Smashbox Contour Stick Trio*

As a rule, I try to keep things as simple as possible, and my beauty regime is no exception. The last thing I want to be doing at 6am is fiddling around with a million different pieces of makeup. Seriously, I just can’t deal with that before a large cup of coffee in the morning! Despite my somewhat minimalistic tendencies, I’ve been toying with the idea of trying out a bit of subtle contouring, and thankfully, Smashbox have made it foolproof thanks to their new Contour Stick Trio which condenses a rather complicated idea down into three easy to use crayons.

The Contour Stick Trio consists of 3 crayons – a bronze shade, contour shade and highlighter plus a handy sharpener. the box even contains an easy to follow cheat sheet, so Kardashian-worthy cheek bones can be yours!

Since I don’t like looking too made up, I’ve been careful not to overdo the contouring, and I’ve been seriously impressed with how easy these sticks are to use, as well as the results I’ve been getting from them. Basically as long as you don’t go too crazy with them, they fake a good night’s sleep, as well as de-puff like nobody’s business! The colours of the Contouring Sticks are subtle enough that a whole range of skin tones are going to be able to fall in love with them, and I love that the highlighter just gives a subtle radiance rather than going too glittery or shiny.

For an easy day look, I apply my base of choice, then get the sticks out. After a touch of under-eye concealer, I draw little triangles under my eyes using the highlighter, I pop a stripe down my down, then fan a little of the highlighter between my brows and on the tops of my cheeks then add a little to my chin. I then stripe the contouring shade into the hollows of my cheeks, and finish by swiping the bronzing stick around my hairline, adding a little to the sides of my nose. I then blend like crazy so I’m no longer stripy. The formula of the Contour Sticks is absolutely dreamy. They are solid enough to be easily controlled, but once I start blending, they almost disappear into the skin, leaving a subtle amount of definition. I then finish my look with a quick swipe of blush and powder bronzer. If you’re heading somewhere exotic, these are perfect travelling companions since the formula is melt proof and they can be popped into the smallest of makeup bags. To stay looking pulled together, I’ve also been using the contour shade for some easy definition for my eyes! The sticks make contouring an absolute breeze, and they are convenient enough for daily use. What’s not to love!

Smashbox Contour Stick Trio is priced at £35.00 and is available here (UK) and here (US)