How To Get Cheekbones For Days (Literally)

No one can deny the wonders of contouring. When done correctly, the makeup technique sculpts cheekbones, enhances facial features and creates dimension for an instant face lift using nothing more than clever placement of highlights and shadows. It’s no wonder that people want the results to last far longer than a day’s makeup application. 

Enter ‘tantouring’, the latest iteration of the contouring craze that promises cheekbones for days (literally). It has been used by professional spray tanners for years to prep celebrities for red carpet events as well as to create the illusion of muscle definition for any skin on show. Now, it’s possible to achieve pro results at home, assuming you have the right products and the know-how. 

Here’s everything you need to know, as well as the techniques to use to get the best results… 

What is ‘tantouring’?

Tantouring is a long-lasting sculpting technique that uses precise application of self-tan products where you would usually apply your contour powder or bronzer. 

How do I tantour my face? 

1. Prep your skin
   As with any self tan application, prep is key. Any hair removal should be done at least 24 hours prior, and you should exfoliate skin regularly (try Wonderscrub™ Bio-Dermabrasion Face Polish - it leaves skin unbelievably soft, just like you’ve had professional microdermabrasion) to ensure a smooth, streak free finish. 
   

2. Apply a base shade
   Many tantour advocates suggest applying one layer of self tan all over your face and neck as a ‘base’, in order to create a more natural looking result. The shade of your base should be lighter than the shade of self tan you use for tantouring. Awesome Bronze Gradual Self Tanning Drops provides a natural, healthy-looking, beautifully-golden glow - just add a few drops into your moisturiser the night before tantouring.
   
   

   

3. Apply a darker shade
   For your tantour product, use a darker shade of self tan that has a guide colour, which will help you to see exactly where you’ve applied it. The Awesome Bronze Super Formula No-streak Self Tanning Mousse is perfect - it has a guide colour, is fast-drying (so no smudges while it’s developing), plus it contains Hyaluronic Acid and Glycerin for hydration and a longer-lasting tan.
   
   For best results, put a few pumps into your hand (use a tanning mitt or wash hands immediately after) and use a makeup brush to apply, like the Pro Angled Cheek Brush for precise application and seamless blending. For areas that require very precise application (for example, if you want to tantour your nose to make it look slimmer, or shorter) pinch the brush hairs so they are flat and, therefore, able to paint on a thin line.

4. After the tan has developed, rinse and admire!
   If you’re using Awesome Bronze Mousse, it can be rinsed off as quickly as 4 hours after application, although for deeper results, leave on for up to 8 hours. Then, all that’s left to do is admire your chiseled cheekbones and snatched jawline for days on end.