A Beginner’s Guide to Highlighters

If you're someone who is looking for a way to add a little bit of cool-girl sparkle, or maybe hoping that your makeup gives you that show stopping look, highlighters are the one for you. Highlighters are an important part of your makeup routine. They can be used on your face, eyes, and lips to create a variety of looks! They have brightening agents that draw attention, bring out the narrow areas of your face and give it a polished look. Highlighters make you look younger and add a certain freshness to your face. 

However, the highlighter makeup can turn out quite messy if you don’t know how to use the highlighter accurately. Worst-case scenario- you may end up with just a/ ton of glitter smeared on your face. 

Different types of highlighter 

It’s necessary that you choose the correct type of highlighter before you start with your makeup. You should pick up a highlighter based on your proficiency and comfort level. There are mainly three types of highlighter - powder, cream and liquid. 

• Cream Highlighters give your face a natural glow, as they quickly melt onto your skin. They are perfect for those with dry skin or aged skin.
• If you’re new to the world of makeup, Powder highlighters are the one for you. They come compressed in a powder pan and are the most basic tool in every makeup kit. The powder settles on the top of your cheekbones and draws focus to them.
• Another savior for all the makeup newbies is the stick highlighter. They are super easy to use and bring out the high points on your face.
• One needs some level of proficiency when it comes to applying Liquid Highlighters. When applied correctly, they can emphasise and make your features pop.

How to use highlighter on the face

Usually, highlighters are used in the last step of the makeup. They’re a kind of final touch up to your overall look. Applying a highlighter goes beyond just your cheekbones. Follow the steps below to know how to apply a highlighter. 
 

• The first step is to select the right kind of highlighter for yourself. If you are someone who has just started with makeup, powder or stick highlighters are generally recommended. Cream or liquid highlights are tricky to use. So,  if you are adept at using such highlighters, only then opt for them.
• Another important step before you Always choose a shade that complements your skin type and matches your tone.
• One should use an angled fluffy fan brush while using powder highlighters whereas a sponge is the best choice when it comes to using liquids.
• After having applied your foundation, concealer, and the basic makeup, select a highlighter shade of your choice. Start with your cheekbones. Simply sweep it diagonally across the cheekbones and under your temples.
• The nose bridge is the highest point on your face. It receives ample light, and hence, you should highlight this part. Start by contouring your nose. This helps to make your nose appear as though it’s long and narrower.
• To add more dimension to your face, apply the highlighter in the center of your forehead and near the temple area.
• You may also add some highlighter under your eyes and the inner corner of your eyes using a small eyeshadow brush. This will help to brighten the area and give it more emphasis.
• The cupid’s bow and the brow bone are the areas that also catch the light. Applying highlights here will give them a lifted appearance.
• Finally, apply some highlighter on the center of the chin to fully accentuate the shape.

 Now that you how to apply highlighters, there a few things you need to know on what things to avoid in highlighter makeup - 

• Always choose a highlighter that suits your skin type. Avoid using a shade that doesn’t suit your skin type.
• Avoid applying too much highlighter. Keep it simple and natural.
• Get your base correct - apply a primer first and only then go for the highlighter.

There are a lot of different reasons why you might be interested in adding a highlighter to your beauty routine. Whatever the reason for wanting to get on board with this trend, Purplle is one place where you can always find the best range of highlighter and other beauty products.