We’re all familiar with face contouring, a makeup technique that accentuates your features with strategically applied products in various shades. Razor-sharp cheekbones were shaded to perfection, noses slimmed, and it worked like magic. Admittedly, coutouring is not for everyone, as it requires meticulous application – and a lot of time. Strobing, however – named after, you guessed it, strobe lights – is contouring’s fresher, friendlier, more time-efficient cousin; it simply adds highlights to give you a youthful, illuminated complexion. For 2016, beauty is all about healthy-looking skin that naturally brings out the best of your features. So here’s how to strobe…
Prep
You know the drill: cleanse, tone and moisturise regularly to ensure your skin is in optimum condition. If it’s not already part of your regime, use a weekly face exfoliator or include a face brush in your daily cleansing routine (there’s nothing worse than loose dead skin flaking about, ugh). For best results, pamper your skin with a hydrating face mask at least once every two weeks. Check out this hydrating skincare weapon.
Hydrate and moisturise
Massage a hydrating serum into your face to create a light, dewy canvas, leaving it on to absorb for 30 seconds. Add a drop of moisturiser to a foundation and mix together on the back of your hand before applying to your face with a finger. Buff well.
Highlight
Apply a light-reflecting concealer under your eyes and around your nose. Blend seamlessly in place by gently dabbing lightly with your fingers.
Shade
This next part is crucial, so take note. Apply concealer two shades lighter than your natural shade to the parts of your face that are naturally illuminated: along your cheekbones, down the bridge of your nose, your cupid’s bow, and your temples. Dot a liquid highlighter or illuminator in the same areas, and blend well.
Add some glow
Add a touch of soft, pink/peach blush to your cheeks for a flush of colour.
Finish it off
Finish with a dusting of luminous loose powder on a large brush, and there you are – perfectly, radiantly strobed, and ready to take on the world.
