Highlighter

Highlighter catches the light on your cheekbones, brow bone, and nose bridge — it’s the product that makes skin look alive and dimensional. Shop Mimic Makeup’s highlighter collection with free worldwide shipping on every order.

Liquid vs. Powder Highlighter: The Right Pick for Your Routine

Liquid highlighter blends into foundation and skin for a wet, dewy glow that looks like you’re lit from within. It’s the most natural-looking format and the easiest to apply — a few drops mixed into foundation or tapped onto cheekbones with your fingers. The Rare Beauty Positive Light Liquid Luminizer is a fan favorite because it layers beautifully over or under makeup without disturbing what’s underneath.

Powder highlighter is more intense and longer-lasting. It sits on top of the skin with visible shimmer particles that catch light dramatically — ideal for evening looks and photography. The Rare Beauty Positive Light Silky Touch Highlighter has the intensity of a powder but applies with the smoothness of a cream, thanks to finely milled pigments that don’t emphasize texture or pores. If you have oily skin, powder highlighter is the safer bet — liquid formulas can shift around as your skin produces oil throughout the day.

Where to Apply Highlighter (and Where to Skip It)

Less is more with highlighter. The three spots that make the biggest impact: the tops of your cheekbones, the inner corner of your eyes, and your cupid’s bow. These are the natural high points of the face that catch light anyway — highlighter just amplifies the effect. Skip the tip of your nose unless you want to draw attention to it, and avoid applying highlighter over textured skin or active breakouts — the shimmer particles will highlight every bump and pore you’d rather conceal.

For a subtle everyday glow, mix a drop of liquid luminizer into your foundation or moisturizer. This dilutes the shimmer and creates an all-over radiance that reads as “great skin” rather than “wearing highlighter.” For more glow options, check our Liquid Highlighter and Contour & Highlight sections.

Highlighter FAQ

Can highlighter be used as eyeshadow?

Yes — especially powder highlighter on the center of the lid and inner corner. It creates a bright, open-eyed effect. Liquid highlighter on the lids works for a dewy, editorial look but creases faster than powder. Set it with a matching powder shadow for longer wear. Browse our Eyeshadow section for complementary shades.