Choosing the best Cream Highlighter: A Simple Guide

Chapter 1. Introduction

1.1. Understanding Cream Highlighters

Definition and Purpose of Cream Highlighters: Cream highlighters are makeup products designed to add a luminous glow to the skin. Unlike powder highlighters, cream highlighters have a creamy texture that blends seamlessly into the skin, providing a natural, dewy finish. They are typically used to accentuate the high points of the face, such as the cheekbones, brow bones, and the bridge of the nose, creating a radiant and youthful appearance.

Benefits of Using Cream vs. Powder Highlighters:

Blendability: Cream highlighters are easier to blend into the skin, making them ideal for achieving a natural look.
Hydration: They often contain moisturizing ingredients, which can be beneficial for dry skin.
Versatility: Cream highlighters can be layered under or over foundation and can also be mixed with other products for a customized glow.

1.2. Why You Should Consider Cream Highlighters

Skin Types and Suitability: Cream highlighters are suitable for various skin types. They are particularly beneficial for dry and mature skin due to their hydrating properties. However, they can also work well on normal and combination skin types. For oily skin, it’s essential to choose a non-greasy formula to avoid excess shine.

Versatility in Makeup Routines: Cream highlighters are incredibly versatile. They can be used alone for a subtle glow or layered with other products for a more intense highlight. They can also be applied to different areas of the face and body, making them a multifunctional addition to any makeup routine.

1.3. How to Choose the Right Cream Highlighter

Factors to Consider (Skin Tone, Finish, etc.):

Skin Tone: Choose a highlighter shade that complements your skin tone. For fair skin, opt for champagne or pearl shades. Medium skin tones can go for gold or peachy tones, while deeper skin tones look stunning with bronze or copper shades.
Finish: Decide whether you prefer a dewy or matte finish. Dewy finishes provide a more radiant glow, while matte finishes offer a subtle, natural look.
Ingredients: Look for highlighters with skin-friendly ingredients, especially if you have sensitive skin.

Common Misconceptions:

Too Shiny: Some people believe cream highlighters are too shiny or greasy. However, with the right application and formula, they can provide a beautiful, natural glow.
Difficult to Apply: While cream highlighters may seem tricky to apply, they are quite user-friendly. Using fingers or a makeup sponge can help achieve a seamless blend.

Chapter 2. Top Picks for Cream Highlighters

2.1. Best Overall Cream Highlighter

Product Description and Key Features: The RMS Beauty Living Luminizer is often hailed as the best overall cream highlighter. This product is known for its natural, dewy finish that enhances the skin’s radiance without looking overly shiny. It is formulated with organic ingredients, including coconut oil and castor seed oil, which nourish the skin while providing a luminous glow ¹.

User Reviews and Ratings: Users rave about the RMS Beauty Living Luminizer for its lightweight texture and subtle shimmer. It has received high ratings for its ability to blend seamlessly into the skin and its long-lasting wear. Many users appreciate its versatility, as it can be used on various skin tones and types ¹.

2.2. Best Budget-Friendly Cream Highlighter

Product Description and Key Features: The e.l.f. Cosmetics Halo Glow Liquid Filter is a standout budget-friendly option. This highlighter offers a radiant finish that rivals more expensive products. It is enriched with squalane and hyaluronic acid, which help to hydrate and plump the skin, giving it a healthy glow ².

User Reviews and Performance: Users love the e.l.f. Cosmetics Halo Glow Liquid Filter for its affordability and impressive performance. It has garnered positive reviews for its smooth application and buildable coverage. Many users note that it provides a beautiful, natural-looking highlight without breaking the bank ².

2.3. Best High-End Cream Highlighter

Product Description and Luxury Benefits: The Chantecaille Liquid Lumière is a luxurious cream highlighter available on Amazon. This product is designed to provide a radiant, dewy finish that enhances the skin’s natural glow. It is formulated with light-reflecting pigments and hydrating ingredients like squalane and glycerin, which help to nourish the skin while providing a luminous effect ¹.

User Reviews and Exclusivity: Users praise the Chantecaille Liquid Lumière for its elegant packaging and high-quality formula. It has received excellent reviews for its smooth texture and long-lasting wear. Many users appreciate its versatility, as it can be used on the face, eyes, and even mixed with foundation for an all-over glow ¹.

2.4. Best for Oily Skin

Product Description and Formulation Details: The L’Oréal Paris Makeup Infallible Longwear Highlighter Shaping Stick is an excellent choice for those with oily skin. This highlighter is formulated to provide a radiant finish without adding excess oil. It contains ingredients that help to balance the skin’s moisture levels and provide a long-lasting, non-greasy glow ¹.

User Reviews and Effectiveness: Users with oily skin love the L’Oréal Paris Makeup Infallible Longwear Highlighter Shaping Stick for its lightweight formula and non-greasy finish. It has received high ratings for its ability to stay put throughout the day without making the skin look shiny. Many users appreciate its subtle, buildable glow ¹.

2.5. Best for Dry Skin

Product Description and Hydration Properties: The MILK Makeup Mini Highlighter Stick is a top pick for dry skin. This cream highlighter is infused with hydrating ingredients like mango butter and avocado oil, which help to moisturize and soften the skin. It provides a dewy, glass-like finish that enhances the skin’s natural luminosity ².

User Reviews and Wearability: Users with dry skin rave about the MILK Makeup Mini Highlighter Stick for its hydrating properties and radiant finish. It has received positive reviews for its smooth application and long-lasting wear. Many users note that it gives their skin a healthy, glowing appearance without emphasizing dry patches ².

Chapter 3. Application Techniques for Cream Highlighters

3.1. How to Apply Cream Highlighter

Step-by-Step Application Guide:

Prepare Your Skin: Start with a clean, moisturized face. Apply your foundation and concealer as usual.
Choose Your Tool: You can use your fingers, a makeup sponge, or a brush. Fingers are great for a natural finish, while a sponge or brush can provide more precision.
Apply the Highlighter: Dip your finger or tool into the highlighter. Apply it to the high points of your face: cheekbones, brow bones, the bridge of your nose, and the cupid’s bow.
Blend: Use a tapping or dabbing motion to blend the highlighter into your skin. Avoid rubbing, as this can move your foundation.
Set Your Makeup: If you have oily skin or want your makeup to last longer, lightly dust a translucent powder over the highlighted areas.

Tools You Can Use:

Fingers: Ideal for a quick, natural application. The warmth of your fingers helps blend the product seamlessly.
Makeup Sponge: Provides a smooth, even finish. Dampen the sponge for a dewy look.
Brush: Use a small, dense brush for precise application. A fan brush can also be used for a light, airy finish.

3.2. Tips for Layering Highlighters

Achieving a Natural Glow vs. an Intense Shine:

Natural Glow: Apply a small amount of cream highlighter and blend well. You can layer a powder highlighter on top for a subtle, long-lasting glow.
Intense Shine: Layer multiple products. Start with a cream highlighter, then add a liquid highlighter for extra intensity. Finish with a powder highlighter for maximum shine.

Combining with Other Makeup Products:

Foundation: Apply cream highlighter after your foundation for a seamless blend.
Blush: Apply blush before highlighter to avoid dulling the highlight.
Setting Spray: Use a setting spray to lock in your makeup and enhance the glow.

3.3. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overapplying and Where to Apply:

Overapplying: Less is more. Start with a small amount and build up if needed. Overapplying can make your skin look greasy rather than glowing.
Where to Apply: Focus on the high points of your face where light naturally hits. Avoid applying highlighter to areas with texture or blemishes, as it can accentuate them.

Blending Techniques for a Seamless Finish:

Tapping Motion: Use a tapping or dabbing motion to blend the highlighter. This helps to avoid moving your foundation.
Blending Edges: Ensure the edges of the highlighter are well-blended into your skin for a natural look. Use a clean brush or sponge to soften any harsh lines.

Chapter 4. Best Practices for Storing and Maintaining Cream Highlighters

4.1. Proper Storage for Longevity

Ideal Conditions for Preserving Product Integrity: To ensure your cream highlighter lasts as long as possible, store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Excessive heat and light can cause the product to break down and lose its effectiveness. A bedroom drawer or a makeup organizer in a shaded area is ideal ¹.

Signs of Expiration and When to Discard: Cream highlighters typically have a shelf life of 12 to 18 months. Signs that your highlighter may be expired include changes in texture, color, or smell. If the product becomes dry, crumbly, or develops an off odor, it’s time to discard it ².

4.2. Cleaning Your Highlighter Tools

Importance of Hygiene in Makeup Application: Keeping your makeup tools clean is crucial for maintaining healthy skin and ensuring the best application of your highlighter. Dirty tools can harbor bacteria, leading to skin irritations and breakouts ³.

Best Practices for Tool Maintenance:

Brushes: Rinse the bristles under lukewarm water, avoiding the base of the brush. Apply a gentle shampoo or brush cleanser and lather. Rinse until the water runs clear, then reshape the bristles and lay the brush flat to dry ⁴.
Sponges: Wet the sponge and apply a few drops of mild soap. Squeeze and massage the sponge to remove product buildup. Rinse thoroughly and allow it to air dry ³.
Frequency: Clean your brushes and sponges at least once a week to prevent the buildup of bacteria and ensure optimal performance ⁵.

Chapter 5. The Science Behind Cream Highlighters

5.1. Ingredients to Look For

Key Components That Enhance Glow:

Mica: A natural mineral that provides shimmer and shine. It is commonly used in highlighters to create a luminous effect.
Titanium Dioxide: This ingredient helps to reflect light, giving the skin a radiant glow. It also provides some sun protection.
Squalane: A hydrating ingredient that helps to keep the skin moisturized and smooth. It is often included in cream highlighters to enhance their blendability.
Beeswax: Used as a binding agent, beeswax helps to give cream highlighters their smooth texture and ensures they stay in place on the skin ¹.

Effects of Natural vs. Synthetic Ingredients:

Natural Ingredients: These are derived from natural sources like plants and minerals. They are often preferred for their skin-friendly properties and lower risk of irritation. Examples include mica, squalane, and shea butter.
Synthetic Ingredients: These are man-made and can offer more consistent results. They are often used to enhance the performance and longevity of the product. Examples include synthetic mica and certain types of silicones ¹.

5.2. Understanding Different Finishes

Dewy vs. Matte Finishes:

Dewy Finish: Cream highlighters with a dewy finish provide a fresh, radiant glow. They are ideal for dry or normal skin types and give a youthful, hydrated look. Dewy finishes often contain hydrating ingredients like squalane and shea butter ².
Matte Finish: These highlighters offer a subtle, natural glow without any shine. They are perfect for oily or combination skin types, as they help to control excess oil. Matte finishes often include ingredients like silica to absorb oil and keep the skin looking matte ³.

How Finishes Affect Overall Look:

Dewy Finish: Creates a luminous, glowing effect that can make the skin look more hydrated and youthful. It is perfect for achieving a fresh, radiant look.
Matte Finish: Provides a more understated, natural glow. It is ideal for those who prefer a subtle highlight and want to avoid any shine. Matte finishes can also help to minimize the appearance of pores and fine lines ³.

Chapter 6. Special Occasion Highlighter Guide

6.1. Choosing a Highlighter for Events

What to Consider for Weddings, Parties, etc.: When selecting a highlighter for special events like weddings or parties, consider the following factors:

Lighting: Think about the lighting at the event. For daytime events, a subtle, natural glow is ideal. For evening events, you can opt for a more intense, shimmery highlighter to stand out under artificial lights ¹.
Skin Type: Choose a highlighter that suits your skin type. For oily skin, a powder highlighter can help control shine. For dry skin, a cream or liquid highlighter will provide a dewy finish ².
Outfit and Makeup Look: Match your highlighter to your overall makeup look and outfit. A gold or bronze highlighter pairs well with warm-toned outfits, while a pearl or champagne highlighter complements cool-toned outfits ¹.

6.2. Long-Lasting Highlighter Tips

Tricks to Make Your Highlighter Stay Put All Day:

Prep Your Skin: Start with a clean, moisturized face. Use a primer to create a smooth base for your makeup ³.
Layering: Apply a cream highlighter first, then set it with a powder highlighter. This layering technique helps to lock in the glow and make it last longer ⁴.
Setting Spray: Finish your makeup with a setting spray to keep everything in place. A setting spray with a dewy finish can enhance the glow of your highlighter ³.
Touch-Ups: Carry a small highlighter stick or compact for touch-ups throughout the event. This ensures your glow stays fresh and radiant ⁴.

Chapter 7. Popular Makeup Looks Featuring Cream Highlighters

7.1. Everyday Natural Glow

Step-by-Step Tutorial:

Prep Your Skin: Start with a clean, moisturized face. Apply a lightweight foundation or BB cream for a natural base.
Apply Cream Highlighter: Using your fingers or a makeup sponge, apply a small amount of cream highlighter to the high points of your face: cheekbones, brow bones, the bridge of your nose, and the cupid’s bow.
Blend: Gently blend the highlighter into your skin using a tapping motion. Ensure there are no harsh lines for a seamless finish.
Add Blush: Apply a cream blush to the apples of your cheeks and blend it upwards towards your temples. This adds a healthy flush to your complexion.
Set with Powder (Optional): If you have oily skin or want your makeup to last longer, lightly dust a translucent powder over your face, avoiding the highlighted areas.
Finish with Mascara and Lip Balm: Apply a coat of mascara to your lashes and a tinted lip balm to your lips for a fresh, natural look ¹.

7.2. Glam Evening Look

Step-by-Step Tutorial:

Prep Your Skin: Start with a clean, moisturized face. Apply a full-coverage foundation for a flawless base.
Contour and Highlight: Use a cream contour stick to define your cheekbones, jawline, and the sides of your nose. Blend well. Apply a cream highlighter to the high points of your face: cheekbones, brow bones, the bridge of your nose, and the cupid’s bow.
Blend: Blend the highlighter and contour using a makeup sponge or brush. Ensure there are no harsh lines for a smooth finish.
Add Blush: Apply a powder blush to the apples of your cheeks and blend it upwards towards your temples.
Intensify the Highlight: Layer a powder highlighter over the cream highlighter for an intense glow. Focus on the high points of your face.
Eye Makeup: Apply a shimmery eyeshadow to your eyelids and blend it into the crease. Add eyeliner and mascara for a dramatic effect.
Finish with Lipstick: Choose a bold lipstick shade to complete the look. Apply a lip liner for precision and fill in with your chosen lipstick ².

Chapter 8. Celebrity Favorites and Influencer Recommendations

8.1. Highlighters Recommended by Celebrities

Notable Endorsements and Why They Love Them:

RMS Beauty Living Luminizer: This cream highlighter is a favorite among celebrities like Meghan Markle and Miranda Kerr. They love it for its natural, dewy finish and organic ingredients. Meghan Markle has mentioned that she appreciates its subtle glow that enhances her skin without looking too shiny ¹.
Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter: Celebrities like Kim Kardashian and Amal Clooney swear by this product for its versatile use as a primer, highlighter, or all-over glow. It provides a radiant finish that looks stunning both on and off the red carpet ².
Fenty Beauty Killawatt Freestyle Highlighter: Rihanna’s own brand has become a go-to for many celebrities, including Cardi B and SZA. They love the intense pigmentation and the wide range of shades that cater to all skin tones ³.

8.2. Makeup Artists’ Favorite Products

Professional Insights and Top Picks:

Kevyn Aucoin Glass Glow Face Liquid Highlighter: Makeup artists like Jamie Greenberg and Sarah Tanno recommend this highlighter for its glass-like finish and long-lasting wear. It provides a radiant glow that looks beautiful in photos and under different lighting conditions ⁴.
Danessa Myricks Dew Wet Balm: This product is a favorite of makeup artist Danessa Myricks herself. It offers a dewy, hydrated look that is perfect for editorial shoots and everyday wear. The balm-like texture makes it easy to apply and blend ⁴.
Victoria Beckham Beauty Reflect Highlighter Stick: Makeup artists appreciate this highlighter for its ease of use and buildable coverage. It provides a natural glow that can be intensified for a more dramatic look. The stick format makes it convenient for on-the-go touch-ups ¹.

Chapter 9. Trends in Highlighter Formulations

9.1. Innovative Textures and Finishes

What’s New in the Market:

Hybrid Formulas: Recent trends show a rise in hybrid highlighters that combine the benefits of cream, powder, and liquid formulations. These products offer the blendability of a cream, the staying power of a powder, and the luminosity of a liquid ¹.
Jelly Highlighters: These have a unique, bouncy texture that provides a wet-look finish. They are easy to apply and blend, offering a high-shine effect without feeling heavy on the skin ¹.
Multi-Chromatic Highlighters: These highlighters shift colors depending on the angle of the light, providing a multi-dimensional glow. They are perfect for creating a bold, eye-catching look ².

9.2. The Rise of Clean Beauty Highlighters

Sustainability and Ingredient Transparency:

Natural and Organic Ingredients: There is a growing demand for highlighters made with natural and organic ingredients. These products avoid harmful chemicals like parabens, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances, making them safer for the skin and the environment ³.
Eco-Friendly Packaging: Brands are increasingly adopting sustainable packaging solutions, such as recyclable materials and minimalistic designs, to reduce their environmental impact ⁴.
Ingredient Transparency: Consumers are becoming more conscious of what they put on their skin. Brands are responding by providing detailed ingredient lists and highlighting the benefits of each component. This transparency helps build trust and allows consumers to make informed choices ⁵.

Chapter 10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

10.1. What are the best shades for cream highlighters?

The best shades for cream highlighters depend on your skin tone:

Fair Skin: Opt for pearl, champagne, or light pink shades.
Medium Skin: Gold, peach, and rose gold shades work well.
Deep Skin: Bronze, copper, and deep gold shades are ideal ¹.

10.2. Can cream highlighters be used on eyelids?

Yes, cream highlighters can be used on eyelids to add a subtle shimmer. They can act as a base for eyeshadow or be worn alone for a natural, glowing look ².

10.3. How do cream highlighters compare to liquid highlighters?

Cream highlighters are thicker and provide a more natural, dewy finish. They are easier to blend and are ideal for dry or normal skin. Liquid highlighters are more lightweight and can offer a more intense shine. They are suitable for all skin types and can be mixed with foundation for an all-over glow ³.

10.4. Are cream highlighters suitable for sensitive skin?

Yes, many cream highlighters are formulated with gentle, skin-friendly ingredients that are suitable for sensitive skin. Look for products that are free from parabens, sulfates, and synthetic fragrances ⁴.

10.5. How can I make highlighter last all day?

To make your highlighter last all day:

Prep Your Skin: Use a primer before applying highlighter.
Layer Products: Apply a cream highlighter first, then set it with a powder highlighter.
Use Setting Spray: Finish with a setting spray to lock in your makeup.

Chapter 11. Conclusion

11.1. Recap of the Best Cream Highlighters

Summary of Top Choices:

Best Overall: RMS Beauty Living Luminizer – Known for its natural, dewy finish and organic ingredients.
Best Budget-Friendly: e.l.f. Cosmetics Halo Glow Liquid Filter – Affordable with impressive performance and hydrating properties.
Best High-End: Chanel Baume Multi-Use Glow Stick – Luxurious with a sheer, dewy finish and elegant packaging.
Best for Oily Skin: Rituel de Fille Rare Light Crème Luminizer – Lightweight, non-greasy formula perfect for oily skin.
Best for Dry Skin: Danessa Myricks Dew Wet Balm – Hydrating with a glass-like finish, ideal for dry skin ¹.

11.2. Final Thoughts on Incorporating Cream Highlighters into Your Routine

Empowering Readers to Choose the Best Product for Their Needs: Cream highlighters are a versatile and essential addition to any makeup routine. They offer a natural, radiant glow that can enhance your features and give your skin a healthy, youthful appearance. Whether you prefer a subtle shimmer or an intense shine, there is a cream highlighter out there to suit your needs. By considering your skin type, desired finish, and the occasion, you can select the perfect highlighter to achieve your desired look. Remember to experiment with different application techniques and layering methods to find what works best for you. With the right product and application, cream highlighters can elevate your makeup game and help you achieve a beautiful, glowing complexion ².

Chapter 12. Highlighter Hacks and Tips

12.1. Multi-Use Highlighter Hacks

Using Highlighter for Eyes, Lips, and Body:

Eyes: Apply a small amount of cream highlighter to the inner corners of your eyes and under the brow bone to brighten and lift your eyes. You can also use it as an eyeshadow base for a subtle shimmer.
Lips: Dab a bit of highlighter on the center of your lips after applying lipstick to create the illusion of fuller lips. This trick works especially well with glossy or satin-finish lipsticks.
Body: Mix a small amount of cream highlighter with your body lotion and apply it to your shoulders, collarbones, and legs for an all-over glow. This is perfect for special occasions or when you want to add a touch of radiance to your skin.

12.2. Highlighter for Different Face Shapes

Tailoring Application Techniques to Enhance Features:

Round Face: Apply highlighter along the tops of your cheekbones, down the bridge of your nose, and on your chin to create the illusion of length and definition.
Oval Face: Focus on the high points of your face, such as the cheekbones, brow bones, and the bridge of your nose. This will enhance your natural bone structure.
Square Face: Highlight the center of your forehead, the tops of your cheekbones, and the center of your chin to soften the angles of your face.
Heart-Shaped Face: Apply highlighter to the tops of your cheekbones, the center of your forehead, and the tip of your chin to balance your features.

12.3. Seasonal Highlighter Tips

Adjusting Your Highlighter Routine for Different Seasons:

Spring: Opt for a light, fresh glow with a cream highlighter in soft, pastel shades like pink or peach. This complements the natural, dewy look of spring makeup.
Summer: Go for a more intense, sun-kissed glow with a golden or bronze highlighter. Apply it to the high points of your face and body for a radiant, beach-ready look.
Fall: Choose a highlighter with warm undertones like gold or copper to complement the rich, earthy tones of fall makeup. Apply it to your cheekbones and brow bones for a subtle, cozy glow.
Winter: Use a highlighter with cool undertones like silver or pearl to create a frosty, luminous look. Focus on the tops of your cheekbones and the inner corners of your eyes to brighten your complexion during the darker months.

Chapter 13. Highlighter Ingredients to Avoid

13.1. Harmful Ingredients in Highlighters

Common Harmful Chemicals and Their Effects:

Parabens: These are preservatives used to extend the shelf life of cosmetics. However, they can disrupt hormone function and have been linked to breast cancer. Look for highlighters labeled “paraben-free” to avoid this risk.
Phthalates: Often used to make products more pliable, phthalates can interfere with hormone function and have been associated with reproductive issues. They are commonly found in fragrances, so opt for fragrance-free highlighters.
Talc: While talc is a common ingredient in many cosmetics, it can be contaminated with asbestos, a known carcinogen. Choose highlighters that are labeled “talc-free” to minimize this risk.
Synthetic Fragrances: These can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions. They often contain hidden chemicals that can be harmful to your health. Look for products that use natural fragrances or are fragrance-free.
BHA and BHT: These are synthetic antioxidants used as preservatives. They can cause skin irritation and have been linked to cancer in animal studies. Avoid highlighters containing these ingredients.

13.2. Safe Alternatives

Natural and Safe Ingredients to Look For:

Mica: A natural mineral that provides shimmer and is safe for most skin types. It is a common alternative to synthetic glitter.
Shea Butter: A natural moisturizer that helps to keep the skin hydrated and smooth. It is often used in cream highlighters for its nourishing properties.
Coconut Oil: Known for its moisturizing and antibacterial properties, coconut oil is a safe and effective ingredient in highlighters.
Beeswax: Used as a natural binding agent, beeswax helps to give cream highlighters their smooth texture and ensures they stay in place on the skin.
Vitamin E: An antioxidant that helps to protect the skin from damage and keep it healthy. It is often included in highlighters for its skin-conditioning benefits.

Chapter 14. DIY Cream Highlighters

14.1. Making Your Own Highlighter

Simple Recipes and Ingredients: Creating your own cream highlighter at home is a fun and cost-effective way to customize your makeup. Here are some simple recipes and ingredients you can use:

Basic DIY Cream Highlighter Recipe:

Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon of shea butter
- 1 teaspoon of jojoba oil
- 1 teaspoon of beeswax
- 1-2 teaspoons of mica powder (choose your preferred shade)
- 1/2 teaspoon of cornstarch (optional, for a matte finish)

Instructions:

Melt the Base: Combine the shea butter, jojoba oil, and beeswax in a small bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals until melted, stirring in between.
Add Mica Powder: Stir in the mica powder until you reach your desired shade. You can mix different colors to create a custom shade.
Optional Cornstarch: If you prefer a matte finish, add the cornstarch and stir well.
Cool and Set: Pour the mixture into a small tin or container and let it cool for 2-3 hours until solidified ¹.

14.2. Customizing Your Highlighter

Adjusting Shades and Finishes to Suit Your Needs:

Shades: Experiment with different mica powders to find the perfect shade for your skin tone. For a natural glow, use pearl or champagne shades. For a more dramatic look, try gold or bronze shades.
Finishes: Adjust the finish by adding more or less cornstarch. For a dewy finish, skip the cornstarch. For a matte finish, add a bit more.
Additional Ingredients: You can also add a few drops of essential oils for a pleasant scent or additional skincare benefits. Lavender oil can be soothing, while tea tree oil has antibacterial properties ².

Storage Tips:

Store your DIY cream highlighter in a cool, dry place to maintain its consistency.
Use a clean spatula or brush to apply the highlighter to avoid contamination ¹.

Chapter 15. Highlighter for Mature Skin

15.1. Choosing the Right Highlighter

Best Types and Shades for Mature Skin:

Types: For mature skin, cream and liquid highlighters are generally the best options. They blend seamlessly into the skin and provide a natural, dewy finish without settling into fine lines or wrinkles. Powder highlighters can sometimes accentuate texture and dryness, so they are less recommended ¹.
Shades: Choose shades that complement your skin tone. For fair skin, opt for pinky-pearly shades. Medium to olive skin tones look great with champagne or soft peach highlighters. Deeper skin tones can benefit from bronze or copper shades ².

Recommended Products:

Josie Maran Argan Enlightenment Illuminizer: This liquid highlighter is enriched with argan oil, providing a radiant glow while nourishing the skin. It is suitable for all skin types and tones ³.
Benefit Cosmetics Watt’s Up! Cream Highlighter: This cream-to-powder highlighter offers a soft-focus, luminous finish that is perfect for mature skin. It is easy to apply and blend, making it a favorite among users ³.

15.2. Application Tips

Techniques to Enhance Mature Skin Without Emphasizing Wrinkles:

Prep Your Skin: Start with a well-moisturized face. Use a hydrating primer to create a smooth base for your makeup ¹.
Apply Before Foundation: For a more natural look, apply your highlighter before your foundation. This technique helps to diffuse the highlighter and avoid any harsh lines ¹.
Use a Light Hand: Apply a small amount of highlighter to the high points of your face, such as the cheekbones, brow bones, and the bridge of your nose. Use a tapping motion to blend the product into your skin ⁴.
Avoid Shimmery Formulas: Opt for highlighters with a subtle sheen rather than chunky glitter. Light-reflecting balms and creams provide a soft glow without emphasizing texture ¹.
Focus on Key Areas: Highlight the areas where light naturally hits your face. Avoid applying highlighter to areas with fine lines or wrinkles, as this can draw attention to them ⁴.

Chapter 16. Highlighter and Skincare

16.1. Prepping Your Skin for Highlighter

Skincare Steps to Ensure a Smooth Application:

Cleanse: Start with a gentle cleanser to remove any dirt, oil, or makeup residue from your skin. This creates a clean canvas for your makeup.
Exfoliate: Use a mild exfoliant to slough off dead skin cells and smooth the skin’s surface. This helps to prevent the highlighter from emphasizing any texture or dry patches.
Moisturize: Apply a hydrating moisturizer to keep your skin plump and smooth. Well-moisturized skin allows the highlighter to blend seamlessly and provides a natural, dewy finish.
Prime: Use a primer to create a smooth base for your makeup. Choose a hydrating primer if you have dry skin or a mattifying primer if you have oily skin. This step helps to extend the wear of your highlighter and other makeup products ⁴.

16.2. Highlighter-Friendly Skincare Products

Skincare Products That Complement Highlighter Use:

Hydrating Serums: Look for serums with hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or squalane. These ingredients help to keep your skin hydrated and plump, providing a smooth base for your highlighter. Examples include The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 and Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Serum ¹.
Illuminating Primers: Primers with light-reflecting particles can enhance the glow of your highlighter. They provide a subtle radiance that shines through your foundation. Examples include Becca Backlight Priming Filter and L’Oréal Paris Magic Lumi Light Infusing Primer ⁵.
Moisturizers with SPF: Protect your skin from sun damage while keeping it hydrated. Choose a moisturizer with SPF to wear under your makeup. Examples include CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion with SPF 30 and La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer UV ⁶.

Tips for Combining Skincare and Highlighter:

Layering: Apply your skincare products first and allow them to fully absorb before applying your makeup. This ensures that your skin is well-prepped and that the highlighter blends smoothly.
Avoid Overloading: Use lightweight, non-greasy skincare products to avoid making your skin look too shiny or oily. This helps to maintain a balanced, natural glow.
Focus on Hydration: Keeping your skin hydrated is key to achieving a radiant look. Drink plenty of water and use hydrating skincare products to maintain your skin’s moisture levels ⁴.