Are you looking to create a bolder look with your makeup? One of the best ways to really add some drama and definition is with contouring. Contouring can be used on any part of your face – from cheekbones, nose, and jawlines – but today we are going to focus specifically on how to contour with eyeshadow.

With just a few simple steps, you’ll be able to add depth and definition around your eyes that will take your makeup looks up several notches! Ready to get started? Let’s dive in!
Step-by-step Guidelines on How to Contour With Eyeshadow
Step 1: Prep Your Eyes
Before you start, make sure to apply an eyeshadow primer over your eyelids and up to the brow bone. This will ensure that your shadow stays put for longer periods of time. Preparing your eyes also helps the contour shade blend more seamlessly with the rest of your eye makeup. This is especially important for those with oily skin.
Step 2: Choose Your Shades
The key to successful contouring is picking the right shades of eyeshadow. You’ll want to choose a medium/light neutral shade for your highlight, and a darker shade for your contour. For a more natural look, stick to matte shadows in both shades. However, if you’re looking for a more dramatic look, feel free to add shimmer and glittery shadows into the mix!
Step 3: Apply Your Base Shadow
Start by applying your lightest eyeshadow shade over the entire lid, up to the brow bone. This will act as a base for your contouring. Make sure to blend this shadow out nicely so there are no harsh lines. While applying, focus on keeping the shadow concentrated in the center of your lid and then blending it out towards the edges as you go.
Step 4: Add Your Contour Shadow
Next, use your darker contour shade to add some depth and definition to your eyes. Start by applying this shade on the outer corners of your eyelids and then blend it out towards the inner corners of your eyes. Make sure to blend this shade well and soften any harsh lines so that you don’t end up with a blocky look.
Step 5: Add Your Highlight Shadow
Finally, use your lightest eyeshadow shade to highlight the inner corner of your eyes and just above the crease. This will help to brighten up the area and give you an overall more finished look. Sometimes, a shimmery shadow is great for this step as it can really add some sparkle to your eyes!

And there you have it! You’ve just successfully contoured your eyes with eyeshadow! With a few simple steps, you can take your eye makeup and look up several notches. Have fun experimenting with different shades and textures to create a variety of looks that will draw attention to your beautiful eyes. Enjoy!
Additional Tips and Tricks to Contour With Eyeshadow
- Choose a shade close to your skin tone for the contour. To avoid obvious lines, you can blend two shades together to create a custom color that works best for you.
- Start by applying eyeshadow in the crease of your eyelid and then use an angled brush or blender brush to work outward and downward from the crease to create a contour.
- To make your eyes look bigger, you can use a lighter shade of eyeshadow on the inner corner and brow bone area. This will brighten up your face and give it dimension.
- Highlighter can also be used as an alternative to contouring. To do this, apply a light shimmery shade to your cheekbones and the center of your forehead for a natural-looking glow.
- Blend, blend, blend! Make sure that you use small circular motions with your brush and keep blending until there are no visible lines or harsh edges in your contour.
- To set the contour and prevent creasing, use a setting powder or spray. This will also help your look to last longer throughout the day.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with different shades of eyeshadow – having fun with makeup is part of the experience! Have patience as you practice and don’t forget to take breaks if you feel overwhelmed. With enough practice, you’ll be an expert in no time!
With the following tips and tricks, contouring with eyeshadow is easier than ever! With a little bit of practice and patience, you’ll be able to master the art of contouring in no time. Good luck!

Things You Should Consider to Contour With Eyeshadow
1. Understand the Basics of Contouring:
Before you start contouring, it’s important to understand what it is and why you should do it. Contouring is a makeup technique used to enhance or create definition on your features such as cheekbones, nose, eyes, jawline, etc. It requires using different colors of eyeshadow to create a sculpted, dimensional look.
2. Choose the Right Eyeshadows:
When it comes to contouring with eyeshadow, you want to choose colors that are two shades darker than your natural skin tone and one shade lighter for highlighting. You also need an eyeshadow brush that will help you blend the colors together. Choosing the right colors and brush will help create a natural-looking finish.
3. Work in Lightly:
It’s important to start with a very light hand when applying the eyeshadow and then slowly build up coverage until you reach your desired look. This will help prevent your contour from looking too harsh or unnatural. If you make a mistake, simply use a damp Q-tip to wipe away the area and start again.
4. Begin With Your Cheeks:
The best place to start when learning how to contour is the cheeks. You can create a sculpted look by blending a darker eyeshadow along your cheekbones and then applying a lighter color in the hollows of your cheeks. While blending, make sure to move the brush back and forth in a circular motion.
5. Finish With Your Jawline:
Once you’ve finished your cheeks, move on to your jawline. To create a chiseled look, use a slightly darker color to define the sides of your chin and then blend it up towards your ears. Finally, add a highlight to make it look more natural and defined.
By following these steps, you’ll be able to create a beautiful and natural-looking contour with eyeshadow that will last all day. With practice, you’ll be able to master the technique and get the perfect look for special occasions or everyday wear. Have fun experimenting!
Precautions Need to Follow for Contouring With Eyeshadow

- Be sure to use eyeshadow colors that are several shades darker than your natural skin tone and use a large, soft brush for application. This will ensure the contour looks natural and not overly dramatic.
- If you’re new to contouring with eyeshadow, start out by using light circles and blending them out, instead of going in with heavy lines. This will help you avoid any harsh edges or excess product that could make the contour look too extreme.
- When using a dark eyeshadow for contouring, always start by applying a primer to your eyelid first. This will help keep your makeup from creasing and prevent any shadow fallout from appearing below your eyes.
- If you’re contouring the inner corner of your eye, use a smaller brush to slowly build up the product in this area. A small amount of product is all that’s needed here since this part of the eye is quite delicate and prone to smudging.
- Make sure to blend the eyeshadow out thoroughly, so it looks natural and not too harsh. When blending, use a light hand and make sure that the darker shades are mixed in with your skin tone seamlessly.
- Finally, don’t forget to add a bit of highlighter along the brow bone and inner corner of your eye to complete the look. This will help brighten up the area and create a more balanced effect.
Follow these tips for mastering the art of contouring with eyeshadow like a pro! With practice, you’ll be able to create stunning makeup looks that enhance your features in no time.

Conclusion
With some basic knowledge of how to contour with eyeshadow isn’t as difficult as it seems and you don’t need a professional makeup artist to do it. First, choose the right color palette for your skin tone, then create contrast by deepening the crease in your eyelid. Once that’s complete, blend gently until everything looks even. Finish off with a stroke of light shadow on your brow bone. Don’t forget to use an eyeshadow primer to keep colors on your lids from getting smudged or patchy during the day.
With practice comes perfection, so don’t be discouraged if the look doesn’t appear perfect on the first try – just keep practicing! After some time, you will master this amazing art of contouring and you will likely find yourself experimenting with different options like adding glitters or shimmer shadows for unique looks. Be creative, have fun, and unleash the makeup artist within you!
About the Author
Jane Hubbard is a passionate beauty expert with a wealth of experience in makeup, hair, and overall beauty techniques. After years of working as a hairdresser specialist, she followed her entrepreneurial spirit and started her own consultancy business.
Jane has always been driven by her desire to help others feel confident in their own skin, and she does this by sharing her knowledge, experiences, and practical beauty tips. Through her consultancy, she empowers individuals to embrace their unique beauty, offering tailored guidance that boosts both self-esteem and personal style.
Professional Focus
- Specializes in makeup, hairstyling, and beauty consulting.
- Provides personalized beauty advice, tips, and techniques to help individuals feel confident in their appearance.
- Dedicated to staying up-to-date with the latest industry trends and developments.
- Passionate about creating a comfortable and empowering experience for every client.
Education History
- University of Craft and Design – Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Woodworking and Furniture Design
- Woodworking Apprenticeships – Extensive hands-on training with skilled craftsmen to refine carpentry and furniture making techniques
- Online Courses & Masterclasses – Continued education in advanced woodworking techniques, design principles, and specialized tools
Expertise:
- Makeup artistry, hairstyling, and beauty consulting.
- Personalized beauty techniques to enhance confidence and self-expression.
- Educating clients on how to maintain their beauty routines at home.