In makeup shading, which term refers to a color used to create shadows and definition?

• A. Highlight color
• B. Contour color
• C. Base color
• D. Accent color

Answer: (B)

In makeup shading, depth and definition come from using a contour color, which is a shade darker than the base skin tone. This lighter-to-darker contrast creates the look of natural shadows, helping features appear more sculpted. You apply contour color to areas you want to push back or define—cheek hollows, along the jawline, sides of the nose, and sometimes the temples or under the chin—to carve out structure and add dimension. Highlight color, by comparison, is used on high points of the face to bring forward; base color refers to the foundation that evenizes the skin, and accent color is a decorative or extra hue rather than a shading tool.