Where to Apply Highlighter: Beginner’s Beauty Guide
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Highlighter is one of the most transformative products in any makeup collection. Applied correctly, it adds a luminous, lit-from-within glow to the high points of your face — creating dimension, lifting features, and giving your skin a healthy, radiant finish. Here's your complete beginner's guide to where and how to apply highlighter.
What Does Highlighter Do?
Highlighter works by reflecting light from the areas where it's applied, creating the illusion of higher cheekbones, a more defined brow bone, and a brighter, more awake appearance. It can be used subtly for a natural glow or built up for a more dramatic, editorial finish.
Where to Apply Highlighter
1. Cheekbones
The cheekbones are the most popular placement for highlighter. Apply to the highest point of the cheekbone — just above the blush — and blend upward and outward toward the temple. Use a light hand and build gradually for a natural, glowing finish.
2. Brow Bone
Applying a small amount of highlighter just beneath the arch of the brow lifts and opens the eye area. Use a small brush or your fingertip to tap the product gently along the brow bone, blending softly to avoid harsh lines.
3. Inner Corners of the Eyes
A touch of highlighter in the inner corners of the eyes instantly brightens the eye area and makes eyes appear larger and more awake. Use a small, precise brush or your fingertip to apply a small amount and blend gently outward.
4. Bridge of the Nose
Applying highlighter down the bridge of the nose creates the illusion of a slimmer, more defined nose. Use a small brush to apply a thin stripe from the brow bone down to the tip of the nose, blending softly on either side.
5. Cupid's Bow
A small amount of highlighter on the cupid's bow — the two peaks of the upper lip — makes lips appear fuller and more defined. Apply with a small brush or your fingertip and blend gently.
6. Chin
A subtle touch of highlighter on the centre of the chin adds dimension and a natural glow. Apply with a light hand and blend well to avoid an unnatural finish.
7. Collarbones and Shoulders
For a body-baring look, dust highlighter along the collarbones and the tops of the shoulders for a sun-kissed, luminous effect. Use a large, fluffy brush for a diffused, natural finish.
Where to Avoid Applying Highlighter
Avoid applying highlighter to areas that already naturally shine, such as the centre of the forehead, the sides of the nose, and the chin if you have oily skin. Highlighting these areas can make skin appear greasy rather than glowing.
How Much Highlighter to Use
Less is more when it comes to highlighter. Start with a small amount and build gradually — it's much easier to add more than to remove excess. A light, natural glow is always more flattering than an overly shiny finish.
When to Apply Highlighter
Apply highlighter after your foundation, blush, and bronzer as the final step of your face makeup. This ensures it sits on top of your base and catches the light effectively.
Choosing the Right Highlighter Formula
- Powder highlighter — Best for oily skin; easy to apply and build up
- Cream highlighter — Best for dry skin; blends seamlessly for a natural, dewy glow
- Liquid highlighter — Can be mixed with foundation for an all-over glow or applied directly to the skin
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✨ Shop Face Makeup — Achieve Your Perfect Glow
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- Magical Glow Blush – Miracle — A radiant cream blush for a healthy, glowing complexion.
- Highlighter Brush — Precise, targeted highlight placement for a luminous finish.
- Fan Brush — Light, diffused highlighter application for a natural glow.
- Glowy 'n' Glam Brush Set — 8 professional brushes including all the essentials for a flawless face.
