Should I Care About Contrast Makeup? Here’s What Makeup Artists Are Saying About This TikTok Hack

The theory is broken down into low, medium and high contrast levels. The experts explain what it all means below:

• Low Contrast: This refers to the subtle differences between your features. Raine explains, “People with low contrast tend to have similar tones in their skin, hair and eyes—meaning there isn’t a stark difference between them. For example, someone with light skin, blonde hair and light eyes would be considered low contrast. Their features blend together more softly rather than having bold noticeable distinctions.” Some notable celebrities with low contrast levels include Elle Fanning, Margot Robbie, Gisele Bündchen and Cynthia Erivo. 
• Medium Contrast: Raine tells me of medium contrast, “There’s a noticeable difference between a person’s features, but not as stark as high contrast. It typically involves a balance of tones between skin, hair and eyes, where the features stand out, but don’t create a dramatic effect like someone with medium-tan skin, brown hair and hazel eyes would have medium contrast. Celebrity examples include Jennifer Lopez, Zendaya, Beyoncé and Priyanka Chopra. 
• High Contrast: “There’s a bold difference between your features, like having fair skin with dark hair and eyes, or deep skin tone with bright, standout features,” Raine says. “It’s a striking combo that makes your features pop and cream a dramatic, eye-catching look. Celebrities with high contrast levels include Margaret Qualley, Naomi Campbell, Anne Hathaway and Lady Gaga. 

The experts suggest taking a clear photo of yourself (sans makeup) and lowering the saturation to grayscale (aka black and white). Or, you can simply use the viral TikTok filter made by Aliénor to figure out your contrast level. Whichever one you choose, spend time looking at your skin tone, as well as your eye, hair and brow color. 

I went for the filter and began comparing the image/myself in real time. After toggling between the levels, I discovered I lean more towards the medium contrast group. For context, I have dark hair, medium-tan skin tone and hazel eyes (just how Raine described the example for this group before). And it looks like I’m in good company, seeing as Beyoncé and Zendaya are considered medium contrast girlies, too. 

According to Paljevic, the no-makeup makeup look works best for those with low contrast. Consider soft neutral shades (like beige, light brown or soft peach) and skin tints/concealers that complement your skin tone. Hot tip: “I recommend enhancing your features with soft, sheer pinks and making the skin look ethereal. Bold makeup can also work if you prefer that style, but I would recommend swapping harsh colors for softer, muted tones. For example, use brown over black eyeliner or mascara, and avoid wearing heavy black smokey eyes in favor of muted pink or neutral tones,” she says. 

If you’re looking for a perfect balanced look, try a subtle smokey eye, bronzer over contour and a glossy nude lip. It toes close to dramatic looks, but doesn’t go overboard and works to enhance your features (i.e., eyes and lips). As Pollara adds, “You’ll want products that define features, while maintaining a softer look. The goal is to enhance your features without going too bold or too subtle.” 

Check out beloved TikTok makeup trends like grunge makeup or unapproachable makeup. Or, maybe the color of the year is a sign to brighten up your look. “This is the perfect time to play with strong brow products, dramatic eyeshadows and sculpted cheeks,” says Raine. “Or, switch it up by focusing on a bold lip color with a sultry winged liner.”