Whether it is cream, powder, or liquid, your choice of highlighter formulation should be based on your skin type to get the most favorable results.
Highlighter Makeup
Highlighter is a must-have for achieving a luminous, glowing complexion, adding radiance to key areas like the brow bone and nose bridge. With countless formulas and shades available, choosing the right one can be daunting. Makeup artists recommend considering your skin tone and type. Highlighting enhances bone structure and mimics a youthful glow, but it's essential to apply it above the bone line and choose the right formula for your desired look.
Choosing the Formulation for Your Skin Type
There are three highlighter formulations: liquid, cream, and powder. Each consistency is made to work on a specific skin type.
Liquid Highlighters - Normal to Dry Skin
Liquid highlighters are a go-to for normal to dry skin types, offering a natural, dewy finish. They are versatile, blend well with moisturizer or foundation for an all-over glow, and require only a small amount for noticeable radiance. Apply on cheekbones, temples, cupid's bow, and brow bone, then blend with fingertips or a brush.
Perricone MD No Makeup Highlighter is a favorite, vegan gel-liquid highlighter that brightens with light-reflecting pearls and vitamin E. Liquid highlighter provides a subtle shimmer or pronounced shine, ideal for achieving a natural, dewy look on normal to dry skin.
Cream Highlighters - Normal to Oily Skin
Cream highlighters are ideal for normal to oily skin, offering a soft, dewy glow without sparkle. They blend seamlessly into the skin for a natural-looking radiance suitable for daily wear. Cream highlighters can be used to brighten areas like under the eyes and corners of the mouth. They provide a subtle, lit-from-within glow, often coming in jars, palettes, or sticks that require blending with fingers or a brush.
MyGlamm recommends the Manish Malhotra Face & Body Highlighter for a liquid metal finish with sheer to full buildable coverage. Cream highlighters work well for achieving a subdued, sculpted look on normal to oily skin types.
Powder Highlighters - All Skin Types
Powder highlighters are versatile and suitable for all skin types, offering a shimmery finish. They are easy to use and come in various colors, making them popular among makeup enthusiasts. With a high concentration of shimmer, powder highlighters can be applied over the foundation and blush for a noticeable glow. Their fluffy texture glides on smoothly and is comfortable to wear.
Powder highlighters are great for oily skin, easy to control, and buildable, allowing for a natural or more luminous effect. Some favorite products include Colorescience Pressed Mineral Illuminator for a subtle radiance, theBalm Mary-Lou Manizer for a light-reflecting glow, and bareMinerals Pressed Endless Glow Highlighter for a natural luster suitable for all skin tones.
