Gorgeous by the Hour
Shading versus highlighting? Carisa Janes, CEO and founder of Hourglass Cosmetics, shares her thoughts and tips
Not everybody wants to look like Kim Kardashian. But enough people do, which explains how the beauty world, after she posted pictures of herself pre- and post-contour, was saturated overnight with contouring tips, tutorials and a mountain of new products, all in the name of a sharp nose and chiselled jawline. While the make-up trend has kept some of its loyal following, Carisa Janes will have none of that. We sit down with the CEO and founder of Hourglass Cosmetics to talk about the banes of contouring, its antithesis strobing, and why the sunken cheeks look is not for everyone.
What’s buzzing in the world of beauty?
The key ingredient that is getting a lot of attention is photoluminescent technology, which is in our entire Ambient range. Basically, it’s a particle that absorbs light, balances it and corrects it as it shines off your skin, so it looks beautiful, glowing and natural. It’s very unique because it mimics the look of young skin.
Is that similar to contouring?
No. The opposite actually. Contouring emphasises the natural shadows and high points on the face using various shades of make-up. The contrast between shadows and highlights gives shape to the face and works to enhance facial features
Do you recommend it?
Because the effects can be quite sculpted and harsh, it looks better in pictures than in person. Not everyone looks good contoured either, especially if you have a skinny face or mature skin. Shadows can age you. Strobing on the other hand is a much easier technique to learn and is universally flattering.
How so?
Strobing focuses on using light to bring facial features forward. You can sculpt the face just by accentuating the higher areas like the cheekbones, brow bones and Cupid’s bow. The result is a refined, natural highlight.
Any tips for strobing without looking like a hot mess?
Focus only on the higher points of the face, not all over. You can create the illusion of a longer, narrow nose by highlighting the bridge of the nose, or accentuate the cheekbones and lift the brows by strobing in a crescent moon shape along the tops of the cheekbones and towards the top of the brow.