A highlighter is applied to specific areas of the face to add definition, whereas an illuminator is added all over – both create an attention-grabbing glow where you apply them.
What is a highlighter?A highlighter is used to enhance your natural features and draw the eye to specific parts of your face. It will brighten the part of your face which you apply it to by reflecting light, adding a glow to your look.
What is an illuminator?An illuminator casts light more generally than a highlighter. You can mix the product with your foundation or apply it over the top for a soft glow.
Now that you know the difference between highlighters and illuminators, the next step is understanding where to apply these products.
Applying HighlighterFocus on these areas to enhance your features – you might want to apply the product to a couple of these areas or to all, it depends on your unique face and preference:
• On your cheekbones for a healthy glow • On your browbones to enhance eyes • Down the centre of your nose to make your nose appear slimmer • On the tip of your nose • Cupids bow to enhance lips
To apply powder highlighter, you’ll need a fan highlighter brush. Gently brush the powder highlighter along cheekbones, brow bones, centre, and tip of the nose.
Applying IlluminatorYou can apply illuminator all over or in specific places of your face, depending on the look you want to achieve. Mix illuminator with your foundation or moisturiser to give your skin an overall dewy glow.
Choosing a HighlighterHighlighters come in a number of different formulas:
• Powder • Liquid • Pencil • Crème
How do I choose the right highlighter or illuminator for my skin?To create a flawless glow, you will want to choose an illuminator or highlighter that is two shades lighter than your skin tone:
• For fairer skin, choose a highlighter with pink tints • For darker skin , choose a highlighter with a bronze tone • For medium skin , choose a highlighter with a peach tint
If you’re looking for more makeup and skincare advice, keep exploring the Fragrance Direct blog.