What is a stick highlighter?

Definition

A stick highlighter is a makeup tool used to add a luminous glow to the face. It comes in the form of a stick or a pen, and has a creamy texture that blends easily into the skin. The highlighter is used to enhance the high points of the face, such as the cheekbones, the bridge of the nose, and the cupid's bow.

The stick highlighter is usually encased in a twist-up tube, which allows for easy, mess-free application.
It is available in a range of shades, from champagne to rose gold to bronze.
The highlighter can have a subtle sheen or an intense shimmer, depending on the finish.

Stick highlighters are a popular choice for those who want a quick and easy way to add radiance to their complexion. They are versatile, portable, and user-friendly, making them a staple in many makeup bags.

Design

The design of a stick highlighter is simple yet effective. It typically consists of a slim tube that can be twisted up to reveal the product. The tube is often made of sturdy plastic or metal, and may have a cap to protect the product and prevent it from drying out.

The product itself is in a creamy or waxy texture that glides smoothly across the skin without dragging or tugging.
The formula is usually enriched with nourishing ingredients, such as plant oils, that add hydration to the skin.
The stick highlighter may have a flat or pointed tip that allows for precise application.

The packaging of a stick highlighter is often sleek and compact, making it easy to slip into a purse or makeup bag. Some brands even offer mini versions of their popular stick highlighters, which are perfect for travel or touch-ups on the go.

Uses

The uses of a stick highlighter are endless. It can be used to create a subtle, natural-looking glow for everyday wear, or a bold, dramatic effect for special occasions. Here are some of the most common ways to use a stick highlighter:

Apply to the cheekbones to add dimension and lift to the face.
Sweep along the bridge of the nose to slim and define the nose.
Dab onto the inner corners of the eyes to brighten and awaken tired eyes.
Swipe over the cupid's bow to create the illusion of fuller lips.
Pat onto the brow bone for a lifted, sculpted look.

Stick highlighters can also be used in combination with other makeup products, such as foundation and blush, to create a seamless, radiant look. They can be applied before or after foundation, depending on the desired effect. Some people even mix their stick highlighter with their foundation or moisturizer to create a dewy, glowing base.

Overall, a stick highlighter is a versatile and essential tool for anyone looking to add radiance and luminosity to their complexion. Its ease of use and portable design make it a go-to for beauty enthusiasts and makeup artists alike.

What is a Stick Highlighter?

A stick highlighter is a type of makeup product that is used to enhance the appearance of the skin by adding a subtle glow or shine to certain areas. It comes in a stick form, usually with a creamy texture, that is easy to apply and blend. Stick highlighters can be applied to areas such as the cheekbones, brow bones, and inner corners of the eyes to create a highlighted and radiant look.

Pros and Cons

There are several pros and cons to using a stick highlighter, here are some to consider before purchasing one:

Pros:

Easy to apply: Stick highlighters are easy to apply straight from the packaging, and you can blend it out with fingers to your desired look.
Portable: They're small and lightweight, making them easy to carry around in your makeup bag or handbag.
No mess: Unlike powdered highlighters, a stick highlighter does not leave any fallout or mess on your face or clothing.
Long-lasting: A high-quality stick highlighter can last for several hours, and some with formulas that are waterproof, transfer-proof, or sweat-resistant.

Cons:

Less variety: With limited color and texture range compared to other highlighters, people may find it hard to get the perfect match for their skin undertones.
Trend-dependent: Stick highlighters were popular in recent years, which means the market can become saturated very quickly, making it easy to choose a low-quality product that may not work.
Difficult for oily skin: Stick highlighter may not work well for people with oily skin texture, as it may enhance the oily-like-shine on the skin instead of giving that radiant highlight anyone would want.

How to Use

Stick highlighter is easy to apply for a quick and effortless makeup look. Here are some simple steps to follow:

Prep your skin: always cleanse, tone, and moisturize your skin before applying any makeup products.
Apply your base makeup: either foundation, tinted moisturizer or BB cream, and concealer if necessary.
Highlight: Start bending the highlighter over the highest point of your cheekbones, in a circular motion to blend the product evenly, sweep across your brow bones, down the middle of your nose, the inner corners of your eyes, and your Cupid's bow (the upper curve of your lip).
Blend: With your fingers, a highlighter brush, or a damp beauty sponge, begin blending the highlighter outwards into your skin and base makeup until it is seamless and evenly applied.
Set: To ensure the highlighter stays in place and lasts longer, you can set it with setting spray or powder to avoid fading or smudging throughout the day.

Care and Maintenance

After using a stick highlighter, it's important to clean and store it correctly to maintain its quality and prolong its shelf life. Here are some tips:

Clean: Always clean the cap of the highlighter after each use to prevent bacteria or dirt from accumulating and contaminating the product, and also wipe off any excess residue on the outside of the stick.
Store: Store your stick highlighter in a cool and dry place to prevent any melting or damage and always close the lid tightly to avoid any air exposure.
Sharpen: If the highlighter has become dull or has lost its shape, you can sharpen it using a makeup pencil sharpener.
Use: Always use the highlighter on clean skin and avoid applying too much pressure when using it to prevent breakage or damage to the stick.
Replace: As with any makeup product, stick highlighters will eventually expire, so replace it after a year or when it develops an unusual smell or texture.

Alternatives

Stick highlighters may not be suitable for everyone, but there are several alternatives to consider:

Powder: Powders are the most popular highlighter choice, they come in different shades and formulas, and it's easy to find a perfect match with your skin. It is also a long-lasting option for oily skin.
Liquid: Liquid highlighters give you that glowing and dewy look and is a perfect option for people with dry or normal skin. They are easy to blend, and some formulas can be mixed in with your foundation to give an all-over glow.
Cream: Cream highlighters are perfect for people with dry skin, as they provide a moisture-filled glow. It is easy to blend and provides a natural-looking finish.
Gel: Gel-based highlighters are often overlooked, but they can add a beautiful natural-looking shine to your skin. They are perfect for people with oily skin and don't usually cause breakouts compared to stick highlighters.
Balm: Highlighting balms provide a natural-looking finish while moisturizing your skin. They are easy to use and blend and is known for providing an all-day radiance look.