Picking a highlighter
Finish matters more than brand. A finely milled powder reads as lit-from-within; a glittery one reads as glitter, especially in daylight and in photographs taken with flash.
Liquid, for skin that looks like skin
Liquids blend into the base rather than sitting on top, so they survive a humid day better than powder. Iconic London Illuminator Drops (Rs 5,999) can also be mixed into foundation for an all-over glow.
Stick, for speed
The easiest format to apply without a brush. Pixi On-the-Glow SuperGlow Stick (Rs 4,500) goes straight on the cheekbone and blends with a fingertip.
Powder, for control
Best over a powdered base and the easiest to build slowly. The Christine 4 Colour Highlighter Kit (Rs 1,380) is the affordable way to try four shades before committing, and Fenty Diamond Bomb (Rs 9,999) is the high-impact end.
Shades for warm and deep skin
Champagne and gold sit better on warm and olive undertones than icy silver, which can look grey. Deeper skin tones generally need a more pigmented formula, so liquids and richer powders beat a sheer pearl.
Where to put it
The top of the cheekbone, the bridge of the nose, the cupid's bow, and the inner corner of the eye. Keeping it off the outer cheek is what stops it reading as shine rather than glow.
Highlighters FAQs
Powder or liquid highlighter?
Liquid blends into the skin and lasts better in humidity; powder is easier to control and build. On oily skin a liquid that sets usually outlasts a powder.
Which highlighter shade suits Pakistani skin?
Champagne and warm gold for most warm and olive undertones. Icy silver can read grey. Deeper skin tones need more pigment, so a richer formula rather than a sheer pearl.
How do I stop highlighter looking glittery?
Choose a finely milled formula and apply with a small brush or a fingertip, not a large fluffy brush. Build in thin layers and keep it to the high points of the face.
Highlighter before or after powder?
Powder highlighter goes on after setting powder. Liquid or stick goes on before, straight over foundation, so the powder does not lift it.