Highlighter

Highlighter gives the skin radiance and highlights the parts of the face where light naturally falls. With the right shade and a light application, you can create anything from a soft glow to more defined shimmer. Here you will find highlighter to give your makeup a light-reflecting finish, whether you prefer a natural everyday look or want more shine.

What does a highlighter do?

A highlighter contains light-reflecting pigments that make selected parts of the face appear more prominent. It is often used on the highest point of the cheekbones, but can also be applied under the outer edge of the eyebrow or on the cupid's bow above the upper lip. The effect depends both on the product's finish and on how much you use.

Highlighter usually provides less coverage than a foundation or concealer. The main purpose is to add light and dimension, not to conceal unevenness. A thin layer can give the skin a subtle radiance, while several layers make the shimmer more noticeable.

You can use highlighter together with other face makeup or on lightly moisturized skin without a full-coverage base. That makes it easy to adapt depending on how much makeup you want to wear.

Choose between soft radiance and distinct shimmer

The finish is one of the most important things to look at when choosing highlighter. A finely milled, pearlescent formula can provide a soft light that melts into the skin. It suits you if you want the radiance to be noticeable mainly when you turn your face toward the light.

A highlighter with more pronounced shimmer gives a clearer makeup effect. If the product contains larger glitter particles, they may be visible individually, especially at close range. That can be beautiful for a party look, but it gives a different result than an even, subtle radiance.

If you want to create a dewy finish, look for a highlighter that leaves a soft sheen rather than obvious glitter. Apply it to a limited area so the rest of the face keeps its natural finish. In our post about glass skin with Korean makeup, you can read more about how to build a radiant base.

Which shade of highlighter suits you?

A highlighter does not need to be exactly the same color as your skin, but the shade affects how naturally it blends in. If you want a subtle effect, a color close to your own skin tone, or slightly lighter, is often a good starting point. Otherwise, a very light shade can look like a light streak when the face is not hit by direct light.

For fair skin

Light pearl, soft pink, and light champagne can be lovely options for fair skin. If you want to avoid a sharp contrast, you can choose a shade with a soft tone instead of a distinctly white or silver-colored base.

For medium and darker skin

On medium skin, champagne, peach, and soft golden tones can blend in beautifully. On darker skin, deeper gold, copper, and bronze can add radiance without leaving a pale effect. The result also depends on how transparent or pigmented the product is.

Also base it on your undertone

If the skin has a warm undertone, golden and peach-colored shades can harmonize with it. With a cool undertone, pink or cooler pearl can be an option. A neutral champagne tone can work for several undertones. See this as a starting point; you can also choose color based on the rest of your makeup and the effect you want to create.

Highlighter in setting powder, cream, or liquid form

The texture affects both the application and how the highlighter works with your base. No form is best for everyone; the choice depends on what feel and finish you prefer.

Powder highlighter

Highlighter in powder form is usually applied with a brush and makes it easy to build up the radiance little by little. It often works well on top of a base that has already been set with setting powder. A soft brush gives a more diffused effect, while a smaller brush makes placement more precise.

If the skin is dry or has visible dry patches, a powdery formula can sit unevenly. Therefore, prepare the skin with moisture and start with a small amount of product.

Cream highlighter and highlighter in stick form

A cream highlighter can give a soft glow and be applied with the fingers, a sponge, or a brush. A stick is practical when you want to place the product on a smaller area. To avoid dragging your foundation, you can first pick up a little product with your finger or a brush and then gently dab it onto the skin.

Liquid highlighter

Liquid highlighter can be thin and light or more concentrated and pigmented. Start with a small drop and work it in where you want radiance. Follow the product's instructions if it can also be used over larger areas of the face or mixed with foundation.

How to apply highlighter

Start by applying your base and possibly blush. Then apply a small amount of highlighter to the highest point of the cheekbone, slightly above the blush. Blend out the edges so the radiance melts into the rest of your makeup.

For a subtle everyday look, highlighting the cheekbones is often enough. If you want to add more light, you can also apply a small amount under the outer edge of the eyebrow or on the cupid's bow. On the bridge of the nose, it is good to be sparing, especially if you easily become shiny there.

Cream and liquid products are often easiest to apply before a setting setting powder, while powder highlighter usually works well afterward. Dab the product in rather than rubbing if you notice that the base is shifting.

Feel free to check the result in daylight. A highlighter may look subtle straight on but give significantly more shine when the light hits from the side.

Radiance without emphasizing the skin's texture too much

Light-reflecting pigments can make pores, fine lines, and other unevenness more visible. If you want a softer result, you can choose a finer shimmer texture and keep the application to a smaller area.

You do not need to apply highlighter over the entire cheek. Try placing it slightly higher or farther out if it otherwise emphasizes an area where you have visible pores. On skin that easily becomes shiny, you can keep the forehead, nose, and chin more toned down and concentrate the radiance on the cheekbones.

Frequently asked questions about highlighter

What is the difference between highlighter and bronzer?

Highlighter reflects light and highlights selected parts of the face. Bronzer adds warmth and a sun-kissed tone. They can be used together, with bronzer where you want warmth and highlighter where you want radiance.

Can you use highlighter without foundation?

Yes, highlighter can be used without foundation. Apply a small amount to moisturized skin and blend out the edges. A transparent formula may be easier to blend in when you do not have a full-coverage base.

Should highlighter be applied before or after setting powder?

Cream and liquid highlighter are often applied before setting setting powder, while powder highlighter is usually applied afterward. Formulas work differently, so follow the product's instructions and apply gently to keep the base even.

Which highlighter is suitable if I want to avoid glitter?

Look for a highlighter with finely milled shimmer and a pearlescent or softly radiant finish. Avoid larger glitter particles and start with a thin layer for a subtle effect.