It's in every makeup bag (or almost?), highlighter is now a must-have in our beauty routines. How to apply it? We'll tell you everything.

Highlighter has become a staple in our beauty routine, adding a touch of light and radiance to our makeup by lifting our foundation. There are several types of highlighters, such as liquid highlighter, powder highlighter, and cream highlighter, suitable for different skin types and preferences. In this article, we will explore the different techniques for applying highlighter, focusing on skin types, colors, and the tools needed to achieve a luminous complexion.

Know your skin type

The first step to achieving a glowing complexion with highlighter is knowing your skin type. Depending on your skin type, liquid highlighter, powder highlighter, or cream highlighter may be more suitable.

Combination skin

If you have combination skin, with both dry and oily areas, opt for a liquid highlighter. It is lightweight and can be applied precisely to avoid highlighting oily areas.

Dry skin

For dry skin, creamy highlighter is ideal. It hydrates the skin while adding radiance, preventing a dull appearance.

Oily skin

If you have oily skin, powder highlighter is a great choice. It helps reduce excess shine while adding a touch of light.

Skin color

Your skin tone is also an important factor. Lighter skin tones can opt for a gold or champagne highlighter, while darker skin tones can favor copper or bronze shades for a subtle effect.

Choosing Highlighter Type

There are several types of highlighters on the market, each with its own benefits. Here's a look at the three main types of highlighters: liquid, powder, and cream.

Liquid Highlighter

Liquid highlighter is versatile and provides a natural glow. To apply, use an applicator brush or your fingers. Start by taking a small amount and gently tapping onto the areas you want to highlight, such as the brow bone, cheekbones, bridge of the nose, and Cupid's bow.

Powder Highlighter

Powder highlighter (or illuminating powder) is ideal for oily skin. Use a fan brush to gently apply the powder to the areas you want to highlight. Be careful not to apply too much, to avoid a powdery appearance.

Creamy Highlighter

Creamy highlighters are perfect for dry skin and provide a soft, hydrating glow. You can apply them with your fingers or a brush. Take a small amount and blend gently onto targeted areas.

@stxph.h Highlight placement is KEY to looking glowy, NOT oily. Using @Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Glow Glide Face Architect Highlighter ✨🫶🏼 #ctilburypartner #HollywoodHighlighter #GlowGlide ♬ original sound - stephhui

Highlighter Application Techniques

Now that you've chosen the type of highlighter that best suits your skin, let's move on to some application techniques for a luminous complexion.

The Eyebrow Arch

Apply a small touch of highlighter under the brow bone to highlight your eyebrows and open up your eyes.

The Cheekbones

For a lifting effect, add the highlighter to the top of your cheekbones. This will give your face a more sculpted appearance.

The Bridge of the Nose

If you want to slim your nose, apply a thin line of highlighter along the bridge of your nose and at the tip.

The upper lip

To draw attention to a pretty mouth and give the impression of full lips, add a touch of light at the Cupid's bow.

The Inner Corner of the Eyes

Apply a small amount of highlighter to the inner corner of your eyes for a bright, awake look.

Tips for Successful Makeup

For a subtle effect, always start with a small amount of highlighter and add more as needed.

For a luminous complexion , opt for highlighter shades that complement your skin tone.

Avoid putting highlighter on problem areas, such as blemishes or dry areas of skin.

Make sure your makeup is well blended for a natural look.

Makeup Trend: Luminous Skin

The current makeup trend is all about luminous, radiant skin. Highlighter plays a vital role in achieving this look. It adds dimension to the face and creates a healthy glow. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different highlighter shades to find the one that best flatters your features.

Highlighting is an essential step in achieving a luminous and radiant complexion. By choosing the right type of highlighter for your skin type, using the right application techniques and opting for complementary shades, you can create a stunning look. Remember, highlighter is a powerful tool to enhance your features and add a touch of light to your everyday makeup. So, don't be afraid to experiment and shine bright, whether you have fair, dark or dark skin!