Cream contour is the best shortcut to sculpting your face, and this £22 stick is my favourite

Otherwise, the placement is also one of the key differences between contouring and bronzing makeup products. Since the purpose of the former is to accentuate the shadows, you’d normally place the product in the hollows of your face (think underneath your cheekbones, sides of your nose, jawline etc). Meanwhile, bronzing products are usually applied on the areas where the sun would naturally hit your face (think the high point of your cheekbones, top of your forehead and so on).

That being said, we all know that when it comes to makeup, there are no set rules and it all comes down to having fun experimenting and figuring out what best works for you. So if you’re all about using a bronzer as contour, we’re definitely not here to judge.

How to apply cream contour

When it comes to cream contour, application is easier than ever. If you’re using a stick, simply swipe it across and blend it out using either a brush, a makeup sponge or your fingers. But if you want a bit more control when blending out the product, try opting for a compact cream contour instead. All you need is to coat your brush or a makeup sponge in the product and blend it all out using circular motions. But if you’re using a damp makeup sponge, just remember that it may soak up quite a lot of pigment so you may want to use it while it’s dry instead. And if you’re in need of more guidance, be sure to check out our step-by-step guide on how to contour.

But as is the case with most other makeup staples, there’s a wide range of options to choose from coming from notable brands like Fenty Beauty, MAC, L’Oreal, Rimmel, Anastasia Beverly Hills, Charlotte Tilbury and many, many more. To help you find the perfect cream contour product for you, we’ve put together a roundup of all the best cream contouring products out there.

We’ve scoured through options that are suitable for all skin tones and skin types, including both bronzers that can work as an alternative as well as cool-toned contouring products. You’ll find everything from affordable must-haves and premium buys to new releases and cult-favourites (including those that are loved in the GLAMOUR office).

We made sure to be very thorough by adding options to suit all skin types, skin tones, budgets and personal preferences too (and obviously, we made sure to add our tried-and-tested personal favourites). So sit back, relax and enjoy – hassle-free contouring is just a few clicks away…

For more beauty content from Glamour UK Commerce Writer Denise Primbet, follow her on Instagram @deniseprimbet.

Check out our edit of all the best cream contours available now…