Sunkissed glow in the dead of winter?? Yes, believe me, it’s always possible to fake it thanks to the beauty of highlighters; metaphorically and literally. I’m serious, these products are stunning, just in the packaging alone. While the options are truly endless (don’t get me started) these are a few of my favorites.
Marc Jacobs Dew Drops Coconut Gel Highlighter
This one is definitely on the pricier end of the spectrum. If I’m being completely honest, my worst impulses definitely took over here. When it came to my bank statement, I just couldn’t look. But hey, here I am, glowing and living to tell the tale. Now, if you can look past the price, this stuff will make you feel like a luxurious queen (at least that’s what I tell myself).
This highly pigmented, liquid formula comes out in a pump and the tiniest bit goes a long way. Be cautious with this one. I once accidentally used ~one whole pump~ and I looked insane. It’s a good thing though! We want our product to go far, right? I mean that is what I’m paying for.
Possibly one of the best parts of this highlighter is the tropical coconut scent you’ll catch for hours while wearing it. Truly an experience. Anyway you use it will leave beautiful results behind, but my favorite way is to put about half a pump on my face after primer. Layering foundation over this gives your face the most subtle lit-from-within look. Basically, you’ll be looking at your reflection any chance you get.
Frank Body Illuminator
This is 100% the most subtle highlighter out of the three. To all my “no-makeup makeup” ladies, this one is most definitely for you. The ingredients are all natural and the formula itself is what I would describe as a solid cream. I use this baby on the days where I’m wearing no makeup, but still want to fake a little glow (clearly, I have issues).
This silvery illuminator does exactly what it says. It illuminates in a natural way, so don’t expect a completely jaw-dropping result. This product has been proven to fool the people around you into thinking that you simply exist with the sun always shining down on your cheekbones. It’s just science, I can’t make this stuff up.
I use this by rubbing my ring finger into the pot until I’ve worked up a good amount of product. Then, I just tap away. It’s the most satisfying feeling to watch your face go from normal, to normal but better. That’s definitely how to describe this one. Normal, but better.
Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector Pressed Highlighter
To be fair, any Becca pressed highlighter captures the glow that I only wish I could be born with. However, the shade champagne pop and it’s dreamy, gold-tinted hues have me seriously addicted. What I love the most about the formula is the creamy texture. Yes, it is a powder, but it doesn’t feel chalky or powdery in the slightest. And it is SO pigmented. Like, very pigmented. It glides right on and blends into the skin beautifully, making it easily my favorite highlighter of all time. I’ll always come crawling back.
I tend to apply it differently depending on the look I’m going for. Most days I use a small, soft-bristled, angled face brush to apply. When I want to feel more natural but just cannot give up the glow, I apply it with my finger. Its versatility really allows for it to be used any way imaginable. Any method you choose will leave you shimmering.
All highlighters are not created equal. Trust me, I’ve tried many but have been impressed by few. The beauty of the industry is that new products are always on the horizon, meaning there will always be a better formula or a “next big thing.” But for right now, these are the picks I don’t want to live without.