Trust Me: This Overlooked Makeup Item Ensures Perfectly Sculpted Cheeks Effortlessly.

      While numerous makeup trends come and go over the years, few have left such a lasting mark as contouring. Popularized by Kim Kardashian and her makeup artist, Mario Dedivanovic, in 2014, this technique of accentuating facial contours with bronzer has revolutionized the way many of us apply makeup, even today. However, it's undeniable that contouring can be daunting, especially if you don’t have a celebrity makeup artist like Kim at your disposal. There’s a lot to consider, from application techniques to selecting the right products, before you even start. Therefore, I consulted my own makeup artist (or at least someone I could reach via email), Aarti P, beauty educator and founder of South Asian Beauty Collective, for her expert insights on the topic.

      What Is Contouring?

      Contouring is a method where a slightly darker makeup shade than your skin tone is applied to specific areas of the face, such as the cheekbones, nose, and forehead, to create the illusion of depth and highlights. These contours enhance the definition and dimension of the face, resulting in a chiselled appearance. However, in 2025, we’re adopting a much softer approach to contouring. “It feels much more subtle and wearable now,” Pal noted. "It’s about enhancing your natural features rather than completely altering them. The focus is on lifting the face, creating gentle shadows, and achieving a natural look."

      How To Contour

      So, how do you achieve these natural-looking contours? It all begins with your tools. “Contouring sticks simplify the process because you can draw them exactly where you want the shadow and then blend them out,” Pal explains. “[They’re] creamier, easier to blend, and they don’t sit on the skin in the same way [as traditional contour products].”

      “When applying, I recommend starting light,” Pal continues. “Apply a small amount beneath your cheekbones, along your temples, and possibly under the jawline, then blend upwards. That upward motion provides a lifting effect. I also like to use the remaining product on my brush to add a hint of definition along the sides of the nose or in the crease of the eye to pull everything together.”

      Now that you know the technique, let's discuss the best tools for the job. According to Pal, contour sticks offer the most reliable method of application and blend seamlessly into any base (foundation, tinted moisturizer, or skin tint) for a natural finish. I asked her to share her top recommendations for contour sticks along with her application tips. Additionally, I’ve included some of my own favorites. Keep reading to see our selections…

      The Best Contour Sticks 2025

      Best overall contour stick: Victoria Beckham Contour Stylus (£35)

      Best natural-looking contour stick: Milk Makeup Sculpt Stick (£22)

      Best affordable contour stick: L’Oréal Paris Infallible Face Sculptor (£11.99)

      Best contour stick for pale skin tones: Makeup by Mario Soft Sculpt Shaping Stick (£32)

      Best contour stick for dark skin tones: Fenty Beauty Match Stix Contour Skinstick (£25)

      1. Victoria Beckham Contour Stylus

      Best overall contour stick

      Victoria Beckham Beauty

      Contour Stylus

      Pros: Small applicator allows for precision, excellent for nose contouring.

      Cons: Limited shade selection, requires multiple swipes to sufficiently define cheekbones.

      Victoria Beckham Beauty's curated collection of products and luxury formulations is a staple in many beauty editors' kits. Therefore, it's no surprise that their contouring stick is one of my absolute favorites. The product is creamy, lightweight, and blendable, while the slim applicator enables precise application, making it easy to use. Simply swipe and blend into the skin with your finger for a naturally defined contour.

      2. Westman Atelier Petite Face Trace Contour Stick

      If your contour often appears patchy or tends to cake throughout the day, consider Westman Atelier’s skincare-infused formula. This stick provides a pigmented swipe of color while its creamy formulation, enriched with jojoba oil and raspberry extract, hydrates the skin during application for a smoother finish. Moreover, kaolin clay helps absorb excess oil, ensuring your contour lasts all day, even on oily skin. Pal considers this her favorite luxe contour wand due to its ability to “melt seamlessly into the skin.” Having tried it myself, I completely agree.

      3. L’Oréal Paris Infallible Face Sculptor

      Best affordable contour stick

      L’Oréal Paris

      Infallible Face Sculptor

      Pros: Affordable, targeted applicator, great shade variety.

      Cons: Slightly warm tones may not suit all skin tones.

      At just £11.99, L’Oréal Paris Face Sculptor is perfect for beginners looking for an affordable way to try contouring or for anyone wanting quality without breaking the bank. Pal describes this stick as “creamy, transfer-proof, and long-lasting,” all desirable traits