How do I lighten one side of my face in Photoshop?

One way to lighten one side of your face in Photoshop involves using a Curves adjustment layer and a mask. Here's how:

1. Create a Curves Adjustment Layer: Go to Layer > New Adjustment Layer > Curves. This will allow you to adjust the brightness levels of your image.

2. Brighten the Entire Image (Temporarily): In the Curves panel, click on the curve line and drag it upwards. This will lighten the entire image, but don't worry; we'll fix that in the next steps.

3. Invert the Mask: The Curves adjustment layer comes with a white layer mask by default. Invert this mask by selecting it and pressing Ctrl + I (Windows) or Cmd + I (Mac). This will hide the brightening effect we just created. Your image should now look the same as it did originally.

4. Paint with White on the Mask: Select the Brush tool (B). Ensure your foreground color is set to white. Now, paint on the side of the face you want to lighten. As you paint with white on the inverted mask, the brightening effect of the Curves adjustment will be revealed only in the areas you paint. Use a soft brush with a low opacity (e.g., 10-20%) for a more gradual and natural effect. Build up the effect slowly by painting over the area multiple times.

5. Adjust the Curve: If the brightening effect is too strong or too weak, double-click the Curves adjustment layer icon in the Layers panel to reopen the Curves properties. Adjust the curve to fine-tune the brightness.

6. Fine-Tune the Mask: If you accidentally paint on areas you didn't intend to, switch your foreground color to black and paint on the mask to hide the brightening effect in those areas.

Tips for a Natural Look:

• Use a soft brush with low opacity.
• Build up the effect gradually.
• Pay attention to the highlights and shadows on the face.
• Adjust the curve until you achieve the desired result.
• Consider using the Dodge and Burn tools for subtle adjustments after the main lightening.