Another day, another TikTok trend trying to tell us how to do our makeup — and this time, it’s the contrast level theory taking over For You pages. But while it sounds like a quick hack for finding your most flattering glam, beauty pros are raising their (perfectly sculpted) brows.
The concept? Simple… almost too simple. According to the trend, you fall into one of three contrast categories based on the difference between your hair, eye, and skin color:
- High contrast (think: fair skin + dark features) = Bold makeup.
- Low contrast (light-on-light or deep-on-deep) = Soft and subtle.
- Medium contrast = You guessed it… somewhere in the middle.
Sounds neat and tidy — except real faces aren’t that easy to categorize. And according to makeup artists? This trend might be doing more harm than good.
Here’s the problem:
Contrast levels don’t factor in your actual features. Your bone structure, eye shape, lip volume, undertone — all the things that make your face uniquely yours — get totally ignored. That’s like choosing your foundation based on zodiac sign. Cute, but… no.
And then there’s the underlying issue: Rigid beauty rules are back. Just when we were finally embracing individualism in makeup, along comes another viral system that boxes people into do’s and don’ts.
Makeup artist-approved advice? Don’t let contrast levels dictate your face card. Instead, focus on:
- Your undertones (warm vs. cool).
- Eye and lip shape (what you want to highlight).
- Color theory (which tones enhance vs. dull your natural features).
- And most importantly, what makes you feel good when you look in the mirror.
Bottom line: If contrast levels helped you find a flattering beat, great. But don’t let the trend convince you your face is too much, too little, or not enough. Trends fade. Confidence doesn’t.