TikTok’s New Science-Backed Viral Contour Hack Has the Derm Stamp of Approval

TikTok loves a good beauty hack, and, let’s be honest, who doesn’t? The latest trend taking over the social app takes things a step further: it isn’t just dermatologist-approved; it was actually started by a dermatologist. Dr. Charles Puza, MD, known on TikTok as just Dr. Charles, shared a guide for contouring that he says is based on science and the principles of aesthetic beauty and everyone seems on board.

For his technique, Dr. Charles begins by using a contour stick to draw a diagonal line from the outer corner of the eye to the corner of the mouth. He draws a second line from the ala (which is halfway down the side of your nostril) to the tragus (which is the part of your ear that protrudes from the side of your face).

Then, he begins to draw another line, starting at the tragus and following the second line. When he nears the intersection of the two original lines, which he says should meet at the point of maximal projection on your face, he begins to curve the new line down until it reaches the first line, which he then traces over until he reaches the corner of the mouth. He says to contour along the new line in downward motions so that everything under the point of maximal projection is shaded.

Dr. Charles’ original video has accumulated over two million views on TikTok now as users try out the contouring hack for themselves. Even Nikkie de Jager, a.k.a. @NikkieTutorials, gave it a chance in a new video. Despite her initial shock and note that contouring line trends just keep getting higher and higher, it seems like this method earned her stamp of approval, though she suggests using a light hand. She best describes the effect as “Skinny evil Disney villain legend.” We’d have to agree.

If you’re looking to try this new contour hack (or perhaps another TikTok-viral contour trend), we’ve got you covered. Scroll on to see what the influencers seem to be using, as well as some of our favorite contour products: