I’ve got a new makeup obsession: highlighters. They’ve taken over from blushers as my new must-have pick-me-up when I’m feeling a bit, well you know, not 25 anymore.
The other thing I like about them is that I have finally worked out how and where to put them on, which helps. So in that pre-school-run five minutes when I try and make myself look less like I’m still wearing a Halloween costume, a bit of highlighter on a few strategic areas works a treat. And they’re great in this harsh winter light for adding a bit of oomph without making yourself look too ‘done up’ for January. Because nobody’s feeling remotely festive any more…
I’m smitten with Nourish Golden Glow Illuminating Face Shimmer (£14.95). You can mix a bit with your foundation or BB cream, or just dab straight on from the handy pump dispenser, in my case in a little half moon shape from brow bone to top of cheekbone. I’m not sure if that’s technically correct but it seems to work and gives the effect of light bouncing off your cheeks because you are that glowing.
That half moon shape is even easier with a big fat stick like No7 Instant Radiance Highlighter (£9.95), which is superb for one of those ‘makeup in under 30 seconds’ mornings. It just seems to add a bit of life to flat, dull, ‘first thing’ complexions. This one goes on creamy but not greasy and blends a treat.
Also super-easy is this pen-style highlighter from Clarins: Instant Light Brush-on Perfector (£25 at John Lewis). I love a bit of Clarins as you know, and this one is a cracker as it brightens while it tightens and smoothes. Lovely multi-tasking.
A powder is great when you have a bit more time: I like pretending I know what I’m doing with a selection of fancy brushes. M&S Autograph Pure Luxe Powder Highlighter (£15) has become a bit of a go-to for me as it has a wonderful, non-pinky shade to it, which I think suits my green-eyed warm colouring.
And finally, this little number to show off in the Ladies. Clinique Fresh Bloom Allover Colour (£26.00 at John Lewis), which comes in Peony, Posy, Almond Blossom and Plum Poppy. I like the Almond Blossom, pictured, as it has a warmth to it. You can use this on specific areas or all over for a dewy, (nearly) spring-like glow.
For more makeup tip and trends head over to StyleNest’s Best of Beauty page here.