Highlighters have become a staple in the makeup world, and for good reason. A well-placed highlighter can make a face come alive, accentuating cheekbones, brow bones, and other features to create a radiant, glowing complexion.
Shimmer and shine are the name of the game when it comes to highlighters, with a wide range of formulas and finishes available to suit every skin tone and desired level of glam. But with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the perfect product.
This guide will break down the types of highlighter formulas, the benefits of each finish, and provide tips for application to help you achieve your best, most radiant look yet. From subtle sheen to full-on glow, shimmer and shine like never before with this sparkling guide to highlighters.
The Rise of Highlighters
Highlighters have become a staple in every makeup lover’s collection. From subtle glow to blinding beam, this product has evolved over the years and is now available in various types, shades, and formulas. But how did it all start?
Early Days
The history of highlighters dates back to the 1950s when makeup artists started using white or silver eyeshadows on the brow bone and cupid’s bow to add dimension and radiance. However, the product was not specifically made for highlighting purposes.
Revolutionized in the 90s
It wasn’t until the 90s when the makeup industry revolutionized with the release of Benefit’s High Beam, a pink-toned liquid highlighter that quickly became a cult favorite.Other brands soon followed, and highlighters became a must-have in every makeup routine.
- Today’s Market
- Fast forward to today, highlighters are available in various formula types:
- powder
- liquid
- cream
- stick
- They come in different shades, from gold, champagne, pink, and blue to name a few, catering to every skin tone and need.
- The rise of highlighters also paved the way for new makeup application techniques, such as strobing and baking, where highlighting plays a significant role.
Overall, the increase in popularity of highlighters shows no signs of slowing down, and we can expect to see new innovations and diversity in products in the years to come.
Types of Highlighters
Liquid Highlighters
Liquid highlighters are one of the most popular types of highlighters. They come in small vials and can be applied with a brush or a sponge. They dry quickly and offer a subtle sheen, perfect for a natural-looking glow. Some liquid highlighters can also be mixed with foundation or moisturizer for an all-over glow.
Powder Highlighters
Powder highlighters are a great option for those with oily skin as they offer a matte finish. They come in a compact form and are applied with a brush. They offer a more dramatic glow compared to liquid highlighters. They are also perfect for layering on top of liquid highlighters to add dimension.
Cream Highlighters
Cream highlighters are perfect for those with dry skin as they offer a dewy finish. They come in a stick form and can be applied directly to the skin. They are easy to blend and can be used on the cheeks, nose, and brow bone for a radiant glow. You can also use them as a base for powder highlighters for a more intense glow.
Stick Highlighters
Stick highlighters are perfect for those on-the-go. They offer a sheer, shimmery finish and are designed for easy application. They come in an easy-to-use stick form and can be applied directly to the skin without the need for additional tools.They are perfect for touch-ups throughout the day.
- Liquid highlighters are perfect for a natural-looking glow
- Powder highlighters offer a more dramatic glow
- Cream highlighters are perfect for those with dry skin
- Stick highlighters are perfect for those on-the-go
Choosing the Right Highlighter for Your Skin Tone
Understanding Your Skin Tone
Before selecting a highlighter, it's important to determine your skin tone. Skin tones typically fall into three categories: cool, warm, and neutral. Cool skin tones have pink, red, or blue undertones, while warm skin tones have yellow and peach undertones. Neutral skin tones have a combination of both cool and warm undertones. To determine your skin tone, look at the veins on your wrist. If they appear blue or purple, you likely have a cool undertone. If they appear green, you likely have a warm undertone. If you can't tell, you may have a neutral tone.
Selecting a Highlighter
Once you've determined your skin tone, it's time to choose a highlighter that will complement it. If you have a cool skin tone, opt for a highlighter with pink or silver undertones. This will give your skin a fresh, luminous look. Warm skin tones pair well with gold or bronze highlighters, which will add warmth and depth to the skin. Neutral skin tones can get away with using a wide range of highlighters, but those with champagne undertones tend to work particularly well.
Application Techniques
No matter what highlighter you choose, proper application is key. Start by applying a small amount to the highest points of your face, such as the tops of your cheekbones, the bridge of your nose, and the cupid's bow. Blend the product outwards with a brush or your fingers, being careful not to apply too much. Remember, the goal is to create a subtle, natural-looking glow, not a disco ball effect.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right highlighter can make all the difference in how your skin looks and feels.By selecting a shade that complements your skin tone and applying it with a light hand, you can achieve a radiant, glowing complexion that looks beautiful in any light. Don't be afraid to experiment with different shades and techniques to find the perfect highlighter for your individual needs!
How to Apply Highlighter for a Natural Glow
Step 1: Prep your Skin
Before applying highlighter, it’s important to prep your skin. Cleanse, tone, and moisturize your skin based on your skin type. Use a lightweight moisturizer for oily skin and a heavier one for dry skin. Wait for a few minutes to let the moisturizer sink in before applying makeup.
Step 2: Choose the Right Shade
Choosing the right shade of highlighter is important to achieve a natural glow. Fair skin tones should opt for champagne and pink shades. Medium skin tones can choose rose gold and peach shades. Deep skin tones should go for gold and bronze shades.
Step 3: Apply Highlighter on High Points of Your Face
Apply highlighter on the high points of your face where the light naturally hits. These include the cheekbones, brow bones, bridge of your nose, and cupid’s bow. Use a fan brush to apply highlighter on these areas in a sweeping motion.
Step 4: Blend, Blend, Blend
Blend the highlighter properly to achieve a seamless and natural finish. Use your fingers or a damp beauty sponge to blend the highlighter in circular motions.
Step 5: Go Lightly
Less is more when it comes to applying highlighter for a natural glow. Build up the intensity slowly and focus on blending the product in well. You don’t want a streaky or patchy finish.
Step 6: Set with a Setting Spray
Finally, set the highlighter with a setting spray to make it last longer. This will also give a more natural finish and get rid of any excess powderiness.
Using the right technique and products, you can achieve a natural glow with highlighter easily. So go ahead and try this out for yourself!
Best Highlighters on the Market
1.Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector
The Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector is a cult favorite and for a good reason. The formula is highly pigmented and adds a beautiful glow to the skin without looking too shimmery or glittery. It comes in a variety of shades to suit different skin tones and has a silky smooth texture.
2. Fenty Beauty Killawatt Freestyle Highlighter
Fenty Beauty is known for its inclusive shade range and their Killawatt Freestyle Highlighter is no exception. The formula is buildable and blendable, allowing for a subtle glow or a blinding highlight. It comes in duos with complementary shades, making it easy to create a dimensional look.
3. Hourglass Ambient Lighting Powder
The Hourglass Ambient Lighting Powder is a unique highlighter that adds a soft-focus glow to the skin. It blurs imperfections and enhances the overall look of the complexion. It comes in a variety of shades, each with a different finish, from a subtle sheen to a metallic shimmer.
4. Benefit Cosmetics Watt's Up! Cream-to-Powder Highlighter
The Benefit Cosmetics Watt's Up! Cream-to-Powder Highlighter is a versatile product that can be used to add a subtle sheen or a bold highlight. The formula is easy to blend and has a cream-to-powder finish, making it long-lasting and perfect for oily skin. It comes with a built-in blender for easy application.
5. Natasha Denona Super Glow Highlighter
The Natasha Denona Super Glow Highlighter is a high-end product that delivers a powerful glow to the skin. The formula is smooth and silky, and it comes in four shades, ranging from a cool-toned pink to a warm peachy gold. It is highly pigmented and long-lasting, making it worth the splurge.
- Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector
- Fenty Beauty Killawatt Freestyle Highlighter
- Hourglass Ambient Lighting Powder
- Benefit Cosmetics Watt's Up! Cream-to-Powder Highlighter
- Natasha Denona Super Glow Highlighter
