How to Use Highlighter No Matter What Form It Comes In or How Skilled You Are

You've probably seen highlighters everywhere you go, whether you were in a drugstore or online. Highlighting, a technique used by professional makeup artists for decades, has become a common everyday tool. Highlighting adds dimension to your face (more below), and can make foundation look more natural, highlight your cheeks, or create a look of its own.

There are so many choices on the market and hundreds more coming out every month, it can be overwhelming to know how to use highlighter. This guide will help you determine which highlighter is right for you and how to use it. Get your fingers and brushes ready...this is highlighter 101!

What is Highlighting?

Highlighting is, in essence, the opposite of contouring. To create the illusion of contouring, you contour with a darker color than your skin to make certain features appear larger (e.g. your temples, jawline and cheekbones). This creates a smooth effect. To catch light and make features stand out, highlighter uses a lighter shade than your skin to create a chiseled effect. You can achieve the same effect with light-reflecting products, also known as illuminators.

Which is the best place to apply highlighter?

You want natural-looking highlights that aren't too obvious. The areas where light hits naturally are your high points. These include your cheekbones, brow bones, Cupid's bow (the little dip at the top of your top lip), and the bridge of your nose. You can also add a little bit to the tip of your nose. After you have the basics down, it's time to get creative and take things to the next level. Highlighters can be used anywhere you want them to. A low-cut top is a good choice.

Which type of highlighter should I use?

Highlighters come in endless formulas, just like foundation, blush, eyeshadow and blush. There are many options available, from subtle, glossy highlighters to opalescent pearls and holographic. These are only a few of the options. There are many shades of color.