Okay, so you’ve got that big event coming up, or maybe you just want to add a little ‘oomph’ to your everyday look. You’re scrolling through endless makeup tutorials, and everyone seems to have that enviable glow. What’s their secret? Chances are, they’re using one of the best shimmer face highlighters to create that lit-from-within radiance. It’s all about finding the right formula and shade to complement your skin tone and achieve the perfect level of luminosity.
But with so many options out there, from subtle sheens to blinding brilliance, where do you even begin? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! We’ve curated a list of the most amazing highlighters on the market, from drugstore steals to high-end splurges. Get ready to explore our comprehensive review and buying guide, designed to help you discover the best shimmer face highlighters to enhance your natural beauty and make you shine!
Before we start our review of the best shimmer face highlighters, here are some related products you can find on Amazon:
Chasing That Lit-From-Within Glow: A Shimmer Highlighter Journey
Okay, let’s be honest, who doesn’t love that instant “wow” factor a good highlighter brings? We’re all chasing that radiant, healthy glow, and the right shimmer highlighter is like a secret weapon in achieving it. Think of it as the perfect Instagram filter, but in real life! From strobing to subtle luminosity, the world of highlighters offers something for everyone. And lately, the trends are all about that eye-catching shimmer, leaving dewy and natural finishes taking a backseat.
But with so many options out there, finding the best shimmer face highlighters can feel a little overwhelming. Liquid, powder, cream—where do you even begin? Don’t worry, we’ve all been there, staring blankly at shelves overflowing with gleaming promises. According to a recent report, the global highlighter market is projected to reach $1.7 billion by 2027, showing just how popular this beauty staple has become. And shimmer formulas are currently leading the charge.
The key is understanding what kind of shimmer you want. Are you looking for a subtle, everyday sheen, or a blinding, ultra-reflective highlight that can be seen from space? Do you prefer a cool-toned champagne shimmer, or a warm, golden glow? Consider your skin tone, your makeup style, and the occasion. After all, the best shimmer face highlighters should enhance your natural beauty, not overpower it.
Throughout this guide, we’ll break down the best shimmer face highlighters available, exploring different formulas, shades, and application techniques. We’ll dive into reviews, compare prices, and give you all the insider tips you need to confidently choose the perfect shimmer highlighter to light up your features and leave you feeling absolutely radiant. Get ready to glow!
5 Best Shimmer Face Highlighters
Fenty Beauty Killawatt Freestyle Highlighter
Rihanna truly broke the internet when Fenty Beauty dropped, and the Killawatt Freestyle Highlighter is still a reigning champion. The finely milled powder melts seamlessly into the skin, delivering a buildable glow that ranges from a subtle sheen to an all-out blinding radiance. Available in a variety of shades, from subtle champagne to bold, vibrant hues, there’s a Killawatt to suit every skin tone and preference.
What really sets this highlighter apart is its long-lasting power. It stays put all day and night without fading or creasing, making it a perfect choice for special occasions or everyday wear. Plus, the unique hybrid formula means it can be used on both the face and body for an all-over luminous effect. It is a game-changer.
Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter
More than just a highlighter, the Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter is a complexion booster designed to give you that lit-from-within glow. This product can be worn alone, under makeup, mixed with foundation, or as a targeted highlighter. The versatility is truly unmatched. It creates a soft-focus effect that blurs imperfections and enhances your natural radiance.
The lightweight formula is incredibly comfortable to wear, and the doe-foot applicator makes it easy to apply precisely where you want it. Unlike some shimmery highlighters, this one avoids chunky glitter and focuses on a smooth, seamless luminosity. If a natural, dewy glow is the goal, this is a must-try.
Hourglass Ambient Lighting Powder
While technically a finishing powder, the Hourglass Ambient Lighting Powder deserves a spot on any best highlighter list. The finely milled powder diffuses light to create a soft, ethereal glow. It doesn’t deliver a high-impact shimmer, but rather a subtle, luminous finish that makes your skin look naturally radiant and perfected.
The magic lies in the Photoluminescent Technology, which captures, diffuses, and softens surrounding light to refine the appearance of the skin. It’s available in multiple shades, each designed to mimic a different type of flattering light source. Think of it as an Instagram filter in powder form.
Rare Beauty Positive Light Liquid Luminizer
Selena Gomez’s Rare Beauty has quickly become a favorite, and the Positive Light Liquid Luminizer is a standout product. This weightless liquid highlighter effortlessly blends into the skin, delivering a radiant, dewy glow. The formula is buildable, so it is easy to customize the intensity from a subtle sheen to a more noticeable highlight.
Infused with light-reflecting pearls, this luminizer creates a natural-looking radiance that doesn’t look glittery or artificial. It’s available in a range of shades to complement various skin tones and can be worn alone, mixed with foundation, or layered over powder highlighter for an extra boost of luminosity. It’s a fantastic choice for those who prefer a liquid formula and a dewy finish.
MILK MAKEUP Supernova Celestial Skin Veil
For a truly unique highlighting experience, look no further than MILK MAKEUP’s Supernova Celestial Skin Veil. This innovative cream highlighter is infused with meteorite dust and shimmer, creating an otherworldly glow. The unique formula feels lightweight and hydrating on the skin, blending seamlessly for a luminous, ethereal finish.
The shade is a universally flattering champagne hue that adds a touch of radiance to any skin tone. It’s buildable, allowing for a customizable glow that ranges from subtle to intense. The stick format makes it super convenient for on-the-go application. This is a great pick for those looking for a cruelty-free and vegan option that delivers a unique, celestial glow.
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Why Do People Need to Buy Shimmer Face Highlighters?
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Ever feel like your skin is missing that something special? Like you’re glowing from the inside out? That’s where the magic of shimmer highlighters comes in. Think of them as the fairy dust of the makeup world, designed to catch the light and accentuate your best features. Maybe you’ve seen your favorite celebrity or influencer sporting a radiant complexion and wondered how they achieve that effortless glow. The answer is often a carefully placed shimmer highlighter. It’s about adding dimension and a subtle luminosity that elevates your entire look.
Imagine you’re getting ready for a night out with friends. You’ve put on your favorite outfit, but you feel like your face looks a little flat under the dim lighting of the restaurant. A quick sweep of a best shimmer face highlighter across your cheekbones, brow bone, and the bridge of your nose instantly transforms your complexion. Suddenly, you look more awake, sculpted, and confident. That subtle shimmer subtly draws attention to your features, creating a soft, ethereal glow that’s perfect for any occasion.
The beauty of a great shimmer highlighter is its versatility. You can go for a subtle, natural sheen for everyday wear, or build it up for a more dramatic, glamorous look for a special event. The best shimmer face highlighters are formulated to blend seamlessly into the skin, avoiding that dreaded chunky or glittery effect. They catch and reflect light in a flattering way, blurring imperfections and creating a youthful, healthy radiance.
Beyond the instant glow, shimmer highlighters are about more than just aesthetics. They’re about feeling good in your own skin. That little touch of shimmer can be a confidence booster, reminding you of your inner radiance. So, why do you need a shimmer highlighter? Because it’s a simple, effective way to enhance your natural beauty, add dimension to your face, and feel your absolute best, one shimmering highlight at a time!
Understanding Different Types of Shimmer Highlighters
Let’s be real, walking down the makeup aisle can feel like navigating a foreign language. So many textures, finishes, and formulations! Knowing the difference between a powder, cream, liquid, and stick highlighter is key to getting that perfect glow. Think of powder highlighters as your reliable, everyday bestie – easy to blend, buildable, and great for setting your makeup.
Cream highlighters, on the other hand, are your dewy skin secret weapon. They melt seamlessly into the skin for a natural radiance, perfect for no-makeup makeup days or when you want that “lit-from-within” look. Imagine heading to brunch with friends – a touch of cream highlighter can instantly elevate your look without feeling overdone.
Liquid highlighters are all about that intense, blinding shine. These are your go-to for special occasions or when you want to make a statement. A tiny drop can go a long way, so start small and build up the intensity. Picture yourself at a wedding or a fancy gala – liquid highlighter will ensure you catch the light with every turn.
Finally, stick highlighters offer convenience and precision. These are fantastic for on-the-go touch-ups or when you want to target specific areas like the bridge of your nose or cupid’s bow. Stash one in your purse for a quick glow boost before a meeting or a date night.
Decoding Highlighter Undertones: Finding Your Perfect Match
Did you know highlighters come in different undertones, just like foundation? Choosing the right undertone is crucial for a natural-looking glow that complements your skin. Warm undertones (think golds, bronzes, and peaches) work beautifully on warmer skin tones, adding a sun-kissed radiance. Imagine you’re going to a summer music festival – a golden highlighter would enhance your natural tan and give you that festival-ready vibe.
Cool undertones (silvers, pinks, and icy whites) flatter cooler skin tones, creating a luminous, porcelain-like finish. Picture yourself getting ready for a winter holiday party – a silver or pink highlighter would complement your cool-toned complexion and add a touch of festive sparkle.
Neutral undertones (champagnes and opalescent shades) are the chameleons of the highlighter world, working well on a variety of skin tones. These are a safe bet if you’re unsure of your undertone. Think of a job interview – a champagne highlighter will give you a polished and professional look without being too flashy.
Don’t be afraid to experiment! Swatch different highlighters on your skin in natural light to see what looks best. You might be surprised to find that a highlighter you never considered actually gives you the most beautiful glow. After all, makeup is about having fun and expressing yourself!
Application Techniques: Mastering the Art of the Glow
Applying highlighter is like painting a masterpiece on your face! The right technique can enhance your features and create a stunning, dimensional look. For a subtle, everyday glow, use a fan brush to lightly dust highlighter on the high points of your cheekbones, brow bone, and the bridge of your nose. Imagine you’re getting ready for a casual day out – this technique will give you a natural, healthy-looking radiance.
For a more intense, blinding highlight, use a damp beauty sponge or a dense brush to pack on the product. This will create a concentrated glow that catches the light from every angle. Picture yourself on a night out dancing with friends – this technique will ensure you stand out on the dance floor.
Don’t forget about the inner corners of your eyes! A tiny touch of highlighter here can instantly brighten your eyes and make you look more awake. This is especially helpful on those days when you’re feeling tired or haven’t gotten enough sleep.
And finally, remember to blend, blend, blend! Harsh lines are a highlighter faux pas. Use a clean brush or your finger to seamlessly blend the highlighter into your skin for a natural, diffused glow. Think of it like creating a soft, ethereal light that enhances your features rather than sitting on top of them.
Maintaining Your Shimmer Highlighter: Storage and Longevity Tips
Just like any other makeup product, your shimmer highlighter needs proper care to maintain its quality and longevity. Proper storage is key. Keep your highlighter in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and humidity. This will prevent the formula from melting, drying out, or becoming discolored. Imagine leaving your highlighter in a hot car – it could ruin the texture and pigment!
Regularly clean your brushes and applicators. Dirty brushes can transfer bacteria to your highlighter, leading to breakouts and affecting the product’s performance. Wash your brushes with a gentle cleanser and let them air dry completely before using them again. Think of cleaning your brushes as a way to protect your skin and ensure a flawless application.
Avoid double-dipping. Dipping a used brush back into your highlighter can contaminate the product with oils and bacteria from your skin. Instead, dispense a small amount of product onto a palette or the back of your hand and use a clean brush to apply it. This will help keep your highlighter clean and hygienic.
Check the expiration date. Like all makeup products, highlighters have an expiration date. Using expired products can cause skin irritation or infection. Pay attention to the product’s PAO (Period After Opening) symbol, which indicates how long the product is safe to use after it’s been opened. Even if your highlighter looks and smells fine, it’s best to replace it after the expiration date to avoid any potential problems.
Best Shimmer Face Highlighters: Your Ultimate Buying Guide
Hey there, glow-getter! Ready to illuminate your complexion and unleash your inner radiance? Navigating the world of shimmer face highlighters can feel overwhelming, especially with so many options promising that coveted lit-from-within glow. But don’t worry, I’m here to be your guide and help you find the best shimmer face highlighters for your unique skin and style. This isn’t about chasing trends, it’s about finding a product that makes you feel confident and beautiful.
Think of me as your friend who’s already experimented with a ton of highlighters and is ready to share all the juicy details – the good, the bad, and the downright sparkly! We’ll break down everything you need to consider before swiping your credit card, ensuring you end up with a highlighter that complements your skin tone, texture, and personal preference. So, let’s dive into the world of shimmer and discover how to find your perfect match!
1. Skin Tone Harmony: Finding Your Perfect Shade
Okay, friend, listen up! Choosing the right shade is absolutely crucial. Imagine buying a foundation that’s completely off from your skin tone – the same principle applies to highlighters. A highlighter that looks stunning on someone with fair skin might appear ashy or unnatural on someone with a deeper complexion. It’s all about finding a shade that complements and enhances your natural coloring.
For those with fair skin, opt for pearly white, champagne, or light pink highlighters. These shades will add a subtle, ethereal glow without looking too overpowering. Medium skin tones can rock gold, rose gold, and peachy highlighters. These warmer hues will add a beautiful sun-kissed radiance. And for those with deep skin tones, copper, bronze, and golden highlighters are your best friends. They’ll create a stunning, luminous effect that truly pops. Remember, the goal is to enhance, not mask, your natural beauty.
2. Shimmer Intensity: Subtle Sheen or Bold Sparkle?
Alright, let’s talk about sparkle! Do you envision a soft, subtle glow or a dazzling, head-turning shimmer? The intensity of the shimmer is a personal preference, but it also depends on the occasion and your overall makeup style. Some of the best shimmer face highlighters come in a range of intensity levels, so you can find exactly what you’re looking for.
For everyday wear, you might prefer a highlighter with finely milled shimmer particles that create a subtle, diffused glow. This will give you a natural, healthy-looking radiance without being too flashy. However, for a night out or a special event, you might want to dial up the intensity with a highlighter that contains larger shimmer particles or even glitter. Just be mindful of how the shimmer translates in different lighting – what looks stunning indoors might appear a bit too intense under harsh sunlight.
3. Formula: Powder, Cream, or Liquid – Which is Right for You?
The world of highlighters is filled with different formulas, each with its own unique benefits and application techniques. Powder highlighters are the most common and are generally easy to apply with a brush. Cream highlighters offer a dewy, natural finish and are great for dry skin. Liquid highlighters are highly pigmented and can be used alone or mixed with foundation for an all-over glow.
Consider your skin type when choosing a formula. If you have oily skin, a powder highlighter might be your best bet as it can help absorb excess oil and prevent shine. If you have dry skin, a cream or liquid highlighter can provide extra hydration and a dewy finish. Experiment with different formulas to see which one works best for you and provides the most flattering result. The best shimmer face highlighters come in all three formulations, so it’s truly a matter of preference.
4. Undertones: Warm, Cool, or Neutral?
Just like with foundation, understanding your undertones is key to finding the perfect highlighter shade. Your undertones are the subtle hues beneath the surface of your skin – warm, cool, or neutral. Highlighters with matching undertones will blend seamlessly into your skin and create a more natural, harmonious glow.
To determine your undertones, look at the veins on your wrist. If they appear blue or purple, you likely have cool undertones. If they appear green, you likely have warm undertones. If you can’t tell if they’re blue or green, you likely have neutral undertones. If you have warm undertones, look for highlighters with golden, peachy, or bronze hues. If you have cool undertones, opt for highlighters with silver, pink, or lavender hues. And if you have neutral undertones, you can experiment with a wider range of shades.
5. Blendability: Seamless Application is Key
Imagine investing in a beautiful highlighter only to find that it’s impossible to blend! Harsh lines and obvious streaks are the enemy of a natural-looking glow. A good highlighter should melt seamlessly into your skin, creating a soft, diffused radiance. Look for formulas that are finely milled and have a smooth, buttery texture.
Before purchasing, read reviews and watch tutorials to see how the highlighter performs on different skin types. Look for descriptions like “easily blendable,” “buildable coverage,” or “seamless finish.” When applying, use a light hand and a fluffy brush to avoid over-application and ensure even distribution. You want the highlighter to enhance your features, not sit on top of your skin like a stripe of glitter.
6. Longevity: Staying Power for All-Day Radiance
What’s the point of applying a gorgeous highlighter if it fades away after a few hours? A long-lasting highlighter will keep you looking radiant throughout the day or night, without requiring constant touch-ups. Look for formulas that are designed to resist fading, creasing, and smudging.
Consider factors like your skin type and the climate you live in. If you have oily skin or live in a humid environment, you might want to opt for a powder highlighter with oil-absorbing properties. If you have dry skin or live in a dry climate, a cream or liquid highlighter might be a better choice as they can provide extra hydration and prevent the highlighter from looking cakey. Setting your highlighter with a setting spray can also help prolong its wear time.
7. Ethical Considerations: Cruelty-Free and Sustainable Options
In today’s world, it’s important to consider the ethical impact of our purchases. Many consumers are seeking cruelty-free and sustainable beauty products, and fortunately, there are many options available when it comes to highlighters. Look for brands that are transparent about their ingredients and manufacturing processes.
Check for certifications like Leaping Bunny or PETA to ensure that the highlighter is cruelty-free and has not been tested on animals. Consider brands that use sustainable packaging and are committed to reducing their environmental impact. You can find the best shimmer face highlighters without compromising your values and contributing to a more ethical and sustainable beauty industry. It feels good to glow, but it feels even better to do so responsibly!
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is a shimmer highlighter and how is it different from other highlighters?
Okay, so imagine capturing the most beautiful light and bottling it up for your face! That’s essentially what a shimmer highlighter does. It’s a makeup product designed to illuminate and accentuate specific areas of your face, giving you a radiant, healthy glow. The key difference from other highlighters, like matte ones, is the presence of fine, light-reflecting particles – the “shimmer.” These particles catch the light in a really pretty way, creating that sought-after luminous effect.
Think of it this way: matte highlighters add dimension through subtle contouring, while shimmer highlighters literally highlight and bring areas forward. They’re fantastic for adding a youthful, dewy look, making your cheekbones pop, or brightening up the inner corners of your eyes. Choosing between a shimmer and matte depends on your personal preference and the overall makeup look you’re aiming for!
How do I choose the right shimmer highlighter shade for my skin tone?
Choosing the right shade can feel tricky, but don’t worry, it’s simpler than it seems! The general rule is to pick a highlighter that’s only one or two shades lighter than your natural skin tone. For fair skin, opt for pearly white, champagne, or light pink shades. Medium skin tones look amazing with gold, rose gold, or peach highlighters. And for deeper skin tones, bronze, copper, or deeper gold shades will really complement your complexion.
Beyond the general rules, consider your undertones. If you have cool undertones (usually indicated by pink or blue hues in your skin), silver or icy shades will work well. For warm undertones (yellow or golden hues), gold or bronze highlighters are a perfect match. If you’re neutral, you can experiment with both warm and cool tones! Ultimately, the best way to find your perfect shade is to try a few different options and see what makes your skin glow.
Where exactly should I apply shimmer highlighter on my face?
Great question! Placement is key for achieving that gorgeous, illuminated look without going overboard. The most common areas are the tops of your cheekbones, along the brow bone (just below your eyebrow), the inner corners of your eyes, and the Cupid’s bow (the dip above your upper lip). These are the areas where light naturally hits your face.
You can also lightly dust some highlighter down the bridge of your nose for a slimming effect, or blend a tiny bit onto the center of your forehead and chin for added dimension. Remember, less is more! Start with a small amount and build up the intensity gradually until you achieve your desired level of radiance. A fan brush is your best friend for a soft, diffused application.
I have oily skin. Can I still use shimmer highlighter?
Absolutely! Oily skin doesn’t mean you have to shy away from the glow. The key is to choose the right formula and apply it strategically. Instead of opting for overly shimmery or glittery highlighters, look for ones with a more refined, subtle shimmer. Powder formulas tend to work best for oily skin as they help absorb excess oil.
Also, be mindful of where you apply the highlighter. Focus on the high points of your face, avoiding areas prone to oiliness, like your T-zone. Setting your makeup with a mattifying powder after applying your highlighter can also help control shine and keep your glow in place all day. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for your skin!
What’s the difference between powder, cream, and liquid shimmer highlighters? Which one should I choose?
Each type of highlighter has its own unique benefits and application methods! Powder highlighters are generally the easiest to use and are great for building up intensity. They’re best suited for normal to oily skin and work well with powder foundations. Cream highlighters offer a dewy, natural-looking glow and are ideal for dry or mature skin. They blend seamlessly into the skin and can be applied with your fingers or a damp sponge.
Liquid highlighters are incredibly versatile and can be mixed with foundation or moisturizer for an all-over glow, or applied directly to the high points of the face for a more intense highlight. They’re suitable for all skin types, but it can be helpful to note that some can dry quickly. To choose what’s best for you, think about your skin type, your preferred makeup finish, and the level of intensity you’re going for.
My shimmer highlighter looks too glittery. How can I tone it down?
Don’t worry, we’ve all been there! If your highlighter is looking a bit too intense, there are a few simple tricks you can try. First, make sure you’re using a light hand when applying. Using a fan brush instead of a denser brush will help to distribute the product more evenly and prevent over-application.
Another trick is to gently blend the edges of the highlighter with a clean brush or your fingertip to soften the look. You can also apply a light layer of translucent powder over the highlighter to tone down the shimmer. If all else fails, try mixing a tiny amount of your highlighter with your moisturizer and applying it to your face for a subtle, all-over glow.
Can I use a shimmer highlighter as an eyeshadow?
Absolutely! Shimmer highlighters are incredibly versatile and can definitely double as eyeshadows. In fact, many people use them for this purpose to create a bright, luminous look on the eyelids. The shimmer particles catch the light beautifully, making your eyes appear wider and more awake.
You can apply the highlighter to your entire eyelid for a wash of shimmer, or just to the inner corners of your eyes to brighten them up. Use a small, dense brush for precise application, or your fingertip for a more diffused look. Just be sure to avoid getting the product into your eyes and enjoy the added sparkle!
The Bottom Line
Okay, ready to unlock your inner radiance? We’ve explored a dazzling array of options, from subtle glows to full-on luminosity, designed to flatter every skin tone and style. Armed with this knowledge, you’re now equipped to confidently navigate the world of best shimmer face highlighters and find your perfect match. Don’t be afraid to experiment, play with different formulas, and discover the unique ways these illuminating products can enhance your natural beauty.
Consider this your permission slip to embrace your glow! Go forth, explore the endless possibilities of shimmer and shine, and remember that the most beautiful highlight comes from within. Find that perfect shade, learn that killer application technique, and then go out there and light up the world, one cheekbone at a time. You’ve got this!