In a world where beauty trends come and go like the changing seasons, contrast makeup has taken centre stage on TikTok, and I have to admit, this one might actually be worth your time. As MYKITCO’s beauty editor, I'm always exploring new ways to personalise makeup, and contrast makeup is all about enhancing your features in a way that flatters your unique combination of hair, eye colour, and skin tone.
The contrast makeup concept was first introduced by French makeup artist Ali Enor in a viral TikTok video. It’s all about identifying your "contrast level"; low, medium, or high — and matching your makeup choices to that level for a naturally flattering look.
But what exactly is contrast makeup, and how can you make it work for you? I gave it a test drive, and here’s what I found…
Contrast makeup categorises people into three groups: low contrast, medium contrast, and high contrast. To find your contrast level, you can use Enor’s TikTok filter or simply analyse your features. High contrast means there’s a stark difference between your features, like very light skin and dark hair or deep skin and light eyes. Medium contrast typically involves moderate differences, like light skin with medium brown hair. Low contrast means your features are similar in tone, like fair skin with blonde hair or medium skin with brown eyes and hair.
Here’s the rule of thumb:
- Low Contrast: Go for soft, minimal looks that don’t overwhelm your natural harmony. Think no-makeup makeup that keeps things fresh and simple.
- Medium Contrast: Aim for a balanced look — a slightly smoky eye with a natural lip, or a subtle lip colour with gentle eye makeup.
- High Contrast: Embrace bold choices that add drama, like a deep red lip or dark eyeliner, to complement the contrast in your features.
Once I figured out my light contrast level, I decided to put the theory to the test and see if adjusting my makeup made a noticeable difference.
My Contrast Makeup Experiment
As someone with light contrast, the theory suggested that a natural look would suit me best. I chose to go soft on my eyes and keep my lips understated for this trial. I used
Here’s what I used from my MYKITCO collection:
- Face: I wanted to create a super soft look to compliment my low contrast level so I reached for the 0.18 - MY STIPPLING FOUNDATION for the lightest foundation application. I paired this with the 0.21 - MY FLAWLESS FACE small, 0.32 - MY AIRBRUSH CONTOUR and 0.24 PRO - MY BLUSH & POLISHER. Using slightly larger, fluffier brushes helped me to achieve a blown out, blended look that is advised for a lighter contrast level.
- Eye: For the eye I wanted a the softest wash of colour on the lids so grabbed the 1.29 - MY SHEER BLENDER. The long flexible fibres of this brush helped me to create the sheerest colour that brought out the colour of my light eyes.
Why Contrast Makeup Works
This trend’s appeal lies in its simplicity — it’s all about making the most of what you already have. With just a few small tweaks, I found myself with a fresh take on my usual look, but tailored to my own unique colouring. I love how this trend gives everyone a personalised approach to makeup, rather than a one-size-fits-all routine.
For those looking to try this out, I’d recommend starting with the brushes you trust. MYKITCO’s precise and high-quality brushes make experimenting with looks easy and effective, especially when focusing on bringing out your features with contrast.
Final Thoughts: Will I Keep Using Contrast Makeup?
Absolutely! Contrast makeup is the perfect way to make the most of your natural beauty with subtle tweaks. It’s easy to apply, requires minimal product, and leaves a polished, cohesive finish that feels personal.
So, whether you’re team low, medium, or high contrast, MYKITCO has everything you need to create your ideal look. Embrace the trend, experiment with contrast, and get ready to see your features pop like never before.
