How To Tantour (That’s Tan-Contour) Your Face

How To 'Tontour' - That's Tan Contour

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by Daniela Morosini |
Updated on

Every time we think contouringis maybe, just maybe, going away, another bizarrely-named incarnation springs up in its place - like strobing, clown contouring and baking. Well, dear reader, we're here to assure you that today is no different. The craze du jour? Why, it's tontouring, of course.

Tontouring, to the uninitiated, is tan-contouring. Instead of using bronzer or contour powder to sculpt your cheekbones, this method involves self-tanner to give a more natural, sunkissed contour - even when you're not wearing makeup.

Confused? We were too, but the premise is simple. You apply fake tan to your face - ones with a guide colour work best - in the places you'd normally contour, like the hollows of your cheekbones and temples.

A-list tanning guru James Harknett has been doing 'tontouring' for years as part of his spray tanning services at the W Hotel to give a more naturally sculpted finish. He told us "Contouring with self-tan can be a little daunting for some, but it's easier than you think. First, you need a base - a natural tan from the sun or a thin layer of self-tanning mist will do the trick. Sienna X Express Tanning Mist, (£15.99) leaves a warm, subtle base if you haven't seen the sun this year. Three sweeps of mist down the face and neck is just enough to give an even glow."

@ModaMob Instagram
@ModaMob Instagram

"The next day is best for contouring the skin. The new Madame La La Face Serum (£28.00), is designed to work into the face like a foundation and is perfect for defining cheekbones. Pull a duck face, sucking in your cheeks, then using the corner of a tanning mitt or a makeup sponge, sweep the serum from underneath the cheek to the top of the ear.

"Start with just a pea sized amount on the mitt, and build up where needed. To finish, smooth down the sides of your nose and temples. Add a little moisturiser to the mitt and buff into the hairline."

We definitely agree with James that almost everyone looks better with a sunkissed glow. But yet another step on top of our already jam-packed beauty routines? Bye-bye, social life...

READ MORE: Everything you need to know about fake tanning

READ MORE: The Very Best Self-Tanners For Your Face, Whatever Your Skin Type

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