The first rule of highlighter? There are no rules. And because there are so many ways to use it, learning how to apply highlighter isn’t exactly straightforward. Highlighters can have a ton of payoff, giving skin a glowy finish as it enhances your bone structure. While it seems easy enough to just swipe on, there are a ton of factors to consider: the look you’re going for, where to apply it, and your preferred formula.
The good news? With our best highlighter makeup tips in hand, you can learn how to highlight in the way that works best for you, whether you’re going for a more low-key glow or are dialing up the glam. Maybe you prefer a versatile liquid luminizer or feel more at ease with buildable creamy formulas—more on the difference between them in a sec. Either way, you’ll be able to wield them with confidence.
Read on to find out how to apply highlighter to get your glowiest complexion yet.
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What is highlighter?
Highlighter is makeup designed to reflect light with either pigments or hydrators to make your skin look more luminous. “It gives you glow in one step,” says Sara Wren, our Director of Artistry. “It brings out cheekbones and creates a subtle or dramatic radiance to your skin.” To her point, applying highlighter to various areas of your face can emphasize certain features, from your brows to your cheekbones. Regardless of your skin tone, if you love a glow, it’s a must for your makeup routine.
What type of highlighter makeup should I use?Not all highlighters are created equal; they can come in a variety of textures like sheer liquids or creamy sticks. First, consider what kind of formula works best for the makeup look you’re doing. Our best cream highlighter, Highlighter Stick, is a winner for beginners. “It’s an amazing, creamy formula that never looks dry or cakey,” says Sara. “It’s also great for layering under your favorite powder highlighter because it boosts glow and keeps powders from fading.” The stick format also allows for more precision if you’re looking to highlight specific areas of the face. Plus, it’s easier to apply, since you can just swipe, blend, and go. With liquid highlighters, such as Bionic Glow, the opportunities are endless. “I go for Bionic Glow if I’m looking for an allover hydrated, subtle glow,” says Sara. “Think of that plump, glowing, fresh-out-of-the-shower skin.” Sara loves to layer Bionic Glow under her concealer, mix it with foundation, or dab it over makeup to top off a look. Our best liquid highlighter delivers a dewy sheen to your skin without veering into sparkle territory. (We promise.) It also packs skincare benefits, thanks to a blend of hyaluronic acid and mushroom extracts. How to Apply HighlighterThere are plenty of ways to apply highlighter. You can use a brush (especially with cream and powder formulas), a makeup sponge, or even your fingers. Where to Apply HighlighterWhether you’re working with our cream or liquid highlighters, “they can be used all over,” says Sara. She uses Bionic Glow as a traditional highlighter, a body illuminator, or even as a mixing medium for powder products. |
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It plays well with others. For instance, you can mix it with moisturizer, foundation, or skin tint for aflattering, soft glow. Or, use it to create custom blush shades with a luminous finish. “I love to mix Bionic Glow in Virtual with Color Chalk in Skip It to create my own pink shimmery liquid blush,” she says.
On your face, highlighter is typically used accompanying bronzer and contour to add dimension to your overall makeup look. You can add shimmer to the tops of your cheekbones, a standard placement for that glow. If you want an extra lit effect, glide on “highlighter to all the high points of your face, like your brow bones, the bridge of your nose, cupid’s bow, and cheekbones,” says Sara. “This gives a soft pop all over your skin and creates a seamless illuminated effect.” This technique known as “strobing” provides a more low-key way to get the most out of your highlighter.
Our cream highlighter sticks lend themselves to other applications, too. “They make amazing eyeshadow toppers,” she says. You can also wear them alone for a soft-glam glossy lid. Add it to the inner corners of your eyes to make them appear brighter and more awake.
Lesson learned: The beauty of highlighter is that it’s basically whatever you want it to be.
Meet the Expert
Sara Wren (she/her) is the Director of Artistry at Milk Makeup. In her role, she does all the makeup artistry and direction for our Milk Makeup global campaigns, educates the staff and field team on application methods, stars in the brand’s social media videos, and travels to different markets spreading Milk Makeup’s good vibes. When she’s not on set, Sara loves experimenting with DIY hair colors, eating tacos, watching basketball, and scouring for vintage cosmetics to add to her impressive collection.
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