Highlighter makeup for a light-catching finish

Highlighter makeup adds brightness to selected features, from a soft sheen on the cheekbones to a more noticeable glow. Choose powder, cream, stick or liquid highlighter based on your base and preferred finish.

Place glow with purpose

Tap highlighter onto the tops of the cheekbones, brow bone or inner eye. Keep it away from textured areas if you do not want to draw attention there. Press liquid or cream formulas in rather than rubbing. Sweep powder lightly over a set base. Balance the glow with blush and bronzer.

Keep highlighter in proportion

A subtle sheen works well with soft daytime makeup, while a brighter liquid highlighter can become the focus of an evening look. Use fingertips for pinpoint placement, a sponge for diffused cream products or a small brush for powder. If the cheeks already have luminous blush or bronzer, add less highlighter. The most flattering placement is the area that catches light when you turn your face, not every high point at once. Powder highlighter sits neatly over a set base and is easy to control with a small brush. Cream and stick formulas can be tapped over unset makeup for a softer sheen, while liquid highlighter creates a fluid glow and may be mixed with compatible base products when directions allow. Consider how much shine you want. Fine shimmer gives subtle light, while stronger reflective finishes create a more noticeable highlight for evening makeup.

Balance illuminator with other cheek colour

Place highlighter after bronzer and blush so you can see how much glow the cheeks already have. A small amount on the cheekbones, inner corners or brow bone can be enough. If using liquid highlighter over foundation, press it in gently rather than rubbing. Keep the sides of the nose or textured areas unhighlighted when you prefer not to emphasise them. Viewed together, blush, bronzer and illuminator should create dimension without competing for attention.

Highlighter Makeup FAQs

Where should highlighter be applied?

Use it on the high points you want to emphasise, such as cheekbones or the inner corners of the eyes.

Can liquid highlighter be mixed with foundation?

Some compatible formulas can be mixed for an all-over glow. Check product instructions and test a small amount.

What brush is best for powder highlighter?

A small tapered or fan-shaped brush can give controlled, diffused application.