Hey there, beauty lovers! If you’ve ever found yourself standing in front of a mirror wondering, “What’s the best highlighter for a natural look?” – you’re in the right place! Highlighters have become a staple in our makeup bags, but finding one that gives you that perfect, natural glow can be a bit tricky. Today, we’re diving into the world of highlighters to help you discover how to get that effortless, dewy look without looking like a disco ball.
In this post, I’ll guide you through everything you need to know about choosing the right highlighter for your skin type, the best application techniques, and even some top product recommendations. Whether you’re a makeup newbie or a seasoned pro, you’ll find tips and tricks to elevate your glow game. So grab a cup of coffee, get comfy, and let’s get glowing! Keep reading to find out how to achieve that enviable, lit-from-within look that everyone will notice.
Understanding Highlighters: What Are They?
What is a Highlighter and Why Do You Need One?
Highlighters are makeup products designed to reflect light. They enhance your complexion and give your skin a brighter, dewy glow. If you’re aiming for that natural, sun-kissed look, a highlighter is your best friend. They come in various forms – powders, creams, and liquids – each offering a unique finish.
Types of Highlighters
There are several types of highlighters to choose from, each with its own benefits. Powder highlighters are great for oily skin as they help absorb excess oil. Cream highlighters work well for dry skin, providing a moisturizing glow. Liquid highlighters offer a versatile option that can be mixed with foundation or used alone for a subtle shine.
Choosing the Right Highlighter for Your Skin Tone
Fair Skin Tones
If you have fair skin, opt for highlighters with pearly or champagne undertones. These shades will complement your skin without overpowering it, giving you a natural, luminous finish.
Medium Skin Tones
For medium skin tones, gold and peachy highlighters work wonders. They add warmth to your complexion and create a beautiful, sun-kissed glow that looks effortless and chic.
Dark Skin Tones
Dark skin tones can rock bold highlighters like bronze, copper, and deep gold. These shades enhance your natural radiance and create a stunning, eye-catching glow.
Application Techniques for a Natural Glow
Where to Apply Highlighter
To achieve a natural look, apply highlighter to the high points of your face. These include the tops of your cheekbones, the bridge of your nose, your cupid’s bow, and the inner corners of your eyes.
Tools for Application
The right tools can make all the difference. Use a fan brush for a light, even application or your fingers for a more concentrated glow. For liquid highlighters, a damp beauty sponge can help blend the product seamlessly into your skin.
Top 10 Highlighters for a Natural Look
1. Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector
This cult-favorite highlighter is known for its creamy texture and natural finish. It’s perfect for those who want a subtle glow without too much sparkle.
2. Glossier Haloscope
Glossier’s Haloscope is ideal for a dewy, fresh-faced look. Its unique formula combines a solid oil core with outer highlighter for a moisturizing glow.
3. RMS Beauty Living Luminizer
This organic highlighter is perfect for those who prefer a more natural, eco-friendly option. It provides a sheer, satin finish that looks beautiful on all skin types.
4. Fenty Beauty Killawatt Freestyle Highlighter
Fenty Beauty offers a range of shades that cater to all skin tones. The creamy powder formula blends like a dream and delivers a high-impact glow.
5. MAC Mineralize Skinfinish
This baked powder highlighter offers a natural, radiant finish. It’s buildable, allowing you to customize your glow from subtle to intense.
6. Hourglass Ambient Lighting Powder
Hourglass’s finely milled powders mimic the effect of natural light, giving your skin a soft-focus, lit-from-within look.
7. Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Beauty Light Wand
This liquid highlighter is easy to apply and blend, giving you a gorgeous, luminous finish that’s perfect for both day and night.
8. Benefit Cosmetics Watt’s Up!
This cream-to-powder highlighter is easy to use and delivers a soft, champagne glow that’s flattering on all skin tones.
9. Anastasia Beverly Hills Amrezy Highlighter
Known for its universally flattering shade, this highlighter offers a radiant, golden glow that looks stunning on everyone.
10. L’Oreal True Match Lumi Glow Amour
This drugstore favorite is a liquid highlighter that blends effortlessly and provides a beautiful, natural glow at an affordable price.
10 Tips for Applying Highlighter Like a Pro
- 1. Less is more: Start with a small amount and build up if needed.
- 2. Choose the right shade: Match your highlighter to your skin tone for a natural look.
- 3. Use natural light: Apply your makeup in natural light to see how it truly looks.
- 4. Blend well: Ensure there are no harsh lines for a seamless finish.
- 5. Highlight strategically: Focus on the high points of your face.
- 6. Mix with foundation: For a subtle glow, mix a liquid highlighter with your foundation.
- 7. Set with powder: If you have oily skin, lightly set your highlighter with translucent powder.
- 8. Layer textures: Use a cream highlighter under a powder for a long-lasting glow.
- 9. Use a damp sponge: For liquid highlighters, a damp beauty sponge can help blend the product seamlessly.
- 10. Experiment: Don’t be afraid to try different techniques and products to find what works best for you.
Comparison of Top Highlighters
| Product | Type | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector | Powder | $38 | All skin types |
| Glossier Haloscope | Stick | $22 | Dry skin |
| RMS Beauty Living Luminizer | Cream | $38 | Eco-conscious |
| Fenty Beauty Killawatt | Powder | $36 | All skin tones |
| MAC Mineralize Skinfinish | Baked Powder | $36 | Buildable glow |
| Hourglass Ambient Lighting | Powder | $48 | Soft-focus finish |
| Charlotte Tilbury Light Wand | Liquid | $38 | Luminous finish |
| Benefit Watt’s Up! | Cream-to-Powder | $30 | Champagne glow |
| Anastasia Amrezy | Powder | $29 | Golden glow |
| L’Oreal Lumi Glow Amour | Liquid | $15 | Affordable option |
How to Apply Highlighter for a Natural Look
- Prep your skin: Start with a clean, moisturized face. Apply your foundation and concealer as usual.
- Choose your highlighter: Pick a shade that complements your skin tone.
- Apply to high points: Use a brush or your fingers to apply highlighter to the tops of your cheekbones, the bridge of your nose, and your cupid’s bow.
- Blend: Use a damp beauty sponge or brush to blend the highlighter into your skin for a seamless finish.
- Set if needed: If you have oily skin, lightly set your highlighter with a translucent powder to keep it in place.
- Finish your look: Complete your makeup with blush, bronzer, and setting spray to lock everything in place.
FAQ: Your Highlighter Questions Answered
Q: Can I use highlighter without foundation?
A: Absolutely! Highlighter can be used on bare skin for a fresh, natural glow.
Q: How do I choose the right highlighter shade?
A: Choose a shade that complements your skin tone – pearly for fair skin, gold for medium skin, and bronze for dark skin.
Q: Can highlighter be used during the day?
A: Yes! Just apply a light amount for a subtle daytime glow.
Q: How can I make my highlighter last longer?
A: Layer a cream highlighter under a powder one and set with a setting spray for longevity.
Q: Is there a difference between shimmer and glitter highlighters?
A: Yes, shimmer highlighters offer a subtle glow, while glitter highlighters have larger particles for a more dramatic look.
And there you have it, lovelies! With these tips and tricks, you’re all set to find the perfect highlighter for a natural look that suits you best. Remember, makeup is all about experimenting and having fun, so feel free to try different products and techniques until you find your glow sweet spot. If you found this guide helpful, why not share it with a friend or check out our other beauty tips and tricks? Here’s to glowing with confidence!
