The illuminator, better known in the beauty world as a highlighter, has become a essential product in the makeup routine thousands of people. This cosmetic, which has gained a prominent place in makeup bags around the world, has as its main function to emphasize facial features and enhance the skin's natural luminosity. In this article, we will explore the types, shades and techniques for applying highlighter to achieve a perfect finish that suits every face.
What is highlighter and what is it used for?
The highlighter is a makeup product designed to highlight the areas of the face where the light falls naturally. Therefore, its main function is to provide luminosity to the face, helping to create a fresh, rejuvenated and healthy appearance. In addition, well applied, it can even have a visual lifting effect or stylize facial features by highlighting strategic points such as the cheekbones, Cupid's bow and the nasal septum.
An important feature of the illuminator is its versatility. This can be used in both day and night makeup, adapting to natural or more daring styles. For example, in an office makeup, it is enough to apply highlighter in two strategic areas, while, for a night event, it can be used in more areas to achieve a full glow effect.
Types of highlighters: choose the best one for you
The market offers various highlighter options to suit the needs of each skin type and makeup style. These are the main ones:
- Powder highlighter: Ideal for beginners and one of the most popular in stores. It is perfect for sensitive skin. fat as it does not increase the feeling of oiliness. It is applied with specific brushes that help to diffuse the product, achieving an even finish.
- Liquid highlighter: It offers a more natural finish and is easier to mix with other products such as foundations or serums. It works well on all skin types, but it is Ideal for combination and mature skin due to its light texture.
- Cream highlighter: Its texture is perfect for dry skin, as it provides a luminous and juicy effect. In addition, when applied with the fingers, it is easily diffused and provides a realistic finish.
- Highlighter in bar or stick: It stands out for its practicality and precision when applied directly to the desired areas. It is perfect to carry in your bag and make quick touch-ups.
- Highlighter on brush: Designed for those seeking maximum precision, especially useful for highlighting details such as the eyebrow arch or tear duct.
How to choose the right shade of highlighter
Selecting the ideal shade of highlighter is key to achieving a balanced and flattering makeup. The basic rule is to choose a tone that is two shades lighter than your skinHere are some recommendations based on your skin type:
- Clear skin: Opt for pearl, silver or pink tones. These reflect light in a soft and they harmonize perfectly with this type of skin.
- Medium skin: Peach and champagne tones are ideal, providing a warm glow that enhances natural features.
- Dark skin: Gold, bronze or copper tones are the most flattering, as they offer a perfect contrast to highlight the features.
Where and how to apply highlighter?
The key to effective use of highlighter is in highlight the most prominent areas of the face, where the light naturally falls. These are the most common areas to apply highlighter:
- Cheekbones: Apply to the tops of the cheekbones and blend towards the temples for a natural lifting effect.
- Eyebrow arch: Highlighting this area creates the effect of a more awake look and raised eyebrows.
- Nose: Apply a small amount to the septum to stylize it and to the tips to give it a snub effect.
- Cupid's Bow: Highlight the upper lip area to achieve a visual effect of greater volume on the lips.
- Tear: Adding a touch of highlighter here brings freshness and a brighter look.
In addition to these key areas, many professional makeup artists suggest extending the use of highlighter to areas such as the collarbones and shoulders at special events for an overall radiant effect.
Additional techniques and expert tips
If you want to take your highlighter use to the next level, here are some advanced tips:
- Natural effect: Mix one or two drops of liquid highlighter with your foundation for an all-over glow finish.
- Suitable brushes: Use small, soft-bristled brushes to apply powder highlighters for greater precision.
- Avoid excesses: Less is more. Applying too much highlighter can give the skin an oily effect rather than a glowing one.
Mastering the art of applying highlighter not only enhances your makeup, but also boosts your confidence and the way you highlight your strengths. Don't forget to experiment with different products and techniques until you find the look that best suits you.
Discover how this small but powerful product can transform your face and make it the center of attention. Now that you know all the secrets of highlighter, are you ready to shine?