Author Jenny Rapson

Makeup’s newest and hottest trend is facial highlighter, and with good reason. The effects of these sparkly powders and creams are dramatic! They give everyone that “professionally lit” look that is usually reserved for models and celebrities.

How do they do it?

• Their light-reflecting tints conceal the dull shadows on your face and cause your facial contours to become brighter.
• Since shadows can make your face look saggy, highlighters can also have a nice “face-lift” effect – no surgery required!
• Highlighters also give you a refreshed look, so even if you’ve been up four times during the night with the baby, your skin can have that well-rested and lifted glow all day.

Prices range from $12-$40. (Secret tip: I’ve heard that E.L.F offers a $1 tube of highlighting cream that is a great product for the price.) They can be found in cream or powder form.

Source: Mary Kay

Creams take a little longer to apply than the powder form, but are easier to use in the smaller contours of the face. Both Chanel and Mary Kay offer their cream highlighters in an easy-to-use pen form.

Powders are easier to apply and are better for an “all-over” effect. Physician’s Formula and Mary Kay both have powder versions that have received rave reviews.

Facial Highlighter Application tips:

Source: Physician's Formula

• Highlighters in cream or powder form or very concentrated – a little goes a long way

• If you have dark under-eye circles, highlighters should not replace your normal concealer. Applying too much cream highlighter over concealer may cause streaking or smearing.

• Highlighters may accentuate dryness, so if you have dryness or flaking, make sure to moisturize well before applying highlighter.

• If your skin needs a “pick-me-up” later in the day, highlighter can be re-applied.

• When using powder highlighter, make sure to tap excess from brush before applying. This will ensure even application.

I’ve been using highlighter for about a month now (the Mary Kay powder is what I’m wearing in the photo above) and I’m completely addicted. I love what it adds to my look, and you will too. Now that you know how, go get yourself some glow!