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If there’s one thing TikTok does best, it’s pulling us out of our comfort zones and into makeup trends that are as bold as they are gorgeous. The latest trend sweeping the For You Page? Contrast makeup. This look is all about playing up opposites – think soft, ethereal eyes paired with a dark lip or glowing cheeks with a statement eye. Contrast makeup invites everyone to rethink the usual monochromatic look and try a new approach with high-impact details. Here’s the lowdown on the trend, plus my favorite beauty editor picks to help this trend work for you.
What is Contrast Makeup?
Contrast makeup isn’t just about playing with color; it’s rooted in an editorial-style technique that’s become a must-have thanks to TikTok’s most influential beauty creators. The concept started when popular creators began pulling editorial looks right off magazine pages and onto their faces, giving us all a front-row seat to how high-contrast makeup can transform a look. These TikTok artists were inspired by a classic art theory known as chiaroscuro—think sharp, light-and-dark contrasts that create depth and dimension (because who doesn’t want to feel like a walking masterpiece, right?). In makeup, this technique means playing up one feature with intensity and keeping everything else softly blended for balance.
The real beauty of this trend? It’s super adaptable! Contrast makeup lets you highlight your best features, whether that means a dramatic eye with subtle lips or a daring lip with soft, glowy cheeks. As you tailor your own look, you’re playing with color theory, balancing light and dark for a totally custom vibe that flatters your natural tones and features.
How to Tell if You’re High or Low Contrast
Knowing your natural contrast level can make a huge difference in achieving the perfect contrast makeup look that complements your unique features.
High Contrast
You have high contrast if there’s a stark difference between your hair, skin, and eyes. Think dark hair with fair skin or bright blue eyes with dark features. Celebrities like Megan Fox or Anne Hathaway are classic examples. High-contrast individuals can effortlessly pull off bolder looks—think deep lips and smoky eyes that really pop.
@the.olivia.sage a different take on high contrast makeup! 🖤🥀🪽✨ @Saie lip liner in tease @makeupforever artist pencil in universal earth @makeupbymario moisture glow in pomegranate glow #highcontrastmakeup #makeupcontrast #makeuptutorial #darkfemininemakeup #frenchgirlmakeup #nomascara #nomascaramakeup #fallmakeup #darkautumn ♬ son original - Phil Smith
Low Contrast
You have low contrast if there’s a more subtle blend between your hair, skin, and eye colors. For instance, those with light brown hair, fair skin, and light eyes. Low-contrast types (like Jennifer Aniston) look amazing with softer tones that don’t overwhelm their features. You can still play with contrast makeup but in a gentler, more natural way.
@adisonjustis save this video if youre low contrast for makeup inspo 🩷✨ products: @Hourglass Cosmetics skin veil tint @Westman-Atelier contour stick “truffle” @rhode skin blush “freckle” @NARS Cosmetics concealer @chantecaille bronzer @Kosas blush is life “swoon” @Benefit Cosmetics gimme brow @makeupforever artist pencil “limitless brown” @Diorbeauty highlighter palette “universal” @Charlotte Tilbury lip liner “iconic nude” @Olehenriksen ♬ chemtrails over the country club - coquette sounds
Makeup Tips Based on Your Contrast Level
For High Contrast: Go bold! Try pairing a deep, dramatic lip with lighter eyes or, for a night out, a classic red lip with a soft eye shimmer. High-intensity hues work beautifully, so don’t shy away from intense shades and striking lines.
For Low Contrast: Stick to a balanced approach, using softer, more diffused colors. Pair a subtle smoky eye with a light lip or a gentle rosy blush with a slightly darker nude lip. Sheer products and natural tones add contrast without overpowering.
Contrast makeup is all about stepping outside your usual beauty routine, so have fun with it! TikTok may have birthed this trend, but it’s definitely here to stay, bringing with it endless ways to mix, match, and highlight your favorite features.
Product Picks for the Contrast Makeup Look
Want to achieve the contrast makeup trend effortlessly? Here’s a curated lineup with just one must-have product from each key category to create a balanced, high-impact look:
- Lashes: Falscara DIY Lash Extensions– These versatile wisps create just the right amount of drama to accentuate your eyes without stealing the show.
- Nails: KISS Gel Fantasy Sculpted Nails in “Late At Night” – This rich, dramatic shade perfectly complements a contrast look, adding a sophisticated finish.
- Lips: ColourPop Lux Velvet Liquid Lipstick in “Lucky Cat” – A bold, velvety red lip that stands out, making it ideal for a high-contrast style.
- Foundation: Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Foundation – This long-wearing, full-coverage foundation provides a flawless canvas that lets your highlighted feature shine.
- Cheek: Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush in “Joy” – A bright, natural blush that gives a soft pop of color, balancing a bold lip or eye look beautifully.
- Eyeshadow:– PATRICK TA Major Dimension Eye Illusion Eyeshadow Duos This glittery metallic shadow duo adds just the right shimmer, perfect for a subtle but striking eye highlight.
