If You Like a Soft, Sculpted Makeup Look, You Need to Know About This Product

Remember the days when everyone was obsessed with a sharp contour? I used to apply endless amounts of bronzer to try and get that sculpted finish, but it never looked quite right on me. However, thanks to the rise of beauty trends such as underpainting (I owe you one, Mary Phillips), softer makeup looks have taken over, involving cream-based products that easily blend into the skin. As more of a minimal makeup fan, I've been loving this transition, and I'm all about the "less is more" approach, especially when it comes to contouring my cheeks. These days, I like something quick and easy that I know will leave me with naturally defined cheekbones and a warm flush of colour. So, when I saw the Westman Atelier Trace Face Contour Stick pop up on my TikTok feed, I was desperate to give it a go.

If you're not yet familiar with Westman Atelier, this luxury beauty brand was founded by makeup artist to the stars Gucci Westman, who is known for her more minimal approach that lets skin shine through. The products are some of the chicest around and the contour stick is no exception. That being said, I was intrigued to know if the formula would live up to the hype (and the price tag). So, keep on scrolling for my honest review…

First things first, let's get into the formula. The creamy stick contains berryflux vita extract and organic jojoba oil to help hydrate the skin and strengthen its barrier. I personally love a makeup product that also comes with skincare benefits, so this was a big plus in my eyes. According to the website, the formula has been designed not to interfere with other makeup products, but instead to blend seamlessly into the skin. Whilst I was researching the product, one thing I noticed is that there are currently only three shades to choose from, and it would be nice to see a larger range from the brand in the future. I opted for the shade Biscuit, as it seemed like the best match for my skin tone.

One thing I really want to talk about is the packaging. I mean, look how sleek it is?! Housed in a black and gold tube, the product feels super luxe, which is what you'd expect from the slightly higher price point (over £40). All you have to do is twist the contour stick upwards and you're good to go. It's so easy to throw in your bag if you're on the go and you can also purchase a mini size which is ideal for travelling.

The best thing about this contour stick is that you can use it however you want. I personally prefer swiping it straight onto my skin, as I find it easier to carve out my cheekbones that way. If you don't like doing that though, then you could also use a stippling brush and pick up some product before applying it to the skin. Thanks to the creamy formula it's super easy to blend, and I found that using both a stippling brush and my fingers worked well at getting that natural-looking finish.

All in all, I'm seriously impressed by this contour stick. It feels so luxurious to use, the formula is super blendable and it gives me that naturally sculpted look that I've been after. I can see it staying in my makeup bag for years to come thanks to how quick and easy it is for both at-home and on-the-go application. It's definitely more of an investment in terms of a makeup item, and I do believe that there are other, more affordable contour sticks on the market that also do a great job, but if you want to elevate your makeup routine, then Westman Atelier is definitely a brand to try.

Pros: Creamy formula, easy to use, chic packaging and creates the perfect contour.

Cons: Expensive and the shade range is limited.

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