioning Wonder Stick has a creamy finish and it conceals, highlights and contours with ease. It comes in four different shade combos to fit varying skin tones – including one universal shade. NYX Cosmetics Wonder Stick, $11.99, Ulta.com
BRUSH UP
When you’re applying strobing, employ a makeup brush that is angled or has a strong tip to help you blend correctly. Moving the brush in circular motions – rather than linear strokes – will help you blend like a true beauty queen and avoid harsh lines. This all-in-one blush collection has just what you need to evenly apply foundation, blend and strobe and perfect your eye makeup routine. Iman Makeup Brush Collection, $35, Walgreens.com
CONCEAL UNDER YOUR EYES
For a youthful, highlighted look, your under-eye concealer should be a shade or two lighter than your skin tone. This will help illuminate your eyes. This concealer will brighten up your eyes by hiding dark circles and fine lines. It also contains Camu Camu, which is an Amazonian superfruit that has 30 times the vitamin C of an average orange. Vitamin C helps support natural collagen and will lend you brighter and firmer skin. Peter Thomas Roth CC Eye Correcting Concealer, on sale $19, Sephora.com
This story was originally published October 10, 2015 at 10:07 AM with the headline "Strobing 101: Tips for mastering the make-up trend."