A Beginner’s Guide to Choosing the Right Makeup Highlighter

Makeup highlighters are a great addition to any makeup routine as they help enhance natural features, add a glow, and create a radiant finish. However, with a wide variety of highlighters available in the market, it can be overwhelming for beginners to choose the right one that suits their preferences and skin tone. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide to help beginners pick the perfect makeup highlighter.

Understanding Highlighter Types

Highlighters come in different forms such as powders, creams, liquids, and sticks. Each type serves a different purpose and provides a unique finish. Here is a breakdown of the most common highlighter types:

Powder Highlighters

Powder highlighters are the most popular type and are suitable for all skin types. They are easy to apply and provide a natural-looking finish. This type of highlighter is ideal for beginners as it gives them more control over the application.

Cream Highlighters

Cream highlighters are perfect for those with dry or mature skin as they provide a dewy and hydrating effect. They blend seamlessly into the skin, creating a subtle sheen. Beginners may find cream highlighters a bit tricky to work with, but with practice, they can achieve a natural-looking dewy glow.

Liquid Highlighters

Liquid highlighters are typically more intense and offer a higher level of glow. They are best suited for those with normal to dry skin. Beginners can mix a few drops of liquid highlighter with their foundation or moisturizer for an all-over luminosity, or apply it directly to the high points of their face for a targeted glow.

Stick Highlighters

Stick highlighters are convenient and travel-friendly. They are easy to use, making them great for beginners. With their creamy texture, they provide a radiant finish and can be used on bare skin or over foundation. Beginners can easily apply stick highlighters directly to their skin and blend it out with their fingers or a beauty sponge.

Choosing the Right Shade

When it comes to choosing the right shade of highlighter, it is important to consider your skin tone and undertone. The aim is to pick a highlighter shade that complements your complexion and enhances your natural glow. Here are some tips for selecting the right shade:

• Fair Skin: Opt for highlighters with a pearl or champagne undertone to add a soft glow without overpowering your complexion. Avoid shades that are too dark or have a heavy golden undertone.
• Medium Skin: Warm golden undertones work best for medium skin tones. Rose gold or peachy highlighters also add a beautiful radiance to medium skin tones.
• Olive Skin: Golden or bronzy highlighters suit olive skin tones perfectly. Avoid shades with pink or cool undertones as they can appear ashy on your skin.
• Dark Skin: Deep gold or bronze highlighters enhance dark skin tones beautifully. Champagne shades also work well. Avoid light or pale shades as they may not show up on your skin.

How to Apply Highlighter

Proper application is key to achieving a flawless highlight. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to apply highlighter:

1. Prep your skin: Start by applying your foundation, concealer, and powder as usual.
2. Choose the right tools: For powder highlighters, a fan brush or a small fluffy brush works best. For cream, liquid, or stick highlighters, use your fingers or a damp beauty sponge for a seamless blend.
3. Find the high points of your face: The key areas to apply highlighter are the cheekbones, brow bone, bridge of the nose, cupid’s bow, and the inner corners of the eyes.
4. Apply the highlighter: Gently swipe or dab the highlighter onto the high points of your face. For a subtle glow, use a light hand, and for a more intense effect, build up the product gradually.
5. Blend it out: Use a brush or your fingers to blend the highlighter seamlessly into your skin. Avoid harsh lines for a natural finish.
6. Set your makeup: To prolong the wear of your highlighter, lightly dust a setting spray or translucent powder over your entire face.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions about choosing and applying makeup highlighter:

1. Can highlighter be used on all skin tones?

Yes, highlighter can be used on all skin tones. The trick is to choose the right shade that complements your complexion.

2. Is it necessary to use a separate highlighter?

No, a separate highlighter is not necessary. However, it adds a beautiful luminosity to your face and enhances your features.

3. Can I apply highlighter on bare skin?

Yes, you can apply highlighter on bare skin for a natural, fresh-faced glow. Just make sure to moisturize your skin beforehand.

4. Can highlighter be used as eyeshadow?

Absolutely! Highlighters can double as eyeshadows. Apply a small amount to the inner corners of your eyes or sweep it across your lids for an instant brightening effect.

5. How can I make my highlighter last longer?

To make your highlighter last longer, ensure that your base makeup is well-prepped and set. Use a setting spray or a dusting of translucent powder over your highlighter to lock it in place.

Choosing the right makeup highlighter can make a significant difference in your overall makeup look. By understanding the different types, shades, and application techniques, beginners can confidently incorporate highlighter into their routine and achieve a radiant, lit-from-within glow.