What's the Best Method for Applying Highlighter to Achieve a Subtle Glow?

When it comes to makeup, one of the most coveted looks is a natural, radiant glow that appears as if it's coming from within your skin. The key to achieving this is the strategic use of a highlighter. However, correctly applying highlighter can be an art in itself. This article will take you through the best method to apply highlighters to give your face that subtle glow you desire.

Understanding Highlighters and Their Role in Makeup

Before diving into the application methods, it's essential to know what a highlighter is and how it functions in your makeup routine. A highlighter is a makeup product designed to reflect light, adding a luminous glow to the areas of your face where it's applied. Highlighters come in various forms such as cream, powder, and liquid, each with a unique application method.

One of the main roles of highlighters in makeup is to enhance your facial features. By strategically applying the product, you can give the illusion of higher cheekbones, a more pronounced cupid's bow, or a slimmer nose. Moreover, highlighters add a youthful, fresh-faced glow to your skin, enhancing the overall look of your makeup.

Choosing the Correct Highlighter for Your Skin Undertone

The first step in applying highlighter is choosing the correct product for your skin undertone. A common mistake many make is selecting a highlighter based solely on their skin tone. While skin tone is important, considering your undertone will ensure the highlighter integrates seamlessly with your makeup and gives a more natural glow.

If your skin has warm undertones (yellow, peachy, golden), go for a highlighter with a golden or champagne hue. On the other hand, if your skin has cool undertones (pink, red, or blue), a highlighter with a silver, pearl, or pink hue will suit you best. For neutral undertones, a highlighter with a subtle peach or light gold tone will work well.

Prepping Your Skin and Applying Foundation

Before you apply the highlighter, prepping your skin is crucial. Make sure your face is clean, moisturized, and primed. This ensures a smooth canvas for your makeup and helps your highlighter adhere better to your skin.

Next, apply your foundation. Foundation will even out your skin tone and create a base for the highlighter. If you want a more natural look, opt for a light-coverage foundation or a tinted moisturizer.

Once your foundation is on, you can add blush to the apples of your cheeks to give a natural flush of color. This step is optional, but it adds dimension to your face and gives a youthful appearance.

Applying the Highlighter

The application technique varies depending on whether you're using a cream, powder, or liquid highlighter.

For a cream highlighter, you can use your fingers or a sponge to dab the product onto your skin. Apply it to the high points of your face where light naturally hits: the top of your cheekbones, the bridge of your nose, the brow bone, the inner corners of your eyes, and the cupid's bow of your lip.

If you're using a powder highlighter, you'll need a brush for application. A fan brush or a small, fluffy brush works best. Once you have your brush, lightly swirl it into the product and tap off any excess. Then, apply the highlighter in a sweeping motion to the same high points of your face.

For liquid highlighters, use a sponge or your fingers to blend the product into your skin. Place a small amount on the back of your hand and then gently dab it onto your face, blending as you go.

Creating a Subtle, Natural Glow

For a natural, subtle glow, less is more when it comes to highlighter. Start with a small amount of product and gradually build up to the desired glow. Also, ensure to blend well to avoid harsh lines and make the highlighter appear as if it's a natural part of your skin.

In addition, you can use a setting spray to lock your makeup in place and add a final touch of luminosity. Choose a setting spray with a dewy finish to enhance the glow.

Remember, the goal is to look as if you're glowing from within, so avoid overdoing it with the highlighter. The beauty of makeup is that it's a form of self-expression, so feel free to experiment and find what works best for you.

The Role of Different Types of Highlighters

Regardless of your skin type and preference, there’s a type of highlighter that fits you perfectly. The three major types of highlighters are cream highlighter, powder highlighter, and liquid highlighter.

Cream highlighters are smooth and blend effortlessly into the skin, making them ideal for dry or mature skin types. They offer a sheer glow, which can be built up for more intensity if desired. Cream highlighters often come in stick or palette formats, making them convenient and portable.

Powder highlighters are arguably the most popular type of highlighters. They are best suited for oily to combination skin types, as they help absorb excess oil and stay put throughout the day. They are usually more pigmented, providing a more noticeable glow. Powder highlighters often come in compact forms, but loose powder highlighters are also available.

Liquid highlighters are versatile and can be mixed with your foundation or applied on top for an extra glow. They work great for all skin types but are particularly excellent for achieving a dewy look on normal to dry skin. They are usually packaged in small bottles with a dropper or a built-in brush for application.

In terms of brands, L'Oreal Paris offers a range of highlighters suitable for various skin tones and types. Their True Match Lumi range, for instance, provides options for those looking for a subtle glow or a more dramatic, dewy look.

How to Apply Highlighter Based on Your Face Shape

The high points of your face where you should apply highlighter can vary depending on your face shape. For oval faces, highlight the forehead, brow bone, cheekbones, and cupid's bow to emphasize the face's balanced proportions. For a heart-shaped face, focus the highlighter on the cheekbones and brow bone to balance out the narrower chin.

For round faces, apply the highlighter in a "C" shape, from the brow bone to the tops of your cheekbones. This elongates the face and creates a slimming effect. For square faces, highlight the forehead, chin, and the tops of the cheekbones to soften the sharp angles. If you have a diamond-shaped face, highlight under the eyes extending towards the cheekbones to draw attention to the center of your face.

Regardless of your face shape, avoid applying highlighter all over the face. It's designed to highlight certain areas, overdoing it may lead to a greasy or shiny look rather than a radiant glow.

Final Thoughts

Highlighter is a fantastic tool to enhance your facial features and give your skin a beautiful glow. Remember, the key to achieving a subtle, radiant glow is to apply the highlighter strategically and sparingly. Also, ensure to choose the right type of highlighter and color that matches your skin tone and undertone. Keep in mind the different face shapes and where to position the highlighter accordingly.

Whether it's a cream, powder, or liquid highlighter, start with a small amount and build it up gradually to achieve the perfect glow. Don't forget to blend well and use a setting spray for a long-lasting finish. Remember, makeup is a form of self-expression, so don't be afraid to experiment with different products and techniques until you find what works best for your skin.

With a bit of practice, you'll be a pro at applying your highlighter, and the result will be a natural, radiant glow that makes you feel confident and beautiful. The world of highlighter makeup is vast and exciting, with a range of products to explore from brands like L'Oreal Paris and their True Match Lumi range. Happy highlighting!