Illuminator is used to highlight and enhance the high points of your face that naturally catch the light. Here's a breakdown of how to use it effectively:
Where to Apply Illuminator
The key is to place the illuminator on areas that will reflect light and give your skin a radiant glow. These areas typically include:
- Cheekbones: Apply along the tops of your cheekbones, blending upwards towards your temples. This will enhance your bone structure.
- Bridge of the Nose: A thin line down the bridge of your nose can make it appear longer and more defined. Be careful not to overdo it, as too much can look unnatural.
- Cupid's Bow: A dab of illuminator above your cupid's bow (the dip in the center of your upper lip) will make your lips appear fuller.
- Brow Bone: Applying illuminator just below the arch of your eyebrow can lift your brow and open up your eyes.
- Inner Corners of the Eyes: A tiny dot of illuminator in the inner corners of your eyes can brighten your overall complexion and make you look more awake.
- Chin: A small amount on the center of your chin can add dimension.
Types of Illuminator
Illuminators come in various forms, including:
- Powder: Best for oily skin and creating a subtle glow. Apply with a fan brush or a small highlighting brush.
- Cream: Ideal for dry skin and achieving a dewy finish. Can be applied with your fingers, a sponge, or a brush.
- Liquid: Versatile and can be mixed with foundation or moisturizer for an all-over glow or applied directly to targeted areas.
- Stick: Convenient for on-the-go application and precise highlighting.
Application Tips
- Start with a light hand: It's always easier to add more illuminator than to remove it.
- Blend well: Use a brush, sponge, or your fingers to seamlessly blend the illuminator into your skin. Avoid harsh lines.
- Choose the right shade: Select an illuminator that complements your skin tone. Fair skin tones look best with pearly or champagne shades, while medium skin tones can pull off gold or rose gold shades, and deeper skin tones can rock bronze or copper shades.
- Consider the occasion: For a natural daytime look, opt for a subtle illuminator. For a more glamorous evening look, you can use a more intense illuminator.
- Avoid applying illuminator to areas with large pores or blemishes: This will only accentuate them.
- Don't forget to highlight the body: You can also apply illuminator to your collarbones, shoulders, and décolletage for a radiant glow.
Choosing the Right Illuminator
| Skin Type | Recommended Illuminator Type | Shade Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Oily | Powder | Pearly, champagne |
| Dry | Cream/Liquid | Rose gold, golden |
| Combination | All Types | Depends on preference but test on skin first. Fair skin may prefer pearly, light pink. Medium, bronze. Darker, copper. |
By following these tips, you can use illuminator to enhance your features and achieve a healthy, radiant glow.
