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How to Contour an Oblong (Long) Face: Exact Placement & Steps

If you have an oblong (long) face, contouring can help balance your features by visually shortening the face. Here’s a precise, step-by-step guide for optimal placement and blending.

How to Contour an Oblong (Long) Face: Exact Placement & Steps

Step 1: Identify Your Face Shape

Before you start, make sure you have an oblong (long) face - longer than wide, straight cheeks, and a longer forehead and chin. Not sure? Use Makeup Check AI to scan your selfie and get an exact face shape match, so you contour confidently.

Step 2: Choose the Right Contour Product

  • Pick a matte contour product 1 - 2 shades darker than your skin.
  • Use a brush or sponge for a natural, blended finish.

Step 3: Exact Contour Placement for Oblong Faces

  • Forehead: Apply contour along the top of your hairline, focusing on the center and blending out toward the temples. This visually shortens a long forehead.
  • Chin: Lightly sweep contour along the bottom edge of the chin. Blend upward to soften the line, making the chin appear less elongated.
  • Cheeks: Apply contour just under the cheekbones, but keep it horizontal - don’t angle too far down. Blend toward the ears to add width, not length.

Step 4: Blush and Highlight Placement

  • Blush: Apply blush horizontally across the apples of your cheeks and sweep it out toward the ears. This widens the face visually.
  • Highlight: Keep highlight to the center of the forehead and the tops of the cheekbones. Avoid highlighting the chin tip, as this can add unwanted length.

Step 5: Blend for a Seamless Finish

Blend all contour lines upward and outward until there are no harsh edges. The goal is soft shadows that enhance your bone structure without obvious lines.

For truly tailored results, scan your face with Makeup Check AI to confirm your shape, undertone, and get personalized contour shade recommendations.

Want this mapped to your exact face? Makeup Check AI scans your face shape from a selfie and shows where every product goes.

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FAQ

Where should I avoid placing contour on an oblong face?

Avoid contouring the sides of your face, as this can make it appear narrower. Focus on the hairline and chin to visually shorten the length.

Can I use cream or powder contour for this technique?

Both cream and powder work well. Choose the texture that blends best with your skin type and foundation for a seamless finish.

How do I know if my face is oblong or oval?

Oblong faces are noticeably longer than wide with a long forehead and chin. Use Makeup Check AI to scan your selfie and get an exact shape match.

Should I highlight my chin on a long face?

No, avoid highlighting the chin tip, as this emphasizes length. Focus highlight on the center of the forehead and cheekbones only.

How do I pick the right contour shade for my skin?

Choose a matte shade 1 - 2 shades darker than your skin. Makeup Check AI can analyze your undertone from a selfie and suggest your perfect match.