New Jersey State Board Esthetics Practice Exam

What is the purpose of contouring and highlighting in makeup?

1. To create a dramatic effect

2. To achieve an oval face shape

3. To enhance eyelid features

4. To increase lip volume

The correct answer is: To achieve an oval face shape

Contouring and highlighting play a significant role in makeup application, primarily aimed at enhancing the natural structure of the face. The correct choice articulates that the purpose of these techniques is to achieve an oval face shape. This is accomplished by using contour shades to create shadows and definition in specific areas such as the cheekbones, jawline, and forehead, while highlighters are applied to areas that naturally catch light, such as the cheekbones and brow bone. By strategically applying darker shades where one wants to recede or create the illusion of depth and lighter shades where one desires to accentuate features, makeup artists can visually manipulate the face to resemble that of an oval shape, which is considered ideal in many beauty standards. This technique can enhance the overall symmetry and balance of the facial structure. The other options do not accurately capture the primary intent of contouring and highlighting: creating a dramatic effect typically refers to using bold colors or styles rather than sculpting the face; enhancing eyelid features or increasing lip volume are specific to eye makeup and lip products respectively and do not relate to the technique of contouring and highlighting on the face.