Contouring is one of my favorite makeup steps because it enhances the facial structure and gives the illusion of more defined features. It adds that little sumthin’-sumthin’ that makes all the difference. However, we can agree (hopefully) that when done heavily or with the wrong product, it can look quite distasteful. That is why I have been raving about Alima Pure Sombra Powder since I tried a sample a few months ago. It is one of the very few products that truly conveyed my ideal of contour powder into reality (we all know about the amazing Kevyn Aucoin Sculpting Powder – but we also know about the multiple types of parabens in it).
I received a sample of the Sombra Contour Powder during the Christmas Holidays, when the Me Encanta collection designed by Kristen Arnett was launched, and I fell in love with this product immediately. You may remember that I mentioned it in my monthly favorites (and you may remember how upset I was for not picking up more since it was a limited edition product at the time). If you look at the color of this powder you can tell that it has been designed by a makeup artist because the shade is just perfect–not too warm, not too ashy, and with a subtle golden undertone that can make the product work as a bronzer as well. The shade would probably be flattering on any skin tone from fair to medium. It is completely matte, richly pigmented, and blends beautifully.
I like to apply Sombra Contour Powder with the Wayne Goss brushes #2 or #12. Brush #2 is smaller and more appropriate for precise application, which makes a great brush to apply highlighter as well. Brush #12 is larger and can be used to blend the product on the sides of the face, temples, hair line, jaw line, and neck. Wayne Goss brushes are cruelty-free, but not vegan, and they are excellent brushes that are handmade in Japan. If you are vegan, I recommend this angled blush brush 07.
Although I am not really fond of loose powders, the package of Sombra has a clever twisting mechanism that allows you to regulate the amount of product that you want to use and lock the rest of the product in, which prevents waste and spills. I ended up pressing my little sample of Sombra into a glass cosmetic jar (which turned out to be really convenient). However, I will not do it with my full-size jar, because I have had no issues at all with this packaging.
Bottom line is that I love this product and it is now a staple in my makeup bag. If Alima Pure didn’t make this powder a part of their permanent collection I would probably be begging them to do it. That is all. (Edit: it is now part of their permanent collection and you can find it here!)