If you’re seeking that lit-from-within glow, highlighters and illuminators are your go-to beauty products to achieve a radiant, dewy finish. Whether you’re prepping for a special night out or just want a natural, glowing complexion, choosing the right product is essential. From powder formulas to creamy textures, the world of highlighters and illuminators offers a wide range to suit every skin tone and type. Here’s a roundup of the best options to give you that luminous, glowing skin you’ve always desired.
1. Fenty Beauty Killawatt Freestyle Highlighter
Rihanna’s Fenty Beauty revolutionized the beauty industry by catering to all skin tones, and the Killawatt Freestyle Highlighter is no exception. This versatile highlighter comes in a variety of shades, from the icy metallic Lightning Dust to the golden, sun-kissed Trophy Wife. The formula is buildable, making it easy to create a subtle glow or go full-on blinding highlight. Whether you use it on your cheekbones, brow bones, or even eyelids, Fenty’s highlighter will leave your skin glowing from every angle.
Best For: All skin tones, long-lasting, versatile use.
2. Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector Pressed Highlighter
A cult favorite for good reason, Becca’s Shimmering Skin Perfector delivers a radiant glow with a finely milled formula that never looks chunky or glittery. The creamy powder texture melts into the skin, providing a natural yet stunning highlight. Shades like Opal and Champagne Pop are beloved for their ability to enhance various skin tones, creating a luminous finish that’s perfect for day or night.
Best For: Those looking for a natural, radiant glow with a smooth finish.
3. Hourglass Ambient Lighting Powder
Hourglass’s Ambient Lighting Powders are perfect for those who want a subtle glow with a soft-focus effect. These powders are infused with light-reflecting particles that create a radiant, airbrushed finish. The Luminous Light shade is especially popular for brightening the skin, while the other tones can be used to create dimension and warmth. This product works well as an all-over finishing powder or as a highlight.
Best For: A soft, lit-from-within glow, perfect for everyday wear.
4. The Balm Mary-Lou Manizer Highlighter
If you’re after a highlighter that adds a stunning, champagne-golden glow, look no further than The Balm’s Mary-Lou Manizer. This powder highlighter can be used to accentuate cheekbones, brow bones, and even the cupid’s bow. It’s buildable, so you can apply a little for a natural finish or layer it for a more intense effect. Plus, its sleek packaging makes it easy to take on-the-go.
Best For: Those who want a golden glow with a smooth, buildable formula.
5. Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter
Charlotte Tilbury’s Hollywood Flawless Filter is more than just a highlighter—it’s a liquid illuminator that gives you a skin-perfecting glow. This multitasking product can be used as a primer, mixed with foundation, or applied as a highlighter to areas where light naturally hits. It’s available in several shades to match different skin tones and provides a dewy, youthful finish.
Best For: Those seeking a dewy, radiant base and a versatile product.
6. Rare Beauty Positive Light Liquid Luminizer
Selena Gomez’s Rare Beauty offers a beautiful range of highlighters, and the Positive Light Liquid Luminizer is one of its standout products. This liquid highlighter has a lightweight, buildable formula that delivers a lit-from-within shine. Available in multiple shades, it’s perfect for achieving a subtle glow or a high-impact highlight. It blends seamlessly into the skin, making it ideal for all skin types.
Best For: Those who love liquid highlighters and want an easy-to-blend formula for a flawless finish.
7. Milani Strobe Light Instant Glow Powder
Milani’s Strobe Light Instant Glow Powder is a great drugstore option for a glowing complexion without breaking the bank. The silky powder formula reflects light beautifully, giving you an enviable glow. Available in shades like Afterglow and Day Glow, these highlighters are perfect for adding that finishing touch to your makeup look.
Best For: Budget-friendly, radiant finish.
8. Maybelline FaceStudio Master Chrome Highlighter
Maybelline’s FaceStudio Master Chrome Highlighter is an affordable and highly pigmented highlighter that creates a metallic, bold glow. The formula is smooth and creamy, with minimal fallout, allowing for intense shine with just one application. Shades like Molten Gold are especially popular for their ability to enhance various skin tones.
Best For: Bold, metallic highlights at a great price.
Tips for Applying Highlighter:
- Highlight Your High Points: Apply your highlighter to the high points of your face, such as the tops of your cheekbones, the bridge of your nose, the brow bones, the cupid’s bow, and the inner corners of your eyes.
- Choose the Right Formula: If you have dry skin, opt for liquid or cream highlighters, as these tend to blend seamlessly and add a dewy finish. For oily skin, powder highlighters can work best for a long-lasting effect.
- Don’t Overdo It: While a bold highlight can look gorgeous, a little goes a long way. Start with a light hand and build up the intensity as needed.
Conclusion
From natural radiance to a bold, blinding highlight, there’s a perfect highlighter for everyone. Whether you prefer powder, cream, or liquid formulas, these highlighters will give your skin a luminous, glowing finish that enhances your features. Experiment with different textures and shades to discover which one best suits your complexion and style, and enjoy the radiant glow you deserve!
