Face highlighter is a makeup product that’s often unfairly overlooked. Many people consider illuminating products unnecessary, and some believe there’s no place for them in everyday makeup. But that’s a big misconception!
The right highlighter (both in terms of formula and shade) can be a game-changer, instantly adding a healthy glow, accentuating features, and giving a refreshed, youthful look. Here’s how to use face highlighters in your makeup, apply them correctly, and what to look for when purchasing one.
What forms does face highlighter come in?
When highlighters first became popular, they were mainly available as pressed powders, like bronzers and blushes. And like these two contouring cosmetics, at present face highlighters also appear in other forms. You can choose from:
- cream highlighter – usually packaged in a tube or a bottle with an applicator, similar to lip gloss;
- liquid highlighter;
- stick or crayon highlighter;
- loose powder – often used on larger areas, like collarbones or the décolletage, not just the face;
- pressed powder – the most versatile and easy to use.
The choice of formula depends on several factors. The most important is your skin type. Oily skin is best suited to a loose powder highlighter, while it’s better to avoid cream and stick formulas. Liquid or cream highlighters, on the other hand, are ideal for normal, dry, and mature skin. A pressed powder highlighter is suitable for all skin types.
How to choose the right highlighter shade
For a subtle, healthy glow, it’s important to choose a highlighter that complements your natural skin tone. The rule of thumb is: the lighter your complexion, the lighter the highlighter should be. First, determine your undertone – whether it’s warm or cool.
An easy way to do this is by looking at the veins on your wrist: if your veins appear greenish, you likely have a warm undertone. In this case, choose a highlighter with warm tones like peach, gold, or caramel. If your veins look more bluish, you likely have a cool undertone. In such a case so go for a highlighter with silvery or cool pink hues. If you’re unsure about your undertone, neutral shades like ivory or champagne are safe bets and work well for most skin tones.
When selecting a highlighter, consider not only its colour but also its finish. If we plan to use highlighter mainly for daytime makeup, opt for one with minimal shimmer that provides a subtle sheen. Products with larger, more pronounced glitter particles or even full-on glitter are better suited for evening looks, parties, or a carnival ball.
How to apply highlighter on your face
Highlighter can be applied in various ways, similar to bronzer and blush, depending on the effect you want to achieve.
You can use highlighter as part of your contouring routine (more on that shortly), as the final step in your daytime or evening makeup, or even as the only adornment on a bare face (as long as you have perfect skin).
Applying highlighter to the top of your cheekbones will gently accentuate them, add a glow to your entire face, and create a youthful appearance. If you want to visually enhance your lips, consider placing a bit of highlighter on the Cupid’s bow, which is the small area just above your upper lip. Highlighter can also work wonders around the eyes: applied to the inner corners, it brightens the eyes, and when placed under the brow arch, it lifts the brows and gives the whole face a more refreshed look.
Regardless of which product you choose (loose, pressed, or cream) and the areas of your face you apply it to, the key rule is moderation. This applies to all cosmetics, especially in daytime makeup, but it’s particularly important to be sparing with highlighter. If you apply too much or in too many places at once, your makeup can look unnatural and heavy.
Should you use highlighter for contouring?
Absolutely! It’s no coincidence that ready-made contouring kits almost always include a highlighter. This product, when combined with bronzer and blush, beautifully shapes the face, highlights its features, and adds dimension. Most people who wear makeup daily have these three essential makeup cosmetics in their collection.A set comprising a highlighter, blush, and bronzer is also a must-have in every makeup artist’s kit.
However, it’s worth noting that a technique called strobing has become popular, which uses only highlighter for contouring. This technique focuses on how strategically planned light can sculpt the face. It’s an interesting alternative to traditional bronzer-based contouring, providing a more subtle effect while giving the skin a fresh glow. Strobing is also easier to execute, making it a favourite among those who are less experienced with makeup. How to sculpt your face using highlighter
- The most crucial step is preparing the skin, as luminous products like highlighters can accentuate imperfections and draw attention to any unevenness. Essential steps include moisturising, smoothing the skin with a primer, and applying a good foundation. Only on this “canvas” can we apply strobing.
- Apply highlighter to the areas that are naturally most illuminated: the tops of the cheekbones, brow arch, temples, bridge of the nose, and possibly the chin. Blend the product gently to ensure it merges well with the foundation.
When sculpting the face with highlighter, it takes centre stage. If you also heavily define the eyes, shape bold brows, and paint your lips a vibrant red, the overall effect may become caricature-like. To complement the strobing, one layer of lightweight mascara and nude lips will suffice. With this makeup look, you’ll appear healthy, fresh, and elegant.
