Contouring is a makeup technique that involves manipulating light and shadow to enhance and define how your face looks. By strategically applying darker shades to areas that recede, such as the hollows of the cheeks and the sides of your nose, and lighter shades to areas that protrude, like the cheekbones and brow bones, contouring creates the illusion of more sculpted features.You can contour before foundation or after foundation—it’s really up to you and the effect you’re seeking.