Strobing. It's the new contouring. Just like bronzing was the new blush. And we all know who brings on all these trends. That's right, it's Mrs. Kardashian West herself and her endlessly flawless instagram pictures that cause you to dream at night of perfected skin. So what is strobing and how can you achieve it? More importantly, what do you need to know before strobing so that you wont end up looking like a stadium light?
Her's the low down. Strobing is basically reverse contouring. Instead of focusing on bringing out the dark contours of your face, you focus more on where the light hits your face. This can be done in two ways. If you want a subtler glow, start strobing before your foundation and go in with a heavier hand. If you want a stronger effect finish off after you do the rest of your makeup. Strobing is essentially enhancing what you would look like if you were facing the sun, where the sun would hit your face first. So swipe your highlighter on the upper cheekbones going slightly around the side of your eyes, the bridge of your nose, cupids bow, chin and a tad on your forehead. You can even go as far as highlighting your brow bone but don't overdo it or you will look like Miss Texas. You can still add contouring to your routine but as far as bronzing, if you must, go in with an easy hand. You should look like you are glowing naturally. The contrast between the bronzer and strobing can be too much.
Now for the big question. Can you do it? Everyone can strobe, but all skin is different and therefore strobing should be approached according to your needs. First of all if you have large pores, strobing will accentuate them, which is not really what you want. To avoid this, exfoliate first. Everyone should exfoliate before creating any shine on the face, but those with large pores will find it super beneficial. Apply a silicone based primer. The slip will fill in pores and create a smoother base. And choose a finely milled powder highlight rather than a liquid or stick which will just sit in the pores rather than over it, even if you wear a primer. And lastly go for a shade that isn't too white. A rose gold or champagne is better. For the rest of you with smaller pores, or the envious flawless textured skinned girls, you can use whatever version and whichever color. Lucky ducks.
There are so many highlighters on the market so you can really find whatever works for your face as well as your budget. Powders, sticks, creams, bases. It's all there. Good luck and glow on.
