We all know there is nothing new under the sun and that includes the new strobing technique that is gaining momentum in the makeup community. Strobing is just a fancy word for highlighting. Applying a highlight to the areas of your face where the light naturally hits gives you a glow and a softer appearance. For those of you that could never master contouring, this method of shaping your face may be just what you need. There are claims that this technique does not favor oily skin as much as it would someone with normal/combination skin. I find that not to be true. It is always about your technique and application. There are two different “strobing” methods that can benefit either skin type.
For women that can pull off a dewy look, I recommend using a cream highlight (Illamasqua Gleam Highlighters) or finely milled powder highlight (Becca Skin Perfector Pressed). If you are using a cream product try applying this before you apply your foundation. Stippling the foundation on over your cream highlight will give you a natural glow without going overboard with products. When applying the cream remember to keep the product in the areas that will naturally catch the light: center of forehead, bridge of nose, cupids bow, chin, and top of cheekbones. If you prefer something with a little more pop try a powder highlight after you’ve completed your foundation routine. This will show up more and give you even more of a glow.
Another technique that isn’t highly focused on is matte strobing (highlighting). Once again, none of these techniques are new but being that the summer is more about having a glow, the popularity has grown. Matte strobing will benefit women who have oily or textured skin. Even women with deeper complexions will benefit from this technique when it comes to contouring because it still shapes your face without the need for darker creams or powders. To achieve this look, place a concealer that is 1 to 2 shades lighter than your complexion in the areas where the light naturally hits. As stated earlier these include center of forehead, bridge of nose, cupids bow, chin, and under the eye extending it to the top of your cheekbones. Once you begin blending this out you will notice an automatic brightness to your complexion. If you want to achieve a contoured look without extra products place this shade under your cheekbone where your contour naturally falls. This will give the illusion of contouring without taking the actual steps. Set these areas with a powder that is the same color as your concealer to maintain the brightness. If you have oily skin or a few breakouts avoid placing shimmer highlights in these areas. I find that placing a touch of shimmer on the brow bone or high cheekbones is just enough if you still want an extra glow.
The best thing about this “strobing” phase is that you can use products you already have at home. The popularity of this is a chance to try a new technique and see how it fits into your makeup routine. It seems like there is always a constant new trend in the makeup world. Although there is some truth to this, not all trends are band wagon worthy. I’ve learned to do my research on a lot of new trends that emerge and figure out if it is something that’s actually new or just a new name for an old technique. The benefit of these trends is allowing those new to the makeup world to feel more comfortable about trying new things and it makes it easier to branch out. Like I always say, try new things and most importantly HAVE FUN!
-Keisha Campbell
TPR
Sources: www.beccacosmetics.com ; www.illamsqua.com ; www.glamichi.com, www.nikkietutorials.com ; www.ladylabrish.com
This is a great post! Contouring and highlighting is kind of new to me so this was very helpful.
Reblogged this on unleashedbeautyandwellness.