How Do I Use Skin Illuminators for Luminous Skin?

Reader J posed a question to me recently asking how to achieve the glowing, luminous look A-listers sport on the red carpet. And although the stars have dermatologists and the whole works on speed dial, this luminous, glowing look is all thanks to makeup!

I like it when faces glow, something like pearl (not sparkles and glitters) and I’ve been trying to find the product which can help me to achieve this look. I found an article which refers to skin illuminators. By illuminating I mean pearl, not glitters or sparkles. Beyonce, JLo and Angelina Jolie have that kind of look. Something like a healthy and moisture look. Of course I always use moisturizers and I do everything my face needs, but I love this glowy look.

The article you read was right, J, they are called skin illuminators. Skin illuminators are quite self-explanatory: They are either liquid or powder based products that are meant to give your face that natural angelic glow. And don’t worry, they give a subtle glow without the tacky shimmer and glitter you were worried about! The lovely ladies above show off what skin illuminators can do perfectly.

How to Apply Skin Illuminators

Skin illuminators mostly come in liquid form, though there are a few powder and cream products. You can use skin illuminators in two ways. First, you can use it to highlight your features, so it ‘catches’ the light and appears more prominent. To use skin illuminators individually on your features, you can choose either a liquid, cream and powders illuminator and apply it to:

• your cheekbones
• down the bridge of your nose
• brow bones
• inner corners of your eye
• cupid’s bow

At each feature, ‘tap’ some of your illuminator and gently blend in so it looks natural.

However, if you want to use a skin illuminator for an all-over glow, you can squirt some liquid illuminator and mix it with your regular foundation and apply it all over your skin. Apply all over your face and remember to blend well around your hairline and jawline. (This only works with liquid illuminators, which is why they are so popular!)

Some Skin Illuminators to Try

Here are some skin illuminators in the market right now to get you started on your hunt. I haven’t personally tried any of these products, so I can’t fully recommend them. However, this list is based on recommendations from friends, research on best sellers and thru word-of-mouth. Hopefully it is a start, and as always, if you have any more recommendations, please do add them in the comments.

1. Stila Illuminating Finish Powder.

A luminous shimmer powder for your face, used as either a highlighter as I described above, or for an all-over glow. Don’t worry, the picture is Bronze, but the other color available is Gold, a golden champagne color that gives a light sheen. The light reflecting powder instantly enhances your features and keeps your skin looking beautiful.

2. Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer Illuminating.

An award-winning tinted moisturizer that gives great coverage for your face, this product also features something different: a shimmery radiant finish. This product is applied all over your face and gives a dewy look, so you look as if you’re naturally glowing from within! I have tried their ordinary tinted moisturizer (review here) and if it’s half as good as that … it’s a winner!

3. Benefit High Beam.

Described as a “luminescent complexion enhancer”, this star product is a must have and has been spotted on the red carpet, featured in countless magazines, and comes as a recommendation from my friend! It is a liquid highlighter that can be applied to certain areas to your face for that glow, or mixed with your foundation. The color is a gorgeous ethereal pink and adds a soft, natural glow to your skin.

4. YSL Touche Eclat Radiant Touch.

A magic pen that erases dull complexion, dark circles and acts as a highlighter to brighten up your skin. Loved by thousands and considered an ‘It’ product to have, Touche Eclat is loved by celebrities, makeup artists, models, and women everywhere – it is even an award winning product. Use it for instant radiance, luminosity and lift.

5. Sephora Luminius Glow.

The first cream product on the list, this lightweight cream gives you a pearly finish for a luminous complexion. Said to create a “sheer candlelight effect on the skin”, this can be used as a highlighter or melted to be mixed with foundation for an all over glow.

6. Guerlain Meteorities Illuminating Pressed Powder.

Inspired by the classic pearl, this luminous powder does just that – makes you shine like a classic beauty. Used all over or in individual places, this high tech powder accentuates light, conceals blemishes and brings out radiance without shine. The compact includes both matte and pearlescent hues, so as you swirl your brush over to apply, you get the best of both worlds for a subtle, irresistible iridescence.

7. Clinique Up-Lighting Liquid Illuminator.

This sheer liquid illuminator “glides on to create a natural looking luminosity” and comes in different colors of your choice, from bronze, peach and a simple blush color. It instant illuminates the skin and is suited for all skin types and best of all, it’s oil free!

I hope I’ve helped, J. Readers, what do you think of skin illuminators? Do you use them? Again, if you have any more products to recommend, please let us all know! Oh, and if you have beauty question as well, just e-mail me and I’ll be more than happy to help. :)