Bestsellers for Highlighter
When it comes to achieving that perfect glow, the debate between powder and liquid highlighters is as vibrant as ever. Each type of highlighter offers its own unique benefits, from the subtle shimmer of powders to the dewy sheen of liquids, not forgetting the lush richness creams bring into play. Whether you're aiming for a natural radiance or an intense luminosity, understanding these differences can help illuminate your makeup routine in ways you never thought possible. Dive into our exploration of powder versus liquid highlighters—and discover which one will elevate your glow game to dazzling new heights.
Why Use a Highlighter?
Highlighters are essential in creating a radiant and luminous look. They enhance your features by reflecting light, making your skin appear more vibrant and youthful. Highlighters come in various forms, including powder and liquid, each suited for different skin types and preferences.
For those with oily skin, powder highlighters can absorb excess oil, leaving a smooth, matte finish. This feature prevents the skin from looking too shiny or greasy. On the other hand, liquid highlighters are perfect for dry or mature skin as they provide a hydrating effect. Their creamy texture helps to moisturize the skin, giving it a dewy and healthy glow.
Highlighters can also be used to accentuate specific areas of the face. Applying highlighter on the cheekbones, for example, can make them appear higher and more defined. Similarly, highlighting the bridge of the nose can make it look slimmer and more refined.
Moreover, highlighters offer versatility in makeup application. A subtle application can create a natural, everyday look while layering the product can achieve a more dramatic and intense effect for special occasions.
In addition to enhancing facial features, some highlighters contain skincare benefits such as vitamins and antioxidants. These ingredients help protect the skin from environmental stressors while providing a radiant glow.
Ultimately, using a highlighter can elevate your makeup look by adding dimension and glow to your face. Whether you prefer a subtle shimmer or an intense luminosity, incorporating a highlighter into your beauty routine can enhance your natural beauty.
Why Choose Powder Highlighters?
Powder highlighters are a fantastic choice for those seeking a versatile and easy-to-apply option. They are especially suited for individuals with oily skin as they help to absorb excess oil, ensuring a matte finish that lasts throughout the day. This absorption prevents the skin from appearing overly shiny or greasy, which can be a concern with other types of highlighters.
Subtle
One of the key benefits of powder highlighters is their ability to provide a subtle, natural glow. This makes them perfect for everyday wear, where you might want your skin to look radiant without appearing too made up. The lightweight nature of powder also means it's less likely to settle into fine lines or wrinkles, making it an excellent option for mature skin as well.
Easy to Use
Another advantage is the ease of application. Powder highlighters can be applied quickly with a brush, allowing for precise control over the amount of product used and where it's placed on the face. This precision helps in accentuating features like cheekbones and brow bones effectively.
Buildable
For those who prefer a more intense look for special occasions, powder highlighters can be layered to build up the desired level of luminosity. Their buildable nature allows you to transition from a daytime to an evening look effortlessly.
Versatile
Moreover, powder highlighters come in a wide range of shades to match different skin tones perfectly. This variety ensures that everyone can find a shade that complements their natural complexion, enhancing their overall makeup look.
Protective
Lastly, many powder highlighters are formulated with ingredients that benefit the skin. These may include minerals and antioxidants that protect the skin from environmental stressors while providing a beautiful glow. Choosing a powder highlighter means you're not just enhancing your appearance; you're also caring for your skin's health.
Why Choose Liquid Highlighters?
Liquid highlighters are a go-to for those seeking a radiant, dewy finish. Their creamy texture blends seamlessly into the skin, providing a natural glow that enhances your complexion without looking overdone. This blendability makes liquid highlighters particularly suitable for dry or mature skin types, as they hydrate and give the skin a youthful sheen.
Versatile
One of the standout features of liquid highlighters is their versatility in application. You can mix them with your foundation or moisturizer for an all-over luminosity or apply them directly to the high points of your face for targeted radiance. This flexibility allows you to customize your glow based on your desired makeup look.
Long-Lasting
Liquid highlighters also offer long-lasting wear. Once set, they tend to stay in place throughout the day, reducing the need for touch-ups. This durability ensures that your skin remains luminous and bright from morning until night.
Nourishing
For those concerned about their skin's health, many liquid highlighters are formulated with beneficial ingredients such as vitamins and antioxidants. These components not only enhance your glow but also protect and nourish your skin against environmental stressors.
Enhancing
Additionally, liquid highlighters come in a variety of shades to suit different skin tones. Whether you're looking for a subtle champagne shimmer or a bold rose gold glow, there's likely a liquid highlighter that matches your specific needs.
Customizable
Lastly, the sheer formula of liquid highlighters means they can be easily layered with other makeup products. This layering capability allows you to build up from a soft glow to a more intense highlight without your makeup appearing cakey or heavy.
Why Choose Cream Highlighters?
Cream highlighters stand out for their unique texture and versatility, making them a favorite among makeup enthusiasts.
Dewy
Their creamy consistency allows for smooth application, blending effortlessly into the skin to create a natural, dewy finish. This feature is particularly beneficial for those with dry or mature skin, as cream highlighters can provide a hydrating effect, leaving the skin looking radiant and youthful.
Buildable
One of the main advantages of cream highlighters is their ability to offer a buildable glow. You can easily control the intensity of your highlight by layering the product, moving from a subtle sheen to a more striking luminosity depending on the occasion. This flexibility makes cream highlighters suitable for both everyday looks and more glamorous evening makeup.
Lasting
Cream highlighters are also known for their staying power. Once applied, they tend to adhere well to the skin, minimizing the need for touch-ups throughout the day. This long-lasting wear ensures that your highlighted areas remain prominent and glowing for hours on end.
Hydrating
For those concerned about skincare benefits, many cream highlighters are formulated with nourishing ingredients such as vitamins and antioxidants. These components not only enhance your complexion but also work to protect and improve your skin's health over time.
Versatile
Additionally, cream highlighters come in a wide range of shades designed to complement various skin tones. Whether you're aiming for a soft, natural look or something more bold and dramatic, there's likely a cream highlighter that fits your needs perfectly.
Lastly, the creamy formula of these highlighters allows them to blend seamlessly with other makeup products. This compatibility enables you to achieve a cohesive and polished makeup look without worrying about your products clashing or appearing patchy on the skin.
Ulta Beauty Buying Guide
Highlighters are a must-have in any makeup routine, as they add a beautiful glow to the skin and enhance your features. When choosing a highlighter, there are a few factors to consider. First, decide on the formula that suits your preferences and skin type. Powders are great for oily skin, while creams and liquids work well for dry or mature skin. Next, consider the shade of the highlighter. Opt for a shade that complements your skin tone. Fair skin tones look stunning with champagne or pink-toned highlighters, while deeper skin tones can rock golden or bronze shades. If you're unsure, choose a universal shade that works well on all skin tones. Another important factor is the finish of the highlighter. Some highlighters have a subtle sheen, while others offer an intense, blinding glow. Decide whether you prefer a natural-looking highlight or a more dramatic effect. Lastly, consider the application method. Highlighters come in various forms, such as powders, creams, liquids, and sticks. Choose a format that you find easy to use and fits your lifestyle. Powders are great for on-the-go touch-ups, while creams and liquids offer a seamless blend. Remember, the key to a flawless highlight is placement. Apply the highlighter to the high points of your face where the light naturally hits, such as the cheekbones, brow bone, cupid's bow, and the bridge of the nose. Use a fluffy brush or your fingertips to blend the product for a seamless finish. With so many options available, finding the perfect highlighter may seem overwhelming, but don't worry! Take into consideration your skin type, shade preference, finish, and application method, and you'll be well on your way to achieving a radiant and glowing complexion. Here are some products we recommend.
All Nighter Waterproof Makeup Setting Spray
This setting spray is great for long-lasting makeup.
This All Nighter Waterproof Makeup Setting Spray is an excellent way to keep your look fresh and intact all day long. It is lightweight and won't feel heavy on the skin, so it's comfortable to wear. The fine mist provides a perfect layer of coverage that will lock makeup into place without smudging or fading throughout the day. Plus, it's been voted the #1 setting spray in the U.S., so you can be sure you're getting quality with this product.
- Provides a long-lasting makeup hold, ensuring your look stays put all day and night.
- The spray has a lightweight formula that doesn't feel heavy on the skin.
- It's waterproof, making it ideal for humid climates or sweaty situations.
- Users love the fine mist application, which ensures even coverage without soaking the skin.
- Many reviewers report that it doesn't cause any skin irritation and is suitable for sensitive skin.
- It also helps to prevent makeup smudging or fading, keeping your makeup looking fresh.
- The setting spray has a pleasant, subtle scent which users find appealing.
Translucent Loose Setting Powder Ultra-Blur
- Translucent Loose Setting Powder Ultra-Blur is a talc-free setting powder with long-wearing power and ultra-blurring capability.
Laura Mercier's Translucent Loose Setting Powder Ultra-Blur is an excellent choice for those seeking a flawless complexion. The talc-free formula is designed to provide comfortable, 16 hour wear with its weightless texture that makes skin look and feel soft and smooth. Additionally, the powder is infused with hyaluronic acid to provide extra blurring power for an even finish.
- Provides an ultra-blur effect that smoothens skin texture and reduces the appearance of pores
- The translucent nature of the powder ensures it blends seamlessly with any skin tone
- Excellent for setting makeup, enhancing its longevity throughout the day
- Contains a lightweight formula that doesn't feel heavy or cakey on the skin
- Imparts a subtle, healthy glow without adding unnecessary shine, perfect for a natural look
- The powder is easy to apply and evenly distributed, ensuring a flawless finish
- High-quality product at an affordable price, providing excellent value for money
Mini Translucent Loose Setting Powder
This Mini Translucent Loose Setting Powder by Laura Mercier provides up to 16 hours of wear, has a soft-focus finish and no flashback.
This Mini Translucent Loose Setting Powder is an excellent product for setting and maintaining makeup. With 24HR Shine Control, it promises to keep your makeup looking fresh and flawless for up to 16 hours. The powder has a soft-focus finish that adds just a hint of sheer coverage without any unpleasant flashbacks in photos. It is also conveniently sized, making it perfect for both travel and everyday use.
- Provides a flawless finish that enhances your natural beauty
- The translucent nature allows for a universal match for all skin tones
- Long-lasting and stays put throughout the day, without needing reapplication
- Effectively controls oil and reduces shine, giving a matte finish
- Finely milled texture provides a smooth application and avoids caking
- Gentle on the skin with its non-comedogenic properties, preventing blocked pores
- Comes in a convenient mini size, perfect for on-the-go touch-ups.
FAQ
Can I use highlighter on my eyes?
Yes, highlighters can be applied to the eyes to create a luminous look. Use it on the inner corners of the eyes or on the brow bone to make your eyes appear brighter and more awake.
Is it possible to apply highlighter under foundation?
Applying highlighter under foundation can give your skin a subtle glow. It creates a lit-from-within look that is more natural than applying it on top of foundation.
How do I choose the right shade of highlighter for my skin tone?
Select a highlighter that is one or two shades lighter than your skin tone for a natural glow. If you have fair to light skin, opt for pink or peach tones. Medium to olive skin tones look best with golden shades, while deep skin tones are complemented by rich gold or bronze highlighters.
Can highlighters expire?
Like all makeup products, highlighters have an expiration date, typically ranging from 12 to 24 months after opening. Check the product packaging for the specific shelf life.
Are there highlighters suitable for acne-prone skin?
Yes, there are highlighters formulated with non-comedogenic ingredients that won't clog pores or exacerbate acne. Look for products labeled as oil-free and non-comedogenic.
How can I prevent my liquid highlighter from looking streaky?
To avoid streakiness, blend your liquid highlighter quickly after application using a damp makeup sponge or your fingertips. Ensure your skin is well-moisturized before applying.
Can I mix powder and liquid highlighters?
Mixing powder and liquid highlighters can create a customized glow. Apply the liquid highlighter first for a dewy base, then dust the powder highlighter on top for added intensity.
How do I fix highlighter application mistakes?
If you apply too much highlighter, gently tap a beauty sponge over the area to remove excess product. You can also apply a light layer of foundation or concealer on top to tone it down.
Can men wear highlighters?
Highlighters are for everyone, regardless of gender identity. Anyone can use highlighter to enhance their features or achieve a desired glow.
Is it necessary to set liquid or cream highlighters with a powder?
Setting liquid or cream highlighters with a translucent powder can help in increasing their longevity, particularly for oily skin types. However, this step can be skipped if you're aiming for a more dewy finish.