Contour Naturally with Radiant Defense

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Content credit: Ashleigh McDonald  @makeup.by.ashleigh

The contouring trend has been around for years now, and it has stuck — because who doesn’t want to look more sculpted and defined? Especially when you might be pulled into a group selfie at any moment. 

You probably think of contouring as a heavy look, but it doesn’t have to be. Sheer, lightweight Rodan + Fields Radiant Defense Perfecting Liquid blends effortlessly for definition that isn’t overdone. And while you’re looking good, Radiant Defense is doing good for your skin with SPF, antioxidants and moisture-barrier defense.   

Follow the simple steps below for your chiseled glow:

Step 1: Prime Your Skin

If you’d like a dewy finish, begin by applying Active Hydration Serum all over your face. The smooth, oil-free formula will prep the skin and leave it glowing. If you want a matte finish, skip this step and use your usual primer or a mattifying moisturizer. 

Step 2: Build Your Base

We’re all about that base. Create a canvas with the shade of Radiant Defense that’s closest to your skin tone. (You can also mix shades to get your custom color.) Buff the color onto your skin using the Radiant Defense Liquid Brush. Remember, you’ll be adding more product, so use a lighter hand than you normally would. Start with a pea-size amount.

Step 3: Highlight Your High Points

Highlighting is easy! The idea is to brighten the places where light naturally hits. Choose a Radiant Defense shade one or two levels lighter than your base. Use your finger to dot it onto the center of your forehead, making a fan shape, and in a line down the bridge of your nose. You can also add a bit to the tip of your chin for definition, and under your eyes to camouflage dark circles. Blend gently with your fingertip or the Radiant Defense Liquid Brush. 

Step 4: Carve Out Your Contours

Darken the areas of your face where there might be a natural hollow. Choose a Radiant Defense shade one or two levels darker than your base. Put a few drops on the back of your hand (to avoid picking up too much color), then use the Radiant Defense Liquid Brush to draw a line of color directly under your cheekbone, from your hairline to the middle of your cheek. Buff it into your skin. Use the product remaining on the brush on your forehead along the hairline, and blend. For a slimmer-looking nose, lightly contour each side with the product left on the brush. Remember, it’s easier to build up color than to take it away. Add more as needed.

 If you’re going with the dewy look, you’re done!

Step 5: Ready, Set, Matte

For longer-lasting wear and a matte finish, lightly powder Enhancements Mineral Peptides over the entire face using the Enhancements Mineral Peptides Brush. Want a more dramatic matte look? Use a lighter shade of Enhancements Mineral Peptides over your highlighted areas, then bronze the contours with a darker shade. (Pro tip: slide the brush partially shut for more precision.) 

Want to see a contouring demo? Watch Ashleigh, a Rodan + Fields Independent Consultant and pro makeup artist, in action.