Ingredients
Liquid highlighter is a beauty product that is used to give the skin a radiant and luminous glow. The ingredients used in liquid highlighters can vary depending on the brand and formulation. However, some of the common ingredients found in most liquid highlighters are:
- Hydrating ingredients like glycerine and hyaluronic acid that provide moisture to the skin and improve its texture.
- Mica, which is a naturally occurring mineral that is responsible for the shimmer and shine in the highlighter.
- Various oils and emollients that help in the even application of the highlighter and improve its longevity.
- Pigment, which can be either synthetic or natural. The pigments are responsible for the colour of the highlighter and range from light gold to pinks and purples or even holographic hues.
Some liquid highlighters also contain skincare ingredients like Vitamin C and antioxidants that helps in protecting the skin from environmental damage.
Application
Applying liquid highlighter demands a little expertise as a little goes a long way. Here is a step-by-step process to perfectly apply liquid highlighter:
- Prep the skin with moisturizer and primer. You can also mix some liquid highlighter with your primer, BB cream or foundation for an all-over glow.
- Using a brush, dot the liquid highlighter on the high points of your face like cheeks, brow bone, bridge of nose, cupid's bow and chin.
- Using a sponge or fingertips, blend the highlighter evenly and in circular motion.
- For a more subtle look, you can apply the highlighter before your foundation, and for a more intense look, you can apply it after foundation and set it with a powder highlighter for a longer-lasting effect.
- Take caution not to overdo it or apply too much pressure as it could overexpose the highlighter.
- If you have oily skin, avoid applying highlighter on your forehead or nose as it can accentuate oiliness.
- To use the highlighter on the body, apply it on the collarbone, shoulders and legs for a glowy look.
Finishes
Liquid highlighters offer various finishes, and these are designed to complement different skin types and looks. Here are some common finishes of liquid highlighter.
- Dewy Finish - This finish is ideal for someone who wants to have a natural-looking dewy glow. A dewy finish highlighter reflects light perfectly to produce a naturally radiant complexion.
- Glittery Finish - Glittery finish highlighters are perfect for making a statement or for special occasions. This formulation has more sparkle or glitter that provides a reflective shine, perfect for people who love a bold look.
- Metallic Finish - Metallic finish highlighters have more intense color and shine than dewy finishes. This formulation is perfect for people who love a dramatic look or people who have darker skin due to the deeper pigments and metallic shine in the highlighter.
- Pearlescent Finish - Pearlescent finish highlighters are a cross between dewy and metallic finishes. This finish has minute pearls that provide a natural-looking radiant glow on the skin. It is perfect for all skin types and can work for both a natural or bold look depending on how much you apply.
Understanding the various liquid highlighter finishes can assist you in choosing the right finish to match your look or event. It’s not a one-size-fits-all product, and we recommend trying different highlighters to see which works best on your skin.
Skin Types
Liquid highlighter is a popular makeup product that is used to create a dewy, luminous look. It is available in a variety of shades, and can be used to highlight the cheekbones, brow bone, and other areas of the face. However, it is important to choose a liquid highlighter that is suitable for your skin type.
- If you have dry skin, you should opt for a liquid highlighter that is hydrating and moisturizing. Look for a formula that contains ingredients like hyaluronic acid, which can help to plump and hydrate the skin.
- If you have oily or combination skin, you may want to choose a matte liquid highlighter. These formulas are designed to control oil and shine, and can help to create a more polished matte finish.
- If you have sensitive skin, it is important to choose a liquid highlighter that is free of irritants and fragrance. Look for gentle formulas that are designed to be kind to sensitive skin.
- If you have mature skin, you may want to opt for a liquid highlighter that contains anti-aging ingredients like peptides and vitamin C. These ingredients can help to boost collagen production and brighten the complexion.
Formulas
Not all liquid highlighters are created equal, and there are several different formulas to choose from. Some of the most popular formulas include:
- Liquid: This is the most traditional formula for liquid highlighter. It is easy to apply and blend, and typically provides a subtle glow. These are also typically hydrating.
- Gel: Gel highlighters are thicker and provide a more intense, reflective sheen. They are often used on fuller glam makeup looks.
- Cream: Cream highlighters are thicker than liquid highlighters, but not quite as intense as gel highlighters. They are easy to apply and blend, and provide a natural, dewy finish. They also tend to last longer on the skin.
- Powder: Powder highlighters are designed to be applied over foundation or other makeup products. They come in various shades and finishes, and provide a more intense, shimmery glow than liquid highlighters. They can also be layered for a buildable intensity.
Layering
One of the great things about liquid highlighter is that it can be used alone, or layered with other makeup products for a more intense glow. To get the most out of your liquid highlighter, consider these layering tips:
- Use a liquid highlighter to prime the skin before applying foundation. Mix a small amount of liquid highlighter with your primer to create a radiant base for your foundation.
- Apply liquid highlighter over foundation. This will create a luminous, skin-like finish that looks natural and radiant.
- Layer liquid highlighter under powder highlighter for a more intense glow. This will help to create a multidimensional, shimmery effect that will make your skin look lit from within.
- Use liquid highlighter to highlight specific features on your face, such as the inner corners of your eyes, the cupid's bow of your lips, or the bridge of your nose. This will help to create a more sculpted, defined look.
Removal
When it comes to removing liquid highlighter, it is important to cleanse your skin thoroughly. If left on for too long, liquid highlighter can clog your pores and lead to breakouts. Here are some tips for removing liquid highlighter:
- Use an oil-based cleanser to remove liquid highlighter. These will break down and dissolve makeup better than water-based cleansers.
- Use cotton pads or a cleansing brush to gently massage the cleanser into the skin, paying special attention to areas where you have applied the liquid highlighter.
- Rinse your skin with lukewarm water and pat dry with a clean towel. Avoid rubbing or scrubbing your skin.
- Follow up with a toner or gentle exfoliant to help remove any remaining traces of liquid highlighter.
