Understanding the Glow
Highlighters are essential makeup items for enhancing your features and achieving a radiant appearance. They work by reflecting light, giving the illusion
of a brighter, more youthful complexion. While numerous highlighter shades exist, those with rosy undertones impart a healthy, flushed look, especially flattering for many skin tones. Choosing the correct highlighter involves considering your skin type, tone, and the desired effect. Whether you favor a subtle shimmer or a striking glow, the right highlighter can highlight your cheekbones, brow bones, and other facial areas, adding dimension and luminosity. Beyond just adding color, many highlighters have multi-use formulas that can be blended and used as eyeshadow or lip colors.
The Classic Cream
Cream highlighters offer a natural, dewy finish, perfect for dry or combination skin types. Their blendable formula merges seamlessly with the skin, creating a subtle glow. Often packaged in sticks or pots, they are convenient for on-the-go application. When using a cream highlighter, gently dab it onto the high points of your face, such as the cheekbones, brow bone, and cupid's bow. Then, blend the product with your fingers or a damp makeup sponge for a seamless finish. You can also use cream highlighters under your foundation for a lit-from-within effect. These products can be used as a base, creating the foundation for the glow.
Powder Powerhouse
Powder highlighters are ideal for oily or combination skin, providing a long-lasting, luminous effect. Their finely milled texture allows for effortless blending, ensuring a smooth, airbrushed finish. Powder highlighters come in various formulations, from subtle shimmers to intense metallic finishes. To apply, use a fluffy brush to lightly dust the highlighter onto the areas you want to highlight. Build up the intensity gradually for your desired effect. Powder highlighters also work well in the crease of the eyes for added shimmer.
Liquid Luminosity
Liquid highlighters provide a radiant, buildable glow that can be mixed with foundation or applied directly to the skin. Their lightweight formula is suitable for all skin types, offering versatility in achieving different levels of illumination. When applying a liquid highlighter, you can mix a few drops into your foundation for an all-over glow or apply it directly to the high points of your face for a more intense highlight. Blend with a damp sponge or your fingertips for a seamless, natural finish. You can also apply it as an eyeshadow base to add dimension.
The Stick Option
Highlighter sticks combine the ease of cream highlighters with the portability of a stick format. They are ideal for quick touch-ups and on-the-go applications. The stick's creamy texture glides effortlessly onto the skin, leaving a dewy, radiant finish. To apply, swipe the stick directly onto the cheekbones, brow bone, or cupid's bow, then gently blend with your fingers or a sponge. Stick highlighters often come in a range of shades, from subtle shimmers to intense glows, catering to various skin tones and preferences.
Rosy Undertone Selection
Selecting the right highlighter shade for a rosy and dewy glow is crucial. Look for highlighters with pink or peach undertones that complement your skin tone. For fair skin, opt for light pink or champagne shades to create a delicate glow. Medium skin tones can experiment with rose gold or peach hues to enhance their natural warmth. Darker skin tones can embrace bronze or copper highlighters with pink or rose undertones, which add depth and radiance. Always consider the occasion and the look you are going for. When trying new shades, apply the highlighter in natural light to ensure it blends seamlessly with your skin and enhances your features.
Multi-Use Applications
Multi-use highlighters offer incredible versatility, extending beyond highlighting the face. They can be used as eyeshadows, lip colors, and even mixed into body lotion. The same highlighter applied to the cheekbones can also be dabbed onto the eyelids for a shimmering eye look. A rosy-toned highlighter can create a flushed, youthful appearance when applied lightly to the lips. For an all-over glow, mix a few drops of liquid highlighter into your body lotion and apply it to your shoulders, collarbones, and legs. Experiment with various application techniques to discover the full potential of your highlighters and elevate your makeup routine.
Application Techniques
Mastering the application techniques will ensure your highlighter complements your features. Start by prepping your skin with a moisturizer and primer. If you are using a powder highlighter, apply it after your foundation and setting powder. For cream and liquid highlighters, apply them before setting powder. When highlighting your cheekbones, apply the highlighter to the highest point of your cheekbones and blend upwards toward your temples. For your brow bone, apply a small amount of highlighter just below the eyebrow arch. Use a small brush to highlight the inner corners of your eyes. Use a fan brush for a diffused highlight, giving a natural look. Experiment with different brushes and application methods to find what works best for your skin type and desired effect.
