Achieving a radiant, luminous complexion is a top priority for makeup enthusiasts and skincare aficionados alike, making the quest for the best cream face highlighters more important than ever. These versatile products not only enhance your natural glow but also provide a dewy finish that complements any look, from casual day outings to glamorous evening events. With an array of options available on the market, choosing the right highlighter can seem overwhelming, but fear not! Our comprehensive reviews and buying guide will help you navigate through the sea of choices and find the perfect match for your skin tone and style preferences.
In this article, we will delve into the standout cream highlighters that are garnering rave reviews from beauty lovers everywhere. From soft, subtle shimmer to bold, blinding highlights, we’ll cover everything you need to know about formulation, application techniques, and the best shades for every skin type. Whether you’re a makeup novice or a seasoned pro, our curated list will not only save you time but also elevate your beauty game, ensuring you shine bright with confidence and ease.
Before we get to our review of the best cream face highlighters, let’s browse through some relevant products on Amazon:
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Overview of Cream Face Highlighters
Cream face highlighters are versatile cosmetic products designed to enhance the natural luminosity of the skin. Unlike their powder counterparts, cream highlighters have a silky texture that blends effortlessly into the skin, providing a more natural finish. They are often favored for their ability to create a dewy, radiant look that mimics the skin’s natural sheen, making them a popular choice among makeup artists and beauty enthusiasts alike.
These highlighters come in various formulations, including stick, tube, and pot formats, allowing users to choose a texture that best suits their application preferences. Cream highlighters can be applied with fingers, brushes, or sponges, giving artists the flexibility to achieve the desired intensity and appearance. Additionally, many formulas offer buildable coverage, enabling users to layer the product for a more pronounced effect or keep it subtle for a fresh-faced look.
One of the standout advantages of cream face highlighters is their ability to adhere to the skin without settling into fine lines or pores, making them particularly suitable for individuals with dry or mature skin types. Furthermore, they can often be mixed with foundation or moisturizer for an all-over glow or applied strategically to the high points of the face, such as the cheekbones, brow bones, and the bridge of the nose.
As the beauty industry continues to evolve, both high-end and drugstore brands are introducing innovative cream highlighters that cater to a wide range of skin tones and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a soft glow or a bold highlight, exploring the best cream face highlighters can elevate your makeup routine, adding depth and radiance to your overall look.
Top 5 Best Cream Face Highlighters
1. Glossier Haloscope Face Highlighter
Glossier Haloscope Face Highlighter is a beloved favorite for many makeup enthusiasts. Its unique dual-phase formula features a solid balm core infused with nourishing oils and a sheer, illuminating outer layer that provides a dewy glow without the metallic finish. Available in multiple shades, this highlighter adapts beautifully to various skin tones, enhancing your natural radiance effortlessly. The easy-to-apply stick format allows for on-the-go touch-ups, making it an ideal companion for busy days.
The product glides smoothly onto the skin, blending seamlessly into makeup as well as bare skin. Haloscope’s hydrating properties make it perfect for those with dry or combination skin types, as it avoids that chalky or powdery effect often seen with traditional highlighters. Whether you’re aiming for a subtle glow or a more intense shine, this highlighter allows for buildable coverage, ensuring you get the look just right for any occasion.
2. Rare Beauty Positive Light Liquid Luminizer
Rare Beauty’s Positive Light Liquid Luminizer delivers a stunning, lightweight glow that can elevate any makeup look. This liquid highlighter is designed with a unique formula that gives a luminous finish without feeling heavy or greasy on the skin. Available in several shades, it can cater to various skin tones and preferences, making it a versatile addition to your beauty toolkit. The easy-to-use dropper applicator allows for precise application, and a little goes a long way.
The blendable texture of this luminizer makes it great for layering; you can mix it with foundation for an all-over glow or apply it directly to high points of your face for a more concentrated shine. Reviewers rave about how it reflects light beautifully while still appearing natural, perfect for an everyday makeup look or special occasions. Its long-lasting formula ensures your glow lasts throughout the day, enhancing your beauty in every way.
3. Charlotte Tilbury Beauty Light Wand
Charlotte Tilbury’s Beauty Light Wand is an incredibly popular choice among makeup lovers who seek an ethereal glow. This cream highlighter comes in a convenient sponge-tip applicator, allowing for effortless application and blending. The innovative formula provides an intense, liquid shimmer that captures and reflects light with ease. Available in various shades that suit different skin tones, the Beauty Light Wand offers versatility for both subtle brightness and striking luminosity.
One of the standout features of this highlighter is its ability to deliver a lit-from-within effect while remaining lightweight on the skin. Users appreciate its long-wearing formula that doesn’t settle into fine lines or pores, making it suitable for everyone, regardless of age. This highlighter can be used alone or layered over foundation, and it dries down beautifully, leaving behind a radiant, non-sticky finish. Whether you’re headed to a casual brunch or a glamorous evening event, this product ensures you shine in all the right places.
4. RMS Beauty Living Luminizer
RMS Beauty Living Luminizer is a cult favorite among those who prefer clean and natural beauty products. This cream highlighter is formulated with organic ingredients, providing a luminous finish that is free from harmful chemicals. Its buttery, blendable texture makes it easy to work with, delivering a beautiful dewy sheen that enhances your complexion without looking overly sparkly. This highlighter is available in a universal shade that complements various skin tones, making it a must-have in any makeup collection.
The lightweight nature of Living Luminizer allows it to melt beautifully into the skin, creating a natural, healthy glow that feels almost weightless. It’s especially beneficial for those with dry skin, as it hydrates while adding radiance. Users love its versatility—whether applied to the cheekbones, brow bones, or even the inner corners of the eyes, this product helps you achieve that coveted “just-got-back-from-vacation” look any time of year.
5. Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector Liquid Highlighter
Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector Liquid Highlighter is known for its stunning liquid formula that provides intense luminosity and long-lasting wear. This product comes in a variety of gorgeous shades designed to illuminate all skin tones. The lightweight texture makes it easy to blend, whether applied with the fingers, a makeup sponge, or a brush. This highlighter can be used on its own or mixed into foundation for a more radiant finish, allowing for customizable glow that feels unique to each user.
What sets Becca apart is its buildable coverage; you can achieve everything from a soft sheen to a striking highlight, making it perfect for any occasion. Users love how this product captures and reflects light flawlessly, leaving you with a stunning glow that looks natural rather than overdone. Whether you’re preparing for a night out or just want to add a touch of light to your everyday look, the Shimmering Skin Perfector delivers unparalleled radiance that is sure to impress.
Why Do People Need to Buy Cream Face Highlighters
Cream face highlighters have gained significant popularity in the beauty industry for their ability to create a radiant, dewy complexion. Unlike powder highlighters, which can sometimes accentuate texture or dryness, cream formulas blend seamlessly into the skin, providing a more natural finish. This is especially beneficial for individuals with dry or combination skin types, as cream products hydrate and nourish the skin while adding a luminous glow. The versatility of cream highlighters makes them suitable for various occasions, from a casual day out to a glamorous evening event.
One of the key advantages of using cream highlighters is their buildable nature. Users can start with a subtle application for an everyday look and layer the product for more intensity when desired. This flexibility allows beauty enthusiasts to customize their glow according to their mood or the occasion. Moreover, cream highlighters can be applied not only to the cheekbones but also to the brow bones, bridge of the nose, and cupid’s bow, enhancing the overall facial structure and adding dimension to the face.
Another important factor driving people to buy cream face highlighters is their ease of application. Many formulations come with user-friendly packaging, such as tubes or sticks, making them accessible for both makeup beginners and seasoned professionals. They can be applied with fingers, makeup sponges, or brushes, allowing for experimentation with different techniques. The fluid texture glides on smoothly, ensuring an even application without the risk of looking patchy. This user-friendliness is appealing in a fast-paced world where quick and easy makeup routines are preferred.
Finally, cream highlighters often contain skin-loving ingredients like vitamins and antioxidants, which can be beneficial for the skin’s health. Many brands prioritize creating products that not only enhance beauty but also nourish the skin, further incentivizing the purchase of the best cream face highlighters. The combination of aesthetic enhancement and skincare benefits makes these products a must-have for anyone looking to achieve a glowing complexion while taking care of their skin.
Features to Look for in Cream Face Highlighters
When choosing a cream face highlighter, several key features can significantly impact your makeup experience and results. Texture is one of the most critical aspects to consider. Some cream highlighters have a velvety feel, which allows for smooth application, while others may be more creamy or thick, offering a more intense finish. Depending on your skin type and personal preferences, selecting a texture that melts into your skin can create a more natural glow.
Pigmentation is another essential factor. Highlighters can vary from sheer washes of color to intensely pigmented products. If you prefer a subtle, lit-from-within glow, you may choose a lighter, more natural-toned highlighter. On the other hand, for striking evening looks, consider highlighters that deliver bold shimmer in a single swipe. Regardless, it’s important to test the pigment on your skin to see how it translates to your complexion.
Finish is also a crucial consideration. Highlighters can come in matte, satin, or shimmering finishes, each serving a different purpose. A satin finish may work well for everyday wear, providing a soft glow, while a shimmery highlighter can add the drama for special occasions. Choosing the right finish will depend on the look you’re aiming to achieve and the setting in which you plan to wear your makeup.
Application Techniques for Cream Highlighters
Applying cream face highlighters can be an art form that, when done correctly, enhances your facial features beautifully. To achieve a seamless glow, start with clean, moisturized skin. This ensures that the highlighter glides on smoothly and blends effortlessly without clinging to dry patches. Using a makeup sponge, your fingertips, or a flat brush can make a significant difference in the finish of your highlighter application.
When applying a cream highlighter, less is often more. Start with a small amount on the back of your hand and pick up a bit with your sponge or fingers. Focus on the higher points of your face where light naturally hits. Common areas to highlight include the cheekbones, brow bone, bridge of the nose, and the Cupid’s bow. A light tapping motion works best to blend the product into the skin for a naturally radiant look.
For those who prefer a more intense highlight, layering is key. After a first application, allow the product to dry slightly before adding more. This technique helps to build the desired level of shine without it looking overdone. Alternatively, for a dewy finish, consider mixing a bit of highlighter with your foundation or tinted moisturizer for an all-over radiant glow.
How to Choose the Right Shade for Your Skin Tone
Selecting the right shade of cream face highlighter can dramatically affect the overall appearance of your makeup. Highlighters come in a variety of tones, including champagne, gold, silver, and peach. Understanding your skin tone—whether it’s warm, cool, or neutral—is crucial in determining which highlighter shades will complement your complexion best.
For those with warm undertones, gold and peach shades are often flattering, as they enhance the natural warmth of the skin. Champagne tones can also work well, providing a versatile option that suits many warm skin tones. On the other hand, individuals with cool undertones may find that silver and pink highlighters bring out their complexion’s natural luminosity. A light lavender or rose gold can also work beautifully for a unique, luminous finish.
If you have a neutral undertone, you have the flexibility to play with both cool and warm shades. Testing different highlighters under natural light can provide insight into how they interact with your skin tone. Ultimately, having a few different highlighter shades on hand can help you adjust your look for various occasions and seasons, ensuring your glow remains on point year-round.
Best Practices for Using Cream Highlighters on Different Skin Types
Different skin types may require specific techniques and products when it comes to applying cream highlighters. For instance, those with oily skin should use a lightweight, non-greasy formula to avoid excess shine. Opting for a matte or satin finish helps to maintain a balanced look, while a dewy highlighter may be reserved for areas that you want to accentuate without overwhelming your natural oiliness.
For dry or combination skin types, creamy highlighters generally work wonders as they hydrate while adding luminosity. However, it’s important to prepare the skin adequately. Start with a rich moisturizer or primer to ensure the highlighter adheres well and doesn’t accentuate texture or dryness. A dewy or sheer highlighter can offer a fresh glow, bringing life back to dull or parched skin.
Sensitive skin types should be cautious and look for highlighters formulated with soothing ingredients. Testing products on a small area before full application can help in identifying any potential reactions. Additionally, using a light hand during application and focusing on lighter shades can create a gentle glow that enhances rather than overwhelms sensitive skin, ensuring you enjoy the beauty of highlighters without irritation.
Buying Guide for the Best Cream Face Highlighters
When it comes to enhancing your natural glow, cream face highlighters are a go-to choice for many makeup enthusiasts. They provide a dewy finish that can be easily blended into the skin, giving you a radiant look that powder highlighters may not achieve. With a myriad of options available on the market, finding the best cream face highlighters suited to your skin tone and preferences can be overwhelming. This guide covers the essential factors to consider when making your selection.
1. Skin Type
Your skin type plays a crucial role in determining which cream face highlighter will work best for you. If you have oily skin, look for formulations specifically designed to control shine while providing a luminous finish. These highlighters often contain mattifying agents that help balance oil production and ensure that your makeup lasts throughout the day. On the other hand, individuals with dry or combination skin may benefit from cream highlighters that provide added hydration and a dewy finish.
It’s also vital to consider the ingredients in the highlighter. Highlighters infused with nourishing ingredients like hyaluronic acid or vitamins can offer added skin benefits while delivering that sought-after glow. Always check the product labels to find highlighters that cater to your unique skin needs.
2. Shade Selection
Choosing the right shade of a cream face highlighter is essential to achieving a natural-looking glow. Typically, highlighters come in a variety of shades ranging from champagne and gold to rose and pearl. It’s important to find a shade that complements your undertone. For those with warm undertones, shades like gold or bronze can enhance your warmth without looking unnatural. Conversely, cool undertones may find that pink or silver highlighters work better for their complexion.
Additionally, consider the occasion when selecting a highlighter shade. Lighter shades can be ideal for everyday wear, while richer, more pigmented shades may be better suited for evening events or special occasions. Test the colors on your skin to see how they appear in different lighting conditions before making a final choice.
3. Finish and Texture
The finish and texture of a cream highlighter can significantly affect the overall look it achieves. Some highlighters have a shiny, metallic finish, while others offer a subtle sheen that is more understated. If you’re looking for a more natural glow, go for cream face highlighters with a satin or creamy finish. These options blend seamlessly into the skin and provide a lit-from-within effect.
Moreover, the texture of the highlighter can influence application methods and longevity. Creamy highlighters are typically easy to blend with fingers or makeup sponges, while thicker formulations may require more effort to work into the skin. Consider your preferred application method and how much time you have when selecting the right texture for your needs.
4. Pigmentation
The level of pigmentation in a cream face highlighter can determine how much glow you’ll achieve with one application. Some highlighters are more pigmented than others, so it’s essential to assess how intense you want your highlight to be. If you’re a beginner or prefer a more subtle look, opt for less pigmented products that you can build up gradually.
On the other hand, experienced makeup users may want highlighters with high pigmentation for a striking glow. Keep in mind that more pigmented formulas often require careful blending to avoid harsh lines and create a seamless transition on your skin. Testing the product’s pigmentation on your skin before purchasing can help guide your decision.
5. Longevity and Wear Time
When investing in the best cream face highlighters, it’s essential to consider their longevity. A highlighter that fades quickly can leave you feeling disappointed after just a few hours. Look for products that are long-wearing and specifically labeled as resistant to sweat and humidity if you plan to wear makeup for extended periods.
Reviews can provide insights into the wear time of different highlighters. Users often share their experiences regarding how long a product lasts and if it separates or fades over time. Selecting a cream highlighter that is known for its durability will ensure that your glow lasts throughout the day or night without frequent touch-ups.
6. Application Method
How you apply your cream highlighter can significantly impact the final result. Some highlighters are designed to be applied with fingers, while others may come with applicators or can be used with brushes and sponges. Determine your preferred application method before making a purchase, as this will affect your makeup routine.
Different applicators can also yield varied results. For instance, using a damp sponge may create a more airbrushed appearance, while fingers may deposit product more intensely. If you like versatility, consider purchasing cream highlighters that can be applied in different ways to suit your desired look.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a cream face highlighter?
A cream face highlighter is a makeup product that is designed to enhance the skin’s natural radiance by reflecting light. Unlike powder highlighters, cream formulations are typically more hydrating and blend seamlessly into the skin, giving a dewy glow. They can be used on various areas of the face, such as the cheekbones, brow bones, and even on the lips for an extra shine.
These highlighters often come in tubes, pots, or sticks, making them easy to apply with fingers, brushes, or sponges. Their creamy texture allows for buildable coverage, which can be adjusted based on the desired intensity. This versatility makes cream highlighters a popular choice for both everyday wear and special occasions.
How do I choose the right shade of cream highlighter?
Choosing the right shade of cream highlighter largely depends on your skin tone and the look you want to achieve. For lighter skin tones, shades with champagne, pearl, or icy undertones tend to work best. Medium skin tones often benefit from warm golds and soft peaches, while deeper skin tones can opt for bronze, copper, or darker gold shades that complement their richness.
It’s also important to consider the finish you prefer. For a natural look, go for highlighters with subtle shimmer, while those looking for more drama might choose a product with intense shimmer or metallic finishes. Testing out different shades on your skin before purchasing will help ensure that you find the perfect match for your complexion.
Can cream highlighters be used on all skin types?
Yes, cream highlighters can be suitable for all skin types, but how they perform may vary. For those with dry skin, cream highlighters can provide added hydration and a luminous finish that helps to address any dullness. However, it’s essential to choose a highlighter that doesn’t cling to dry patches, so look for hydrating formulas that contain ingredients like glycerin or jojoba oil.
For oily or combination skin types, it’s beneficial to set the highlighter with a translucent powder to prevent it from moving throughout the day. Additionally, those with oily skin might want to opt for highlighters with a matte finish or those that have a more velvety texture, as these can help control shine while still giving a soft glow.
How do I apply cream face highlighter for the best results?
To apply cream face highlighter effectively, start with clean, moisturized skin. After applying your foundation and concealer, take a small amount of highlighter on your fingertip or a makeup sponge. Dab the product onto the high points of your face, including the tops of your cheekbones, the bridge of your nose, and your cupid’s bow. It’s often helpful to use a tapping motion to blend the highlighter seamlessly into your skin, as this creates a more natural-looking glow.
For added impact, you can layer the highlighter by applying a little more product where you want a more intense shine. To finish, consider setting your makeup with a light dusting of translucent powder. This will help to lock everything in place and prevent any excess shine while keeping that gorgeous glow intact.
Are cream highlighters easy to remove?
Yes, cream highlighters are generally easy to remove. Since they are makeup products, they can be washed away with a good makeup remover or cleansing oil. For those who wear a lot of makeup, using a micellar water or a dedicated makeup remover can be particularly effective in ensuring all traces of the product are gone.
It’s important to follow up with a gentle face cleanser to ensure your skin is clean and free of residue after removing your makeup. This will help maintain your skin’s health and prevent any potential breakouts from leftover makeup products.
Can I use cream highlighters on top of powders?
Using cream highlighters over powdered products can be a bit tricky, as applying cream on top of powder can sometimes disrupt the makeup underneath. However, it can be done effectively with the right technique. If you want to layer a cream highlighter on top of powder, it is advisable to use a very light hand and a damp sponge to gently tap the highlighter onto your skin. This method minimizes the chances of moving your base makeup.
Alternatively, you can apply cream highlighter before setting your foundation with powder. This approach allows for better blendability and a smoother finish. However, if you prefer a layered look, consider choosing lighter finishes to avoid a cakey appearance.
What are some popular brands of cream face highlighters?
There are several high-quality brands that produce excellent cream face highlighters. Some of the most popular choices include Becca, which is known for its shimmering skin perfectors that provide a beautiful glow. Rhopos, NARS, and Fenty Beauty also offer top-of-the-line formulations in a variety of shades that cater to different skin tones and types.
Other noteworthy brands include ColourPop, known for its affordability and diverse color range, and Charlotte Tilbury for luxurious options with stunning packaging. Each brand brings something unique to the table, making it easy to find a cream highlighter that suits your preferences and budget.
Final Words
In conclusion, finding the best cream face highlighters can significantly elevate your makeup routine, adding that coveted glow to your complexion. Whether you’re a makeup novice or a seasoned pro, the right highlighter can enhance your features and provide a radiant finish that’s both effortless and stunning. With the variety of options available, including those discussed in our reviews, you can select a product that aligns perfectly with your skin type, desired finish, and budget.
As you embark on your journey to achieve a luminous look, remember to consider factors such as texture, blendability, and shade compatibility when choosing the best cream face highlighters. Investing in a quality cream highlighter not only enhances your beauty but also boosts your confidence, allowing you to shine in any setting. Explore the highlighted products and embrace the power of a radiant glow that transforms your overall makeup aesthetic.