How to apply highlighter

Highlighter is a fantastic makeup tool that can instantly give your face a luminous glow. Whether you want a subtle radiance or a blinding sheen, using highlighter correctly can take your makeup game to the next level. In this article, we will guide you through step-by-step instructions on how to apply highlighter flawlessly.

Step 1: Choose the Right Highlighter

First things first, you need to select a highlighter that matches your skin tone and desired look. Highlighters come in various forms, including powder, liquid, cream, and stick. Powder highlighters are great for oily skin, while cream or liquid formulas work nicely on dry skin. When choosing a shade, go for a color that complements your undertones. Champagne and rose gold shades suit most skin tones, but fair skin might benefit from pearls or light pink, whereas deeper skin tones may look stunning with golden or bronze tones.

Step 2: Prepare Your Face

Before applying highlighter, make sure your face is clean and moisturized. Applying a primer can also help create a smooth base for the highlighter to adhere to. Additionally, foundation and concealer should be applied beforehand to even out your skin tone. This ensures that the highlighter stands out without any distractions.

Step 3: Determine the Areas to Highlight

Highlighter is generally applied to the high points of your face, such as the cheekbones, brow bone, down the center of the nose, cupid’s bow, and the inner corner of the eyes. However, you can also experiment with other areas, like the collarbones or shoulders, depending on your personal preference.

Step 4: Choose the Right Brush

Using the right brush is crucial for a seamless and natural-looking application. For powder highlighters, opt for a fan brush or a small fluffy brush. These brushes allow for controlled application and prevent the product from looking too heavy-handed. If you prefer a cream or liquid formula, consider using a damp sponge or your fingers to blend the product into your skin.

Step 5: Apply with a Light Hand

Less is more when it comes to highlighter. Start with a small amount and gradually build up if needed. Tap off any excess product from your brush before applying to avoid any overly intense shine. Remember, you can always add more, but it’s much harder to tone down an excessive application.

Step 6: Apply in a Highlighting Motion

To apply the highlighter, use a gentle sweeping or tapping motion. When using a fan brush, start at the highest point of the cheekbone and work towards the temples. If you prefer a liquid or cream highlighter, gently dot the product onto the desired areas and blend it with a sponge or your fingers. Avoid rubbing the product vigorously, as it can disrupt your foundation or concealer.

Step 7: Blend, Blend, Blend

Blending is the key to achieving a natural-looking glow. Use a clean brush or a sponge to gently blend the highlighter into your skin, ensuring there are no harsh lines or obvious demarcations.

Step 8: Set Your Makeup

To ensure that your highlighter stays in place all day, lightly dust a translucent setting powder over your face. This will help to lock in your makeup and prevent any unwanted shine or smudging.

In conclusion, applying highlighter can be a game-changer in your makeup routine. By following these step-by-step instructions, you can achieve a subtle or intense glow that enhances your natural features. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different techniques and products to find your perfect highlighter application style.