The Best Liquid Highlighters, According to Our Glow-Obsessed Editor
June 05, 2020
I am a die-hard liquid highlighter stan (read also: obsessed, fanatic, I would pretty much bathe in it if I could). Whether I’m wearing a no-makeup makeup look or doing a full glam, I can always count on my liquid highlighter to give me that gorgeous goddess glow. As someone who committed to the liquid highlighter life years ago and never looked back, I’ve tested my fair share of products on the market. So if you share the same enthusiasm about these shimmery liquid formulas or simply want to try something different than your traditional powder highlighter (it’s the perfect switch for summertime, I promise), check out some of my faves ahead.
NYX Professional Makeup California Beamin’ Face and Body Liquid Highlighter
This shimmery, intensely-pigmented formula with reflective pearls can give you a beautifully radiant glow from head to toe. Infused with avocado, rosehip, grapeseed and jojoba oil, the formula applies like a dream and isn’t the least bit sticky.
Urban Decay Moondust Glitter Liquid Face and Body Illiminizer
The lightweight texture of this face and body illuminizer makes it a perfect choice for summer. But we’re sure that the duochrome glitter and pearlescent pigments will have you loving this formula all year round. Apply it on the tops of your cheekbones, décolleté and anywhere else you want to experience a sparkling glow.
Maybelline New York Master Strobing Liquid Illuminating Highlighter
If you’re a highlight enthusiast, you’re probably familiar with strobing. If not, it’s basically just a makeup technique where you apply a lot of highlight. Liquid highlighters are great for this technique because they offer a more natural-looking finish than powders which can appear cakey and, well, powdery after one too many layers. This Strobing Liquid Highlighter allows you to get that intense illumination for only $4.99.
Giorgio Armani Iconic Fluid Sheer Ultra-Light Glowing Fluid
Inspired by silky, rich organza, this weightless liquid highlighter can be worn alone or mixed with your foundation for a sheer boost of radiance.
Charlotte Tilbury Beauty Light Wand
To get that flawless, lit-from-within complexion, this Beauty Light Wand is one of my all-time favorites. The liquid pigment has a beautiful, soft finish with light-reflecting pigments that make your complexion look healthy, happy and naturally radiant. It also comes with a cushion applicator that dispenses the product evenly and directly onto your face for a seamless application.
Ilia Liquid Light Serum Highlighter
Not only does this liquid highlighter give you a natural dewy finish, but it also does good things for your skin. It’s a gel-based anti-pollution serum-meets-highlighter that’s made with hydrolyzed algae to help control excess oil, marine actives to help firm and protect your skin from free radicals, and mastic, which helps refine skin texture for a smooth and even appearance.
Cover FX Custom Enhancer Drops
Available in seven illuminating shades, these ultra-concentrated drops can be used to create a buildable highlight on their own or mixed in with your foundation. From soft, pearlescent pinks and golden bronzes to a trippy holographic shade that looks different depending on the lighting, you’re sure to find a hue that you’ll fall in love with.
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