The Return Of The Kontour Queen: 5 Major Things To Know About Kim Kardashian’s NEW Contour Stick (SKIMS Beauty 2026)

The world of beauty has been holding its breath for years, and as of late 2025, the wait is almost over. Since the abrupt discontinuation of the beloved KKW Beauty line, the biggest question on every makeup enthusiast’s mind has been: Will Kim Kardashian ever bring back the iconic Crème Contour Stick? The answer is a resounding yes, but not under the old name. Kim has officially confirmed that the cult-favorite contour sticks will be relaunched as part of the highly anticipated new SKIMS Beauty line, with a launch expected in 2026. This is the freshest, most critical update for anyone obsessed with the "Queen of Kontour" and her signature sculpted look.

The original KKW Beauty contour sticks didn't just sell out; they fundamentally reshaped the entire digital beauty landscape, making cream contouring a mainstream must-have. Now, with the promise of a relaunch, fans are eagerly anticipating an updated, potentially improved formula that aligns with Kim's current aesthetic and the massive global reach of her SKIMS brand. Here is everything you need to know about the legacy of the original stick, the confirmed new launch, and how to master the Kim K contour technique while you wait.

The Legacy: Why the KKW Beauty Crème Contour Stick Became a Cult Classic

When KKW Beauty launched in 2017, it did so with a single product: the Crème Contour and Highlight Kit. The launch was an immediate, historic success, reportedly raking in $14 million in just minutes. This instant pandemonium wasn't just due to Kim's star power; it was the product itself.

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The Formula That Changed the Game

The original KKW Beauty Contour Stick was lauded for its ultra-creamy, buildable formula. Unlike many contour powders that can look muddy or patchy, the cream stick was designed to glide on easily and blend out seamlessly, making the intimidating art of contouring accessible to the masses.

• Creamy Texture: The formula was known for its effortless glide, which was key to achieving a natural, airbrushed finish.
• Perfect Undertones: The shades were specifically formulated to be cool-toned, which is essential for creating a realistic shadow effect (a true "kontour"), avoiding the overly warm look of a bronzer.
• User-Friendly Design: The dual-ended format, often paired with a blending brush and sponge, simplified the entire process, turning a complex makeup technique into a three-step routine: draw, blend, and set.
• Skin-Friendly: The original formula was also noted for being hypoallergenic and free of common irritants like fragrance and gluten, appealing to a wider customer base.

The discontinuation of KKW Beauty left a massive hole in the market, turning the remaining sticks into coveted, high-priced relics. Fans immediately began searching for the best "KKW Beauty dupes" to replace their holy-grail product.

The Future of Sculpting: What to Expect from the SKIMS Beauty Contour Stick (2026)

The biggest news in the beauty world is the official confirmation from Kim Kardashian herself that the contour stick is returning under the new SKIMS Beauty umbrella. This marks a new chapter for her beauty empire, moving away from the "KKW" moniker.

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1. The Relaunch is Confirmed for 2026

While an exact launch date is still under wraps, multiple reports and Kim's own statements in late 2025 indicated that the SKIMS Beauty line, including the makeup and fragrance products, is "expected to launch next year," placing the contour stick's return firmly in the 2026 calendar. The anticipation is already immense, promising another internet-breaking launch.

2. A Focus on the "Major" Products

Kim has directly addressed the fan demand, promising that the first wave of SKIMS Beauty will include the most-missed items from KKW, specifically the lipliners and, of course, the contour sticks. This suggests that the core formula and shade range that made the original so successful will be revisited and potentially improved to meet modern beauty standards.

3. SKIMS Aesthetic: Elevated and Modern

The transition from KKW Beauty to SKIMS Beauty is expected to bring a more streamlined, elevated, and perhaps minimalist aesthetic, reflecting the growth and evolution of Kim's personal style and her SKIMS brand. Fans can likely expect new, sleek packaging and a focus on inclusive shade ranges that cater to the diverse SKIMS customer base.

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The Kim K Kontour Technique: Mastering the 'Snatch'

The contour stick is just a tool; the technique is the true secret behind Kim Kardashian’s perpetually "snatched" look. This method, often credited to her longtime makeup artist, Mario Dedivanovic, emphasizes strategic placement to define and lift the face.

Step-by-Step Application for Sculpted Features

To achieve the signature Kim K contour, you must focus on creating shadows in the areas where light naturally recedes:

1. Cheekbones: Apply the cream contour stick directly into the hollows of your cheekbones, starting near the top of your ear and stopping just before the center of your eye. The line should be sharp and angled upwards for a lifting effect.
2. Forehead and Hairline: Apply the stick along the temples and hairline. This reduces the size of the forehead and adds dimension, creating a more balanced facial structure.
3. Jawline: Trace the stick directly under the jawbone. This sharpens the jawline and can help create the illusion of a more defined neck.
4. Nose Contour: Use a smaller, thinner brush or the edge of the stick to draw two fine lines down the sides of the nose, starting from the inner corner of the brow and ending at the tip. Connect the lines with a small horizontal shadow underneath the tip to create a button nose effect.

The Art of Blending for a Flawless Finish

The key to the Kim K look is blending—blending until your arm hurts. The goal is to diffuse the harsh lines into a seamless shadow, not a stripe of color. Use a dense, angled brush or a damp beauty sponge for the best results.

• Stipple, Don't Drag: Use light, tapping, or stippling motions to blend the cream. Avoid dragging the product, as this will move your foundation underneath and create a muddy look.
• Blend Upwards: Always blend the cheekbone contour upwards towards the temple, never downwards. This is what creates the coveted lifting effect.
• Set with Powder: After blending the cream contour, lightly dust a cool-toned contour powder on top to set the cream and intensify the shadow for all-day wear.

Alternatives and Dupes While You Wait for SKIMS Beauty

Since the SKIMS Beauty contour stick is not expected until 2026, many fans are looking for reliable alternatives that mimic the creamy formula and cool tones of the original KKW stick. These products have become popular "dupes" in the interim.

• NYX Wonder Stick: This dual-ended contour and highlight stick is one of the most frequently cited budget-friendly dupes for its similar format and creamy texture. It is excellent for beginners practicing the technique.
• Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Contour: While not a traditional stick, Selena Gomez's contour product is praised for its blendability and natural finish, which is highly reminiscent of the seamless look Kim K favors.
• LA Girl Velvet Hi-Lite Contour Stick: Another affordable option, this stick is known for its smooth application and good color payoff, making it a solid replacement for the discontinued KKW product.
• Makeup By Mario SoftSculpt® Shaping Stick: Given that Mario Dedivanovic is Kim's longtime makeup artist and a master of the contour technique, his own brand's shaping stick is a professional-grade alternative that delivers a flawless, sculpted finish.

The return of the contour stick under SKIMS Beauty is a major moment for the cosmetics industry. It’s a testament to the enduring influence of Kim Kardashian and her status as the ultimate "Queen of Kontour." While the 2026 launch date requires a bit more patience, the promise of a new and improved version of the product that started it all is enough to keep the beauty community buzzing.