You’ve probably heard the word “strobing” quite a bit lately. Wondering exactly what this new makeup phenomenon is? Strobing is the act of using only makeup hightlighters and or illuminators to emphasize the high points of the face. This new technique creates a gorgeous glowy, “lit from within” look.
Celebs such as Kim Kardashian made contouring the hot makeup trend throughout 2014, but now that the summer months have arrived, so has a luminous, effortless looking makeup trend that is sure to change your makeup routine.
What’s the different between contouring and strobing?
Contouring consists of using darker and lighter shades to chisel your facial features such as cheeks, nose and jaw line, creating a harsh, sometimes gaunt look. Strobing uses only light reflecting shades and products applied to the high points of the face, such as the nose, cheekbones and cupids bow, to give the face a youthful and ethereal glow – perfect for the summer!
So ditch your contour shades and bronzers and let’s find out how to strobe!
Step 1: Moisturize Your Face
There’s no point in adding luminous products to the skin if it’s dry and flaky. Make sure to moisturize your skin on a regular basis, especially before attempting this new makeup trend. We recommend Kiki’s Nourishing Cream, a special formula of anti-aging peptides, powerful antioxidents, hyaluronic acid, and targeted botanicals to improve skin hydration, skin firmness and reduce fine lines.
Step 2: Find the Right Highlight Shade to Match Your Skin Tone
To avoid that frosted 90’s look, make sure you find a highlighter that properly matches your skin tone.
Fair Skin: look for a highlighter with a light champagne color. Avoid shades with flecks of gold or deeper tan colors, as it will appear streaky and obvious on your face.
Light-Medium Skin: choose a shade that has a warmer tone to it, such as rose gold or pink champagne to complement your skin.
Olive Skin: golden tones will melt like butter into your skin. Look for luminators with warmer tones to give your skin a gorgeous J-Lo inspired glow.
Dark/Deep Skin: terracotta tones will complement your skin beautifully. It will not only reflect the light with a gorgeous warm glow, it will also bring light and warmth to your skin, giving you an instant happy, healthy appearance.
Step 3: Highlight the Highest Points on Your Face
-Cheekbones
-Along your temples
-Down the bridge of your nose
-Under the arch of your brows
-Inner corner of the eyes
-Above your cupid’s bow
This will enhance and emphasize your natural features without adding any dark color or shadows to your face. Be careful not to go overboard and apply highlight all over your face. You want your skin to look like it’s plump and hydrated, not greasy and oily.
*Tip- If you have oily skin, skip areas such as your forehead and chin since they already have a little shine.*
Step 4: Soften Everything Up
Went a little overboard with your highlight? No worries! Unlike contouring, strobing is much easier to correct and blend out. Use your fingers, a fan brush, or a makeup sponge to soften up your highlighted areas and blend everything into your skin seamlessly.
If you try this makeup trend, make sure to snap a quick selfie and tag us on Instagram @KikiSkinSpa.
This summer say goodbye to harsh contouring and HELLOOOO to strobing! Unleash your inner glow!
*Photo credit: Getty Images