Best Drug Store Contour Stick (2024)

FAQs

Which brand has the best contour stick? ›

Contour and bronzer have two different functions; the former adds shadows and sculpts the face, while the latter adds warmth and mimics where the sun would naturally hit. For this reason, contour generally wouldn't replace bronzer because it has a different function and the formula tends to have a different color.

KVD Beauty Shade + Light Powder Face Contour Palette

The KVD Shade + Light Palette was exceptionally easy to use according to our tester, Amy. A highlighter is paired with each contour color, taking the guesswork out of which tones work best together.

Kardashian begins her contour process by brushing a matte bronzer down the sides of her nose using Smashbox Sunkissed Matte Bronzer. "Take a light powder down the bridge of your nose to highlight," says Kardashian. Her powder of choice is Sephora Bright Set Finishing Powder.

While picking a contour shade, keep in mind that the colour should be at least two shades darker than your foundation to create the necessary shadows. But be wary of going too dark as it will end up looking harsh and patchy.

Apply foundation before you contour your face. Foundation gives you the base you need to apply smooth contour make-up. Applying foundation after the rest of your make-up can wipe out all your contouring and highlighting work.

When contouring, we want to choose shades that imitate the realistic shadows of your face. Select a contour shade 2-3 shades darker to sculpt your features with a similar undertone as your skin. The easiest way to find out whether it is cool, warm, or neutral, is to look at your wrist veins under natural light.

If you consider yourself a pro, reach for a cream contour palette. For those with less of a steady hand, opt for foundation and concealer sticks which are much easier to handle.

Together, bronzer and contour are a MAGICAL, IRRESISTABLE combination, creating a dreamy, sun-kissed, flawless-looking finish! Apply your contour first, before layering your bronzer on top for a radiant-looking glow!

You don't need a special contour kit to achieve this: You can use two shades of concealer or foundation, or bronzer, highlighter, or even eyeshadow or brow powder to contour!

Can you use a bronzing stick as contour? ›

Depending on the formulation and the results you're trying to get, you can also use bronzer as a contour. However, if you're really trying to create a sculpted effect—like super chiseled cheekbones or a nose that looks more narrow—then a traditional matte, neutral contour will serve you better.

Best Overall: Milk Makeup Sculpt Cream Contour Stick

No wonder it's an Allure 2023 Best of Beauty Award winner. Editor Tip: For a more natural look, we recommend buffing out this contour stick's creamy formula with one of our favorite contour brushes.

Conclusion: For someone who is new to the contouring game should consider picking the cream formula. On the other hand, if you are good at contouring and prefer more of defined makeup look, then powder formulas should be your go to option. We hope this guide has helped you choose the perfect contour for yourself.

Apply your sculpting shade to the hollows of your cheeks, the temples, the jaw line, sides and tip of your nose. Never forget to blend, blend, blend! Apply the Highlighting shade on top of the cheekbones, down the centre of the nose, the lip's cupid bow and your brow bone for candle-lit skin!

"Powder contour has an easier application, but it can be a bit drying on mature or dry skin. Cream contours are great for layering and for achieving a more natural finish." Depending on what type of formula you're using will also affect the way you apply it and what type of tools you use.

"Before, I used to go right in the cheekbone," she explained, using a Bobbi Brown contour palette. "But now, I realize that if I do it a little above, it lifts the face a little more." J. Lo then used the same palette to enhance her pout, noting, "This is not supposed to be lip liner.