Depending on the level of glow you want on any given day, the way you apply your highlight can make a huge difference to the overall success of your makeup look. Keep reading to learn how to apply highlighter based on the glow you want, without ruining your overall aesthetic.

Step 1 – Skin Prep

The whole point of highlighting is to make your skin look as healthy and glowy as possible. The most important step in achieving skin that’s healthy and hydrated is with the proper skin prep, without which your makeup look will never look just right.

You can prep your skin pretty easily. Make sure you wash your face, apply a toner and then moisturise your skin before starting to apply any makeup.

Step 2 – Foundation

Of course you don’t need to wear foundation to wear highlighter, but if you’re trying to glow as much as possible, you might want to add some face oil or liquid illuminator into your foundation before putting it on your skin. It’ll make your skin look dewy and ensure your highlight looks beautifully seamless.

Step 3 – Carefully choose your highlighter formula

This is really where your highlight application can make or break your makeup look. It can be difficult to find the right shade and the right amount of shimmer, so here are some extra tips.

Creamy highlighters work best on dry skin.

Power formulas are better for oilier skin types and should be applied last.

Liquid highlighter often breaks up the foundation, so either use them before your foundation, or mix them in with the rest of your face makeup for an overall glow.

Step 4 – Have the right applicator

Depending on the level of highlight you want, the formula of the highlighter, and where you’re putting it, ensuring you have the right applicator is essential.

If you’ve opted for a cream, these are generally best applied with your fingers, using the warmth of your skin to melt the product into your skin.

Powders are usually applied with a brush or a sponge, depending on whether you want a lighter coverage. Fan brushes are ideal for light coverage, whereas a stippling brush or a damp beauty sponge will give you a lot more glow. If you want a precise placement, consider using a pencil brush for areas like your nose or eyes.

Step 5 – Apply it in the right places

Highlight is basically a product that is the exact opposite of contour. The goal of it is to bring the high points of your face forward and, well, highlight them. Think the tops of your cheekbones, your brow bones, the bridge of your nose and the top of your cupid’s bow.

For areas like your cheekbones, use your brush to gently sweep your highlighter over the skin. If you’re using a sponge instead, lightly bounce it into your skin to press the highlighter in. You may want to blend it out with your fingers if you’re applying it to areas like the tip of your nose or the inner corners of your eyes to ensure the product gets exactly where you want it.