Highlighter catches the light on the high points of the face and makes skin look fresh and awake. The trick is choosing a texture that suits your skin and your base, and placing it where light would naturally fall. Here is how the four main textures compare.
Where to apply highlighter
- The top of the cheekbones, from below the outer corner of the eye towards the temple
- The bridge of the nose (a thin line, not the tip if you have shine there)
- The cupid's bow above the top lip
- The inner corner of the eye and just under the brow arch
Start with the cheekbones only; add the other points if you want a stronger glow.
Powder highlighter: easy and long-lasting
Powder is the best match for oily skin and for wearing over a powdered base. The Little Angel Embossed Highlighter has a feather-light, velvety texture with minimal fallout, in shades such as L01 Eross Fable and L04 Moon River.
How to apply: use a small fan or tapered brush, tap off the excess and sweep lightly along the cheekbone. Build in thin layers.
Balm highlighter: a dewy, skin-like sheen
Balms melt into the skin for a wet-look glow and are lovely on normal to dry skin. Try the Shell's Jewel Highlighter Balm in Blue Tears or Moonlight Stone.
How to apply: pat on with a fingertip before any powder. If you set your face afterwards, avoid powdering directly over the balm.
Highlighting stick: quick and travel-friendly
Sticks glide straight onto the skin, so they are perfect for touch-ups. The Shell's Jewel Dual-Ended Highlighting Stick comes in 01 Vanilla White and 02 Peachy Pink.
How to apply: draw a short line on the cheekbone and tap it in with a fingertip or sponge until the edges disappear.
Liquid highlighter: the most flexible
Liquids can be applied alone, mixed with foundation for an all-over glow, or tapped on top of makeup. The Midsummer Fairytales Liquid Highlighter (Multichrome) shifts colour in the light, and the Snow Ballet Dewy Glow Illuminator comes in four shades from SW01 Swan White to BM02 Blue Moonlight.
How to apply: one small drop is enough for both cheeks. Tap it on before powder and blend the edges well.
Which one should you choose?
- Oily skin or long days: powder.
- Dry or normal skin, natural glow: balm or liquid.
- On the go: a stick.
- Glow all over: mix a drop of liquid highlighter into your foundation.
Explore more glow in our Face collection.
FAQ
Does highlighter make pores look bigger?
Strong shimmer on textured areas can draw attention to them. Keep highlighter on the cheekbones and away from areas with visible pores, and choose a finer, softer sheen.
Can I layer two highlighter textures?
Yes: tap a balm or liquid on first, then press a little powder highlighter on top for extra glow that lasts longer.
Highlighter before or after blush?
Follow the texture rule: creams and liquids before powder, powders after. Apply highlighter just above your blush so the two blend softly.
