You use a highlighter palette by applying the different shades to enhance specific areas of the face, using the appropriate brush for application.
How to Use a Highlighter Palette Effectively
A highlighter palette typically contains various shades of shimmery powders, designed to catch light and enhance your facial features. To effectively use a highlighter palette, follow these steps:
Step-by-Step Guide
- Choose Your Shade: Select a shade that complements your skin tone. Lighter shades work best for fair skin, while deeper shades are suitable for darker skin tones.
- Prepare Your Skin: Make sure your foundation and concealer are applied.
- Select Your Brush: Use a fan brush, a tapered highlighting brush, or even a soft eyeshadow brush for precise application.
- Application Points:
- Cheekbones: Apply highlighter along the top of your cheekbones.
- Brow Bone: Sweep some highlighter under the brow bone to lift the eye area.
- Inner Corner of the Eyes: A small dab can brighten your eyes.
- Cupid's Bow: A touch above your cupid's bow can accentuate your lips.
- Bridge of the Nose: A thin line down the bridge can slim the nose.
- Tip of the Nose: Apply a small amount to the tip for a cute touch.
- Blend: Use light strokes to blend the product into your skin.
- Layer: Build the intensity gradually to avoid over-application.
Techniques and Tips
- Start Light: Always apply a small amount first, and build if needed.
- Use a Light Hand: Don't press the brush too hard against the skin.
- Consider Texture: Powders work well on most skin types, but cream highlighters may be better for dry skin.
Example from Reference
The reference provided mentions applying a bronze color from a palette using a contour brush to the cheekbones, under the jawline, and along the hairline. Although this example focuses on bronzer, the principle of using a brush to apply product to specific areas is similar for highlighting.
What to Avoid
- Over-application: Too much highlighter can look unnatural.
- Using the Wrong Brush: An overly dense brush can apply too much product.
- Skipping Blending: Unblended highlighter can look streaky.
- Applying on Textured Skin: Using excessive amounts on textured skin can emphasize imperfections.
By following these steps and tips, you can use a highlighter palette to achieve a radiant, sculpted, and glowing look.