what’s the difference between contour and bronzer?

[ykitznaia]

Hey everyone

I’m new to the makeup industry and i use YSL All Hours in the shade dw5 and i had to do my own makeup yesterday for my graduation photos and i was told that i was using bronzer instead of contour when i was contouring my face so i was wondering what the difference between the two was and what are the best shades that’ll help me and best brands for contour

[sierradescence]

Contour tends to be cooler toned, think the color of a shadow - to create a shadow affect where you’re contouring

bronzer is designed to add warmth and variations in color 

[danielledanielle]

You can sometimes contour with bronzer (and blush), it depends on the desired effect and undertones @ykitznaia . I also think of contouring as playing with light and darkness, the contour is to add depth.  If I use bronzer to contour, it's usually to add a shadow and focus on the light areas or areas I want to make noticable.  I usually do that on my forehead and temples.  Occasionally my nose bridge.  To chisel or define something, then I definitely need a contour, which is cooler in tone than a bronzer.

I would look to specific brands for contour, just because you'll likely find a better variety to suit your undertone and not run into the gray/dust trap when the selection is narrow.  LYS Beauty No Limits Cream Bronzer and Contour Stick Strength , Fenty Beauty by Rihanna Match Stix Matte Contour Skinstick , Danessa Myricks Beauty Balm Contour , Danessa Myricks Beauty Groundwork: Defining Neutrals - Palette For Eyes, Brows, Face & Lips (this is a multi use palette, I like it for contour)

[SportyGirly125]

@ykitznaia @Bronzer is placed where the sun hits your face (high points). Contour is to slim down, chisel your face.