Choosing the right makeup can be tricky with so many options and trends. One popular trend on TikTok, “contrast makeup theory,” offers a fresh approach to finding shades that truly suit you.
Read on to learn how this theory can elevate your makeup game and simplify your shade selection!
The Lowdown on Contrast Makeup Theory
Contrast makeup theory is all about highlighting your natural beauty by recognising the differences in your appearance, particularly the contrast between your skin tone, hair, eyebrows, and eye colour.
@alieenor My favourite glow up tip is playing with contrast to get more confidence ✨ #contrastlevel #mediumcontrast #highcontrast #emmawatson
Created by French makeup artist Aliénor, this trend encourages you to craft makeup routines based on how much contrast there is between these features.
Source: @stxph.h/TikTok (left to right: low, medium, & high contrast)
The theory divides your features into three distinct levels of contrast: high, medium, and low. Each level indicates the variation in brightness among your natural features. Here’s a quick overview of what each category means:
- High Contrast: People with dramatic differences in their features, like dark hair with fair skin or bright eyes with deep skin tones, fall into this category.
- Medium Contrast: This is a noticeable contrast but not overly sharp—think medium skin tones with dark eyes and hair or fair skin with medium brown hair.
- Low Contrast: People with subtle, blended features, such as light hair, fair skin, and soft-coloured eyes, are typically low contrast.
Those with very light skin and dark hair exhibit high contrast, whereas someone with similar light features might display low contrast.
Understanding your contrast level allows you to select makeup shades that enhance your individual beauty, helping your features stand out and achieve a balanced overall look.
Related read: Discovering Your “Visual Weight” Will Be A Game-Changer for Your Makeup Routine
How to Determine My Contrast
Source: @stylingbypriest/TikTok
The contrast makeup theory has inspired a popular TikTok filter that helps users discover their contrast level. Many people are hopping on this trend, using the filter to see how their unique features come together.
If you’re interested in giving it a try, here’s how:
- Search for the filter: Look for the “Contrast Theory” filter, which uses your selfie to help identify your contrast type.
- Use natural lighting: Stand in natural light for the best results, as artificial lighting can affect the filter’s accuracy.
- Interpret the results: The filter should give you a rough idea of your contrast type.
Just remember, it’s a rough tool. For those with medium to deeper skin tones, the filter may occasionally misinterpret undertones, and individuals with blended or distinctive features might not receive a clear-cut result.
@stylingbypriest I love how straightforward this filter is for finding your contrast! Just remember there are other factors that determine your season! #colorseason #stylingbypriest @✨🪞Priest🪞✨
Creator @stylingbypriest gave the contrast makeup trend filter a go on TikTok and pointed out that to really get a grip on your colouring, you should think about a few key things like undertone, contrast, depth, and saturation, which is all about intensity.
The Differences Between Each Makeup Contrast
Everyone has their own unique shades and colours, so think of these examples as just starting points. Once you figure out your contrast level, you can discover the style that suits you best!
Low Contrast Makeup
Source: @keniglo/TikTok
Low contrast makeup means there’s a slight difference in tone between your hair, eyes, and skin. When these features are similar, your overall vibe is soft and dreamy instead of bold and eye-catching.
If you have low contrast, the “no-makeup” makeup look is perfect for you! It helps you achieve a fresh, natural look that highlights your delicate features without overpowering them.
@keniglo Low contrast makeup inspo for medium skintone, yang paling sering aku pakai untuk daily makeupku #lowcontrastmakeup #contrastlevel #makeuptutorial #makeup #beautytok
DV Makeup Tip: Use minimal makeup techniques to enhance the beauty of your low-contrast features. A light touch with makeup—such as a swipe of mascara, barely-there blush, and a touch of lip gloss creates a fresh, simple look. This approach keeps everything balanced and in harmony with your natural tones.
Medium Contrast Makeup
Source: @evalarosaxo/TikTok
Compared to low contrast, medium contrast showcases a noticeable yet balanced difference in tone between your hair, eyes, and skin. With these features having some variation, the overall look strikes a nice blend of softness and boldness, offering you more makeup options.
If you have medium contrast, combining subtle and defined makeup elements can work wonders, helping you achieve a polished appearance without feeling overwhelmed.
@evalarosaxo which contrast you need next?ib: @Alieenor 🧡 PRODUCTS: • @Florasis Shop concealer palette • @Yepoda multi balm peach • @ILIA Beauty lip balm in memoir • @Charlotte Tilbury hollywood blush & glow palette • @PLOUISE blend away palette 2022 • @essence cosmetics gimme glow highlighter in 10 • @L’Oréal Paris lash paradise mascara in marron intense • iliabeauty lip oil in petals #contrastlevel #mediumcontrast #contrastmakeup #makeuphacks #makeuphackstutorial #makeup #makeuptutorial
DV Makeup Tip: A little eyeliner can define your eyes, and a bit of natural blush gives you that fresh, healthy look. And don’t skip out on a fun lip colour too! This way, you’ll rock a polished look that feels super easy.
High Contrast Makeup
Source: @minaamouse16/TikTok
High contrast makeup highlights a significant difference between your features, unlike low and medium contrast. When your hair, eyes, and skin tone are distinct from one another, the overall look becomes bold and attention-grabbing, offering plenty of dramatic makeup possibilities.
If you have high contrast, going for a bolder makeup style can really enhance your features and give you a striking appearance.
@minaamouse016 Where are all my high contrast baddies? Ib: MUA @Alieenor 🧡 #makeuptutorial @IT Cosmetics @Armani beauty @Charlotte Tilbury @Patrick Ta Beauty @Kylie Cosmetics @r.e.m. beauty
DV Makeup Tip: Try some daring makeup styles to highlight your striking features. A sharp winged eyeliner, bright blush, and a standout lip colour can really amp up your look.
Featured image credits: @minaamouse16, @evalarosaxo, and @keniglo
