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How to Contour an Oval Face: Exact Placement & Steps

Oval faces have balanced proportions and suit most makeup techniques. The key is subtle contouring to enhance natural symmetry without overdoing it.

How to Contour an Oval Face: Exact Placement & Steps

Where to Place Contour on an Oval Face

For an oval face, place contour to gently define features without altering the natural balance. Focus on:

  • Under the cheekbones (not too low)
  • Optional: along the temples for soft definition
  • Jawline only if you want extra sculpting

Avoid heavy contouring along the sides of the forehead or jaw, since oval faces already have soft, balanced lines.

Step-by-Step Contouring Technique

  1. Choose your contour: Select a matte product one to two shades deeper than your skin tone. Not sure of your shade? Makeup Check AI scans your selfie to find your exact match.
  2. Prep your face: Apply foundation and concealer as usual, blending well.
  3. Cheekbones: Suck in your cheeks to find the hollow. Apply contour from the top of your ear toward the middle of your cheek, stopping in line with your iris. Blend upward with a brush or sponge for a seamless finish.
  4. Temples (optional): Lightly sweep contour at the outer forehead, blending into the hairline for soft depth.
  5. Jawline (optional): If desired, apply a small amount along the jaw’s underside, blending downward into the neck.
  6. Blend thoroughly: Use circular motions to diffuse any edges. The goal is a natural shadow, not harsh lines.

Tips for a Flawless Finish

  • Less is more. Start with a small amount of product and build up if needed.
  • Pair with blush on the apples of your cheeks, blending back toward the hairline.
  • Highlight the tops of your cheekbones and brow bones for added dimension.
  • Scan your face with Makeup Check AI if you’re unsure of your face shape or undertone, so your contour shade and placement are always right for you.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Applying contour too low on the face, which can drag features down.
  • Using too dark a shade, making the contour look unnatural.
  • Leaving harsh, unblended lines.
  • Over-contouring the jaw or forehead, which can disrupt your face’s natural harmony.

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

Should I contour my forehead if I have an oval face?

Only lightly contour the outer temples if desired. Avoid heavy contouring on the sides or top, as oval faces are already balanced.

How do I find my cheekbones for contour placement?

Suck in your cheeks to see the hollow, then apply contour from the ear toward the mid-cheek, stopping in line with your iris.

What contour shade is best for my skin tone?

Choose a matte shade one to two shades darker than your skin. Use Makeup Check AI to scan your face and get a precise match.

How do I know if my face is oval?

Oval faces are slightly longer than wide, with a softly rounded chin and a forehead a bit wider than the jaw. Scan your selfie with Makeup Check AI for instant shape detection.

Can I use cream or powder contour?

Both work well. Creams blend easily for a natural look, while powders are great for a matte finish. Choose based on your skin type and preference.