You may not know it, but on some level, all makeup applications involve contouring. Sure, the technique can seem intimidating, but it’s actually pretty simple. The idea is that you’re using specific makeup to help enhance your natural features—that’s really it. (For detailed tips, read this guide on how to learn to contour.) The good news is, you don’t need a lot of product to get subtle definition. With a little bit of practice and the right tools at hand, you’ll be ready to contour in confidence. Here are some of our favorite kits that’ll help you get the job done!
RCMA Makeup Highlight and Contouring Palette
$30 | shop it
If you’re not familiar with RCMA, the one thing you need to know about the brand is that the products—designed for pros—are probably unlike anything you’ve used before. That is, they’re super pigmented, so a little (seriously a little!) goes a long way. This five-color foundation palette has a wide range of shades, so pretty much anyone will be able to custom-blend ideal contour and highlight shades. (For more info on how to use RCMA’s foundations, read this.)
Anastasia Contour Palette
$40 | shop it
The Anastasia Contour Kit became an instant cult favorite the day it released, and for good reason. The Contour Kit provides a range of colors that, when combined in different ways, give you a variety of looks that range from the simple to the dramatic. It’s great for pros and beginners alike, and gives you all the shades you need in one slim package. The contour colors range from cool to warm. The highlight colors offer a matte pink undertone, a matte yellow undertone and a soft highlight shimmer that has an ever-so-slight pinkish tone. Whether you’re new to contouring or have been doing it for years, this palette is both comprehensive and fun to use.
Too Faced Natural Face Palette
$39 | shop it
Out of the four, this palette is probably the best bet for people who are new to contouring. It has everything you could possibly want or need to create a pretty, subtle contoured look. Inside are six essentials—luminizer, brightener, concealer, cream and powder blushes, and bronzer. And the how-to guides included in the kit guide you step-by-step instructions for different looks.
Charlotte Tilbury Filmstar Bronze & Glow
$65 | shop it
This bronzer-highlighter duo isn’t just gorgeous to look at—it’s one of our all-time favorite contouring kits. Why? The intensely pigmented, smooth-as-silk formulas work on any skin tone. The bronzer isn’t too red or orange, it’s just right, and the highlighter gives a beautiful, soft glow. In the compact, the product looks shimmery, but once it goes on the skin, it has the most beautiful pearlescent finish. For the ultimate application, try it with the Charlotte Tilbury Powder & Sculpt Brush.