![Pat McGrath Labs highlighter](https://static.independent.co.uk/2022/10/03/12/Pat%20McGrath%20labs%20highlighter.png)
The Independent's journalism is supported by our readers. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn commission. Why trust us?
These illuminating formulas are perfect for catching the light on your cheekbones
Highlighter is a make-up bag buy that will add shimmering radiance when applied to parts of the face (and other areas of the body) that catch the light – think temples, brow bones, cupid’s bow, cheekbones and décolletage – adding a healthy-looking finish and iridescent glow to skin.
Depending on your preference, there are creams, liquids, powders and sticks to choose between, creating both natural effects and more overt sparkly looks. Typically, though, they have a lightweight texture suitable for dotting onto key areas, and can be mixed in with foundation or tinted moisturiser to maximise an all-over glow. They work well when paired with blusher, too.
Mimicking natural light, highlighters serve up a flattering softness that has universal appeal, whether opting for full-on strobing or a simple sweep of pearlescent sheen. Plus, dewiness – which appears thanks to a hydrating slick of glowing balm or cream – gets our vote, too.
Whether you favour bold metallics, understated luminosity, pink hues or gold glitter, there’s a highlighting option for everyone. So, with that in mind, we’ve been researching the best around, from luxury picks to affordable purchases.
We sampled a selection of highlighters for several weeks, testing cream, stick, liquid, and powder versions. We looked at the highlighting effect created, packaging and price point, plus how wearable each formula was. Those making the list had to bring a shimmery glow and add illumination seen when the light shone on our skin. These are the ones that really sparkled.
On the contrary, using a highlighter actually adds a youthful sheen to the face. While mature skin can often appear dry and flat, applying a highlighter will give it more depth and allow the skin to look healthier.
That said, if you have mature skin, steer clear of highlighters containing glitter or sparkle, as this can draw attention to fine lines. You should also avoid applying thick highlighting textures in the lines around your eyes, so the product doesn’t clog them.
The performance of your highlighter also depends on your pre-make-up skin prep. Make sure your skin is cleansed, toned and moisturised before applying your make-up, so your highlighter stays put and doesn’t slide off or, equally, dry up.
The purpose of a highlighter is to keep the skin looking fresh and youthful, so not doing a proper skincare routine before you apply it would be counteractive. If you have mature skin, choose cream- or liquid-textured highlighters, instead of powders, to keep dry skin supple and glowy.
Highlighter should be applied to the high points of your face, so you can create the illusion of a prominent bone structure. This means along the tops of your cheekbones, on your brow bones, down the bridge of the nose and on your cupid’s bow. The light will bounce off wherever you put it, so try not to overdo it – subtlety is key.
However, if you prefer a little more radiance, dab some in the upper-centre of your eyelids, in the inner corner of your eyes and even near your temples on the sides of your forehead, but not in the middle, as that area is naturally more oily and you don’t want to add more shine to an already oily T-zone.
Highlighters are applied to add light to your face and also to enhance your features, so choose one that is one or two hues lighter than your natural skin tone. The idea is for it to create a natural, seamless glimmer of light on your skin, rather than a harsh, noticeable strip.
Fair skin tones should opt for pearlescent or champagne shades, medium/neutral skin tones suit iridescent, pink or golden tones and dark skin tones look best in rose gold or bronze highlighters. When you’re more tanned during the summer, you can go a little bit darker.
Our best overall buy is Pat McGrath Labs’ divine glow highlighter for its silky soft buildable finish, which radiates luminosity. Meanwhile, for an affordable glittery option, we’d recommend Lottie London’s diamond bounce illuminating powder highlighter. Finally, if you’re seeking a stick highlighter, Nars the multiple is a chunky shape that glides onto skin, and the luminous finish stays put.
For more must-have complexion products, read our review of the best bronzers