New Jersey State Board Esthetics Practice Exam

What are contouring and highlighting used for in aesthetics?

1. To eliminate blemishes

2. To enhance facial features or even out facial structure

3. To create a natural look

4. To remove excess oil

The correct answer is: To enhance facial features or even out facial structure

Contouring and highlighting are techniques used in aesthetics primarily to enhance facial features and achieve a more balanced facial structure. By strategically applying darker shades (contouring) to certain areas of the face, you can create the illusion of depth and define specific features, such as the cheekbones or jawline. Conversely, highlighting involves using lighter, reflective products to draw attention to areas that catch light, such as the cheekbones, brow bones, or the bridge of the nose, making those areas appear more prominent. These techniques work together to create dimension on the face, allowing for a sculpted appearance that enhances natural beauty and individual characteristics. This is especially important in makeup artistry, where creating a visually pleasing balance is key to a polished and professional look. Other options focus on different aspects of aesthetic practice. For example, eliminating blemishes pertains more to concealing imperfections rather than reshaping or highlighting facial structure, which is why it does not relate directly to the purpose of contouring and highlighting. Creating a natural look relates to the overall application but does not specifically address the sculpting aspect of contouring and highlighting. Removing excess oil is a skincare concern rather than a makeup technique, which is also outside the scope of these cosmetic applications.