When it comes to elevating your makeup look, bronzer and contour are often mistaken for twins – but in truth, they’re more like stylish cousins with very different roles. One brings sun-kissed warmth, the other sharpens and defines. Mastering where and how to apply each can transform your face from flat to flawless in minutes.

Bronzer brings life to your complexion by adding warmth and a healthy glow. Think post-vacation radiance without the UV damage! Bronzers are applied to the high points of your face, which are the areas where the sun naturally hits: along the hairline and temples, across the cheekbones (higher up, not underneath), lightly on the bridge of the nose, and a touch on the chin and jawline. To apply it, use a fluffy brush and a light hand to sweep bronzer in a soft “3” shape on each side of your face.

Contour mimics natural shadows, creating structure and definition. It’s your tool for carving cheekbones, slimming the nose, and defining the jaw. As to where to apply it, it goes in the hollows and edges of your face: beneath the cheekbones, along the jawline, on the sides of the nose, and around the hairline if needed. Use a matte, cool-toned product and a denser brush for precise placement, then blend like your glow depends on it.

To bring together dimension and drama, start with contour to shape, then layer bronzer for warmth. The contrast brings out your natural bone structure while keeping your skin looking lit-from-within. Between the light the bronzer brings and the shadow the contour adds, your face will look snatched and well-balanced.

Article Written by Mirella Haddad