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Best Face Highlighters of 2026

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Lisa Bechard

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Face highlighters are a popular makeup product that can help enhance the natural radiance of the skin. They come in various forms, such as powder, liquid, and cream, and are applied to the high points of the face, such as the cheekbones, brow bone, and nose bridge. These products are designed to catch and reflect light, creating a luminous glow that can make the skin look healthier and more youthful. Some highlighters also contain shimmer or glitter particles for an extra-dazzling effect. Face highlighters are versatile and can be used alone or on top of other makeup products like foundation and blush.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Top 10 Face Highlighters

#TOP 1

L'Oreal Paris True Match Lumi Glotion Illuminator

L'Oreal Paris True Match Lumi Glotion Illuminator Cover

L'Oreal Paris Makeup True Match Lumi Glotion, Natural Glow Enhancer, Illuminator Highlighter, Bronzing Drops For a Sun-Kissed Glow, 902 Light

L'Oreal Glotion Illuminator is a versatile liquid highlighter that instantly hydrates and enhances your skin's natural glow. Infused with glycerin and shea butter, this glow lotion keeps your skin hydrated all day long. You can wear it alone for a subtle radiance or layer it under foundation for a more luminous effect. With 4 shades to choose from, this illuminator is perfect for all skin tones. Experience a healthy, sun-kissed glow without the sun with this glow-enhancing makeup.

9.9
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Natural radiant glow
  • Lightweight, non-greasy texture
  • Blends effortlessly
  • Hydrates and smooths skin
  • No visible glitter

What We Don't Like

  • Minimal coverage for blemishes
  • May not suit oily skin

What Customers Say

"I can't get enough of this product—it gives my skin such a healthy, luminous glow that looks beautifully natural, not oily or sparkly at all. The lightweight formula feels comfortable all day, blends in seamlessly, and works perfectly whether I wear it alone, mix it with foundation, or dab it on as a highlight. My complexion looks instantly refreshed, hydrated, and smooth, so this has absolutely become a staple for me."

"I was on the hunt for something to replace heavy, cakey makeup, and this exceeded my expectations. The glow is subtle but youthful, it blurs my fine lines and dark circles, and it doesn’t settle into my skin or accentuate texture. I’m in my mid-40s and love that it gives me a sun-kissed look without any glitter. For the price, the results are shocking—no more foundation for me!"

"I’ve got dry, textured skin and usually don’t go for all-over foundation. This glow lotion is the perfect addition to my makeup routine—it’s lightweight, gives a dewy finish, and doesn’t interfere with my other products. The glow isn’t over-the-top, and a little really goes a long way. I’m thrilled I tried it and plan to keep using it every day!"

#TOP 2

L'Oreal Paris Lumi Le Glass Highlighter Stick

  • L'Oreal Paris
  • 0071249693438
  • Glassy Pink Ballet
  • 1 Count (Pack of 1)
L'Oreal Paris Lumi Le Glass Highlighter Stick Cover

L'Oreal Paris True Match Lumi Le Glass Highlighter Stick, Reflective, Translucent, Glassy Highlighter for Face and Body, 620 Pink Ballet, 0.17 Oz

The L'Oreal Lumi Highlighter Stick is designed to give you a radiant glow with just one swipe. Its smooth application ensures an even finish that reflects light beautifully, making it perfect for enhancing your features. This lightweight highlighter is easy to carry, allowing you to touch up your look anytime. You can layer it effortlessly over your makeup for a more dramatic effect. Suitable for both face and body, it can be applied on various areas like your cheeks and collarbone, giving you a versatile highlighting option in three stunning shades.

9.8
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Natural luminous glow
  • Easy application and blending
  • Lightweight comfortable formula
  • Buildable and long-lasting
  • Affordable price point

What We Don't Like

  • Small product size
  • May fade on oily skin

What Customers Say

"As someone who adores highlighters, I find this stick incredibly easy to use and it leaves a radiant, luminous finish that lasts all day. The lightweight texture is comfortable and never creases, and the price is unbeatable for the quality. I've tried pricier options, but none deliver this kind of glow or wear time."

"I picked up the Lumi Le Glass and it's just what I hoped for. It has fine shimmer and a glassy sheen that looks natural and dewy. It doesn't settle into fine lines or feel sticky—it's almost undetectable on my skin. Super blendable and a little goes a long way."

"This glow stick is nearly perfect for me—it provides a healthy, radiant look without being too shiny or glittery, and the creamy formula blends like a dream. My only tiny issue is that it doesn't last as long as I'd like on my oily skin, but it's still one of the best I've used for a quick, dewy touch-up."

#TOP 3

Milani Baked Highlighter (Dolce Perla)

Milani Baked Highlighter (Dolce Perla) Cover

Milani Highlighter Makeup - Baked Contour Powder & Face Highligher, Made in Italy - Dolce Perla

Milani Highlighter is a cruelty-free baked powder highlighter that offers intense pigment and illumination. The velvety formula blends seamlessly, allowing you to achieve a natural glow or a high-impact look with ease. This product is oil-free and free of paraben preservatives, making it ideal for those prone to breakouts. Use a highlighter brush to apply it on the high points of your face for a radiant finish. Milani celebrates diversity and aims to provide makeup for everyone, regardless of background or ethnicity.

9.6
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Natural luminous glow
  • Buildable fine powder
  • Affordable price
  • Multi-use highlighter and eyeshadow
  • Attractive packaging

What We Don't Like

  • May be too shimmery for some

What Customers Say

"I was truly impressed with this highlighter—the formula is flawless, the finish is delicate yet radiant, and the pan size is generous. I love that it blends easily and gives a sophisticated glow that doesn’t highlight pores or texture. The packaging is also beautiful! This is absolutely a must-have in my collection."

"For me, this highlighter is a staple in my daily routine. It provides an instant, luminous sheen without being glittery. I’ve even started using it as an eyeshadow because it’s just that versatile and gorgeous."

"I’ve tried much more expensive highlighters, but this one delivers comparable quality at a fraction of the price. It’s lightweight, gives a beautiful glow, and even doubles as a shimmery eyeshadow. Definitely a great value for the quality!"

#TOP 4

wet n wild MegaGlo Highlighting Powder

wet n wild MegaGlo Highlighting Powder Cover

wet n wild MegaGlo Highlighting Powder, Highlighter Makeup, Shimmer Glow, Pink Rose Gold Blossom Glow

Enhance your skin with wet n wild Highlighter, a velvety-smooth powder that gives you a naturally luminous glow. Infused with shimmering pearl pigments, this highlighter helps you shimmer and shine in all the right places. The fan-favorite formula is easy to blend, providing an ultra-pearly finish. Use it on your cheekbones, brow bone, and cupid's bow for an all-over glow that lasts.

9.5
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Affordable price
  • Smooth, blendable formula
  • Natural radiant glow
  • Beautiful color options
  • Sturdy, attractive packaging

What We Don't Like

  • Some colors too pink for some
  • No brush included

What Customers Say

"I’m really impressed by how buttery, smooth, and easy to blend these highlighters are. They offer a gorgeous glow without being too glittery, and for the price, they’re a steal. I did notice one shade was a bit too pink for me, but it still works well as a blush topper. Overall, excellent value and consistency across all shades."

"Adding the Wet n Wild megaglo Highlighting Powder to my collection has been a game-changer for a budget-friendly makeup routine. The smooth texture and blendability are outstanding, and the glow can be built up or kept subtle. The only thing I’d ask for is a small brush included, but otherwise, it’s a fantastic buy."

"Absolutely love this highlighter! It’s the perfect mix of cute, affordable, and shimmery. I’d recommend it to anyone who enjoys a little sparkle in their routine. For the price, it’s a clear five-star product."

#TOP 5

wet n wild MegaGlo Blushlighter

wet n wild MegaGlo Blushlighter Cover

Wet n Wild MegaGlo Blushlighter, Blendable Blush & Highlighter Set, Shimmery Metallic Finish, Highlight Bling

Get the perfect glowing look with the wet n wild MegaGlo Blushlighter, a blush and highlighter duo that sculpts, defines, and highlights in one sweep. With ultra-reflective, micro-fine pearl pigments, the soft, buildable shades enhance cheeks with a luminous, radiant glow. The duo has two levels of intensity for color that compliments every skin tone. You can use the two colors alone or blend them together for contouring, or layer them on top of each other. wet n wild is a trusted beauty destination for beauty lovers of all ages, ethnicities, skin colors, and economic statuses.

9.4
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Affordable price
  • Versatile dual colors
  • Long-lasting wear
  • Natural luminous finish
  • Easy application

What We Don't Like

  • Prone to crumbling
  • Possible shipping damage

What Customers Say

"I’ve got blue eyes with yellow chimerism, and this palette really brings out a stunning greenish-blue effect. I love how the pinker shade works as eyeshadow and the lighter one as a highlighter for my inner corners and cheekbones. Absolutely worth the price!"

"For me, Wet n Wild makes the best highlighters you can get for this price. I’m not a makeup expert—just someone who wants a little glow on her cheeks. It lasts all day, removes easily at night, and the price can’t be beat. Totally recommend—just buy it!"

"While the colors are gorgeous, my palette arrived broken from shipping. I was really looking forward to using it, but unfortunately, I had to return it unopened. It’s a shame, because I could tell the shade was beautiful."

#TOP 6

L'Oreal Paris True Match Lumi Le Glow Highlighter Stick

  • L'Oreal Paris
  • 0071249693452
  • Glowy Creme Chic
  • 1 Count (Pack of 1)
L'Oreal Paris True Match Lumi Le Glow Highlighter Stick Cover

L'Oreal Paris True Match Lumi Le Glow Highlighter Stick, Luminous, Satin, Glowy Highlighter for Face and Body, 630 Crème Chic, 0.17 Oz

The L'Oreal Paris Glow Stick gives you an instant radiant glow with just one swipe, thanks to its smooth and even satin finish. It’s designed for easy, on-the-go use, allowing you to quickly add a bright touch to your makeup without hassle. The lightweight formula blends seamlessly into your skin, feeling comfortable all day long, so you don’t have to worry about heaviness or stickiness. You can apply it to your face or body—like your cheeks, brow bones, forehead, neck, or collarbones—to highlight your best features with a natural, luminous shine. This stick is perfect for building up your glow and layering over your makeup effortlessly.

9.2
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Natural, luminous glow
  • Easy, quick application
  • Lightweight, comfortable formula
  • Blendable and buildable
  • Affordable price

What We Don't Like

  • Small product size
  • May fade on oily skin

What Customers Say

"As someone who loves trying new highlighters, I was really impressed by how smoothly this stick applies and the gorgeous, radiant finish it delivers. It's super easy to use for touch-ups throughout the day, and I appreciate that the coverage can be built up for either a subtle or intense highlight. Not only does it last all day on my skin, but it's also budget-friendly and feels incredibly lightweight!"

"I picked up the Lumi Le Glass shade and it’s exactly what I was hoping for. The fine shimmer and glossy effect look so natural and glowy on my face. I love that it doesn’t settle into lines or feel heavy or sticky—I can barely tell I’m wearing it! It’s easy to blend with my fingers, and a little bit goes a long way."

"This highlighter is almost perfect for me because it gives a healthy, dewy glow without being too sparkly. The formula is creamy and blends seamlessly whether I’m wearing foundation or not. My only minor gripe is that it tends to fade a bit on my oily skin after a few hours, but I still think it’s one of the best cream highlighters I’ve tried for quick, natural radiance."

#TOP 7

ELLESY Highlighter Makeup Palette - SUN GLOW

  • ELLESY
  • FJFIEJFOK251
  • #03 Sun Glow
ELLESY Highlighter Makeup Palette - SUN GLOW Cover

ELESSY Highlighter Makeup Palette,Face Glitter illuminator Palette,Natural Sparkling Finish Highlighter Powder,High Glossy Shimmer Smooth Baked Powder,Lasting Shining Highlighter Palette -SUN GLOW

ELLESY Highlighter Palette in SUN GLOW offers easy application for enhancing your features, available in 4 shades catering to various skin tones. With a soft texture and long-lasting formula, this palette helps create a natural or glam look. The lightweight packaging makes it convenient for on-the-go use, suitable for different occasions.

9.2
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Intense, beautiful glow
  • Highly pigmented highlighter
  • Soft, quality brush included
  • Convenient built-in mirror
  • Great value for price

What We Don't Like

  • Some product fallout
  • Brush may need replacing

What Customers Say

"I've worked at Sephora, Ulta, and Chanel, but I still haven't come across a highlighter as gorgeous and smooth as this one. The glow is incredible, and the included brush feels exceptionally soft. For the price and quality, it's honestly a steal!"

"I absolutely love this cool-toned contour—it works great even on tan skin! I use it for my nose and it gives a snatched look. The brush is good for blending, but for a super thin line, I'd recommend getting a thinner brush. The highlighter is super pigmented, and the built-in mirror makes it so convenient."

"This highlighter is just stunning! It delivers a beautiful, shiny glow and I get compliments all the time. You seriously won't be disappointed—it's that impressive!"

#TOP 8

e.l.f. Halo Glow Highlight Beauty Wand

  • e.l.f.
  • 84690
  • Champagne Campaign
e.l.f. Halo Glow Highlight Beauty Wand Cover

e.l.f. Halo Glow Highlight Beauty Wand, Liquid Highlighter Wand For Luminous, Glowing Skin, Buildable Formula, Vegan & Cruelty-free,Champagne Campaign

Enhance your natural radiance with the e.l.f. Highlight Wand. This liquid highlighting wand is designed to give you a dewy, radiant glow in seconds. Infused with hydrating squalane, the lightweight formula creates a lit-from-within glow that makes your skin look luminous. The buildable and blendable formula effortlessly blends into your skin, allowing you to customize the intensity of the highlight. The cushion-tip applicator makes precise application a breeze, allowing you to highlight the high points of your face for instant illumination. With its skin-loving ingredients and cruelty-free, vegan formula, the e.l.f. Highlight Wand is a must-have for anyone looking to achieve a natural, glowing complexion.

9.1
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Natural radiant glow
  • Easy to blend
  • Buildable intensity
  • Long-lasting wear
  • Affordable price

What We Don't Like

  • Packaging could be improved

What Customers Say

"I was amazed by how effortless this wand is to use and how luminous my skin looks. After trying it, I immediately ordered more from the line. Comparable to high-end brands but much more affordable, this highlighter blends smoothly and gives a gorgeous, non-cakey finish. I even gifted them to my daughter for Christmas, and she was thrilled! Definitely a must-have in my makeup bag."

"As someone who loves a dewy, glowy look, this highlighter is a dream. A little goes a long way and the application is so simple. I like to layer it under my BB cream and blush for a healthy, radiant finish. I’ve received tons of compliments on my glow since I started using this product!"

"The 'Champagne Campaign' shade has become a staple in my routine. The formula is vegan and gives a beautiful, natural radiance that can be built up as needed. It’s perfect for anyone wanting a subtle warmth and a guilt-free glow. I highly recommend it for a luminous finish!"

#TOP 9

NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Buttermelt Highlighter

NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Buttermelt Highlighter Cover

NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Buttermelt Highlighter, Powder Highlighter Makeup, With Up to 12H Wear and High Impact Glow - 25 Butta Than Gold (Light Gold)

The NYX Buttermelt Highlighter offers a smooth, buttery texture that blends easily for a natural, radiant finish. It stays put for up to 12 hours without fading or flaking, so you can rely on it all day long. This highlighter is packed with shimmering pearls that add a bright, dimensional glow to your cheeks and shoulders, perfect for enhancing your natural features. Plus, it’s enriched with nourishing mango, shea, and almond butters, giving you a creamy feel and extra hydration. If you want a glowing look that lasts and feels comfortable, this product is a great choice.

9.0
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Affordable price
  • Buttery smooth texture
  • Long-lasting glow
  • Versatile application
  • High color payoff

What We Don't Like

  • May be too glittery

What Customers Say

"I've tried so many highlighters, and this one stands out for its buttery smooth texture and intense glow. A tiny bit goes a long way, and it lasts all day. Plus, it's an excellent value for the quality you get!"

"This highlighter is incredibly versatile—I use it on my cheeks, eyes, and even to brighten the inner corners. My sensitive eyes have had no issues, and the shine is just perfect for my daily look."

"If you love a bold, colorful, and stunning highlight, this is a must-try! The color payoff is top tier, and it's easy to apply with either a brush or finger. Another amazing formula from NYX!"

#TOP 10

KYDA Face Highlighter Palette Kit - SUN GLOW

  • KYDA
  • SUN GLOW
  • 1 Count (Pack of 1)
KYDA Face Highlighter Palette Kit - SUN GLOW Cover

KYDA Face Highlighter Palette, High Glossy Face Illuminator Palette, Natural Glow Finish, Pearl Shimmer Smooth Baked Powder, Lasting Sparkling Champagne Highlighter Makeup-SUN GLOW

The KYDA Face Highlighter Palette Kit is perfect for those who want to achieve a natural and shiny three-dimensional makeup look. This highlighter concealer palette has a 3D flash texture and smooth powder that gives your face a non-marking and powder-free highlight makeup. With a professional brush included, you can easily apply and color while repairing and concealing blemishes. The palette has three different colors to choose from, making it suitable for any occasion. It is also a perfect gift for a close friend with its exquisite packaging and high-gloss brush.

9.0
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Natural, buildable glow
  • Blendable, easy application
  • Good value for price
  • Sturdy packaging with mirror
  • Useful included brush

What We Don't Like

  • Limited shade range
  • Some fallout in pan

What Customers Say

"I've been using this KYDA baked highlighter and contour palette and I love how the champagne shade delivers a soft, natural glow that's never too sparkly or heavy. It's so easy to blend, even for quick makeup routines, and I appreciate that it's versatile enough for a subtle or intense highlight. The quality is excellent for the price, and it lasts beautifully throughout the day."

"The color is perfect for my light-medium olive skin, and it actually creates a defined contour without looking muddy or orange—something I struggle with in other products. I like the generous amount of product, handy brush, and the mirror in the package. The formula is blendable and looks like a real shadow. I do wish they would expand the shade range, but for my skin tone, this is a winner."

"I've been searching for a cool-toned contour, and this one truly delivers. The included brush is small and great for precise application, though I prefer using a fluffier brush for a softer look. The case and mirror are super cute, and I’m planning to repurchase when I run out."

Face Highlighters Comparison Table

#TOP 1 L'Oreal Paris True Match Lumi Glotion Illuminator Cover

L'Oreal Paris True Match Lumi Glotion Illuminator

#TOP 2 L'Oreal Paris Lumi Le Glass Highlighter Stick Cover

L'Oreal Paris Lumi Le Glass Highlighter Stick

#TOP 3 Milani Baked Highlighter (Dolce Perla) Cover

Milani Baked Highlighter (Dolce Perla)

#TOP 4 wet n wild MegaGlo Highlighting Powder Cover

wet n wild MegaGlo Highlighting Powder

#TOP 5 wet n wild MegaGlo Blushlighter Cover

wet n wild MegaGlo Blushlighter

#TOP 6 L'Oreal Paris True Match Lumi Le Glow Highlighter Stick Cover

L'Oreal Paris True Match Lumi Le Glow Highlighter Stick

#TOP 7 ELLESY Highlighter Makeup Palette - SUN GLOW Cover

ELLESY Highlighter Makeup Palette - SUN GLOW

#TOP 8 e.l.f. Halo Glow Highlight Beauty Wand Cover

e.l.f. Halo Glow Highlight Beauty Wand

#TOP 9 NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Buttermelt Highlighter Cover

NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Buttermelt Highlighter

#TOP 10 KYDA Face Highlighter Palette Kit - SUN GLOW Cover

KYDA Face Highlighter Palette Kit - SUN GLOW

Brand L'Oreal Paris L'Oreal Paris Milani wet n wild wet n wild L'Oreal Paris ELLESY e.l.f. NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP KYDA
Item Form Lotion Stick Powder Powder Powder Stick Powder Liquid Powder Powder
Coverage Sheer Sheer Buildable Medium Medium Sheer Light Full Buildable buildable
Color 902 Light Glassy Pink Ballet Dolce Perla (Original) Blossom Glow 2- Highlight Bling Glowy Creme Chic #03 Sun Glow Champagne Campaign Butta Than Gold SUN GLOW
Skin Tone All All All All All All Light All All All
FTB Score
9.9
9.8
9.6
9.5
9.4
9.2
9.2
9.1
9.0
9.0
Where to Buy

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is highlighter good for face?

Yes, highlighters are great for the face. They can give you a youthful and glowing appearance by enhancing your facial features and adding a radiant touch to your complexion.

2. Should highlighter be lighter or darker than foundation?

When choosing a highlighter, it is recommended to select a shade or two lighter than your natural skin tone. This helps create a light and bright effect that complements your foundation and enhances your overall look.

3. Do you put highlighter on before or after foundation?

For a prominent highlighter look, it is best to apply it after foundation. This allows the highlighter to catch the light and become a noticeable part of your makeup. However, if you prefer an all-over dewy glow, mixing a little highlighter with your foundation can achieve that effect.

4. Is stick or liquid highlighter better?

The choice between stick and liquid highlighter depends on the desired effect. Liquid highlighters give a natural, glowing-from-within look. Stick highlighters are great for a more dramatic glow, while cream highlighters offer a subtle effect. Consider your desired look and choose accordingly.

Editor's Notes

During our face highlighter research, we found 48 face highlighter products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 402,554 customer reviews through our big data system to write the face highlighters list. We found that most customers choose face highlighters with an average price of $7.56.

The face highlighters are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of face highlighters, including L'Oreal Paris, Milani, wet n wild, ELLESY, e.l.f.. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by

Lisa Bechard Avatar

Lisa Bechard

Lisa Bechard is a skin therapist with 12 years of working experience in the beauty industry and also an experienced beauty writer who has expertise in skincare, medical aesthetics and cosmetic surgery, and wellness. Her writing skills are excellent and all her content is very persuasive and insightful.