When a famous woman named Kimberly revealed her makeup artist’s tricks for her signature sculptural face, the world went wild for contouring. Every beauty supply store is stocked with contour kits of just about every brand, with powder and cream formulations. The need for a perfect oval face is in high demand. Luckily for those who prefer a more understated look, and or have never really gotten the hang of blending strict contours, there is a new trend on the rise for summer.
Originating in France like many other beauty trends, strobing was born. For those who still want the slimming effect that contouring provides, don’t fret about strobing it still creates a sculpted look. It concentrates more on the highlighting and illuminating step which is normally in contour to create a dewy and reflective appearance on the skin. Looking at the sunny days here, this trend is spot on because of a more natural flawless complexion.
If you are not familiar with highlighting, there’s an easy way to decide where to place product. What do you like about your face? For example, you may have sharp cheekbones and eyes, which are the perfect opportunity to place highlighter on the orbital bones that extend towards the temples. If you are more of an oily or combination skin type and are worried about looking too shiny, go for a powder formulation. If you tend to be drier, the cream formulation will leave a dewy look, as it sinks into the skin for extended wear. Don’t be afraid to mix and match the two formulations if you’re for example oilier in your T-zone but drier in your cheek area.
As many people know, the first step to applying good makeup is a regular skincare routine. In lighting this step is essential. Make sure there is no slack in the moisturizing step, and often a brightening primer helps bring out that inner highlight from within. When on try to use a foundation that’s more luminous than matte. Below are some of my favourite products to Strobe the Night (or during the day):
Origins GinZing Eye Cream (Origin $30) – Not only is this eye cream like a cup of coffee for your eyes, but it also has a natural optical brightener, which gives it a nice glow quality. Great at removing eye bags from long nights, and for lightening dark circles.
Cover FX Illuminating Primer (CoverFX $38) – You could say this is a skincare product that also enhances makeup looks. A silicone-free primer that helps one stay hydrated all day long, with brightening qualities that give skin a younger appearance.
Giorgio Armani’s Luminous Silk Foundation (Nordstrom $62) – Try as best you can’t to be scared off by the price, a bottle of this will last you eternally if a little bit is enough. It has great coverage, while still giving that “I woke up like this” appearance. Best when applied with a beauty blender.
Laura Mercier Baked Radiance Pressed Powder Highlighter (Sephora $38) – The most universally flattering shade on any skin tone, it has the reflective properties of pearl and gold. It’s too easy, because it looks so natural as if you were permanently in perfect lighting.
Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector in Opal and Moonshine (Sephora $38) – If you have very dry skin, this cream highlight might be for you, and sinks into skin for effortless shine. Think JLo light, and sold. Both colours also come in mini travel sizes at Sephora, in the beauty on the fly section for $19.
For those of you who are afraid of the “face cake”, Strobing will be your new best friend.
