How to Achieve Glowing Skin with Highlighters and Illuminators

Reading time: 4 mins

The quest for glowing skin remains a timeless pursuit. While skincare forms the foundation of radiant skin, the right cosmetics can elevate your glow to another level. Highlighters and illuminators are pivotal tools in this journey, each offering unique benefits to give your skin that coveted radiant finish. Whether you're a makeup novice or a seasoned pro, understanding how to use these products effectively can transform your beauty routine.

Understanding Highlighters vs. Illuminators

Before diving into how to use these products, it's essential to understand the difference between highlighters and illuminators, as they serve similar yet distinct purposes.

Highlighters are more intense and are used to accentuate and draw attention to the high points of the face, such as the cheekbones, brow bones, and the bridge of the nose. They often come in powder, cream, or liquid forms and offer a more defined, noticeable shimmer.
Illuminators provide a more subtle, all-over glow. They can be mixed with foundation or moisturizer to enhance your skin’s natural radiance without highlighting specific areas. Illuminators are often used to achieve a dewy, lit-from-within look.

How to Properly Apply Highlighters

Choose the Right Shade: When selecting a highlighter, consider your skin tone. Fair skin tones generally suit pearl or soft pink highlighters, medium tones can opt for champagne or rose gold hues, and darker skin tones can experiment with gold or bronze shades.
Strategic Application: Use a fan brush for powder highlighters or fingertips for cream or liquid versions. Apply to the tops of your cheekbones, the bridge of your nose, the inner corners of your eyes, the brow bone, and the Cupid's bow for a lifted, luminous effect.
Blend Well: After applying, make sure to blend the edges seamlessly into your skin for a natural finish, avoiding harsh lines.

Mastering the Use of Illuminators

Mix with Foundation: For an all-over glow, mix a few drops of liquid illuminator into your foundation or moisturizer. This will provide a subtle luminosity to your entire face.
Application Before Foundation: Some prefer to apply illuminators before foundation, using them as a base on areas that naturally catch the light. This method provides a glow that shines through the foundation, offering a more understated brilliance.
Spot Highlighting: While illuminators are generally used for a diffuse glow, they can also be applied to key areas much like a highlighter for a softer effect.

Tips for Achieving the Perfect Glow

Prep Your Skin: Good makeup starts with good skin prep. Ensure your skin is well-hydrated before applying makeup products. Consider using a hydrating primer to set the stage for your glow.
Complement with Bronzer and Blush: A well-rounded approach involves balancing your highlighter with a bit of bronzer and blush, adding dimension and a natural flush to your complexion.
Beware of Excessive Shine: While the goal is to glow, it’s important to avoid looking greasy. Be mindful of product placement and blend thoroughly. If you have oily skin, set your T-zone with translucent powder.
Layer as Needed: For day-to-day, a more subtle glow might be appropriate, but for evening events or photography, feel free to layer highlighters and illuminators for a more pronounced effect.

Final Thoughts

Glowing skin is synonymous with health and vitality, and with the strategic use of highlighters and illuminators, you can enhance your natural beauty effortlessly. Whether achieving a bold, highlighted look or a subtle, dewy finish, these products offer versatility and an instant boost of radiance. Explore different textures and shades to find what best complements your unique skin tone and style. Above all, embrace the experimentation process and let your inner glow shine through.