Do you know the difference between bronzer and contour? Often, the two are lumped together and thought of as the same thing, with people mistakenly using different types of bronzer to contour and contour products to bronze. And I totally get it; the two are very similar. While both bronzing and contouring can be used to add depth to a makeup look, the main factor that distinguishes the two boils down to its purpose.
The truth is, bronzing your skin and contouring your face isn’t the same. The two techniques actually hold differences in purpose and application and even require different kinds of products. If you’re still confused, don’t worry. Let me explain.
What Is Contouring?
The goal of contouring is to help create the illusion of shadows on your face. Those shadows can be used to sculpt, define, and restructure the face; more prominent cheekbones, a stronger jawline, etc.. Essentially, contouring can help transform the structural appearance of your face in a matter of minutes - no invasive procedures are required.
What Should I Look For In A Contouring Product?
Your contour product should emulate a natural shadow, so the product should always be completely matte. Shadows are also cool-toned, so you need a product with grey or beige undertones. Anything orange or golden will simply muddy the look and won’t resemble a natural shadow.
What Is Bronzing?
Bronzer is used to emulate a sun-kissed glow and enhance a tan. Bronzing makeup can be used to darken areas of the skin without masking it or to add warmth. Bronzer is a great way to make your skin look radiant and healthy, and meant to warm up your complexion and give it a sun-kissed look. So while contour products can temporarily create the illusion of a more structured complexion, bronzer can make you look as if you’ve spent the day soaking up some rays (without all the sun damage that comes with it).
Picking The Perfect Bronzer
Bronzing products come in different formulas: gels, creams, powders, and liquids. Some products are used all over the body and not just on the face. You can also choose a matte bronzer or a shimmery one. A matte bronzer is better if you want a natural finish. Use a matte product to lightly define your features and warm up your skin tone. Shimmer is best for a sun-kissed, radiant finish.
Bronzers tend to be more warm-toned, which is why you shouldn’t use one as a contour. A matte bronzer may look like a good contour shade, but it's more likely to warm your skin and not create the cool-toned shadows you want.
Sara was born and raised in the Czech Republic. In 2012, she moved to the US and worked many jobs but never felt fulfilled, which lead her to share her story and her passion for fitness (former fitness professional), nutrition tips (vegan) and makeup. She is also a new mom. Sara and her husband welcomed their baby boy in June 2020.
Sara is a makeup junkie at heart and decided to start her own business to help women look and feel their best. She loves supporting other business moms feel beautiful inside and out as they work to create their own destinies.
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