The 10 most reviewed highlighters and illuminators

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The 10 most reviewed highlighters and illuminators

An illuminated, healthy-looking complexion is always at the top of our beauty wish list, which is why a hero highlighter is a must-have in every makeup bag.

Our members have tried and tested many, so if you’re looking for one with the right amount of glow, these are the top 10 most reviewed:

RELATED: What’s the difference between stobing and contouring?


#10 Nude by Nature Touch of Glow Highlight Stick, $24.95

Ideal for: A natural glow using natural ingredients

You say: “I have this highlighter in the bronze shade. I love the rose gold packaging, very luxurious and expensive looking. The bronze highlighter is a really pretty and natural looking highlight.” – bh member womble

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#9 Rimmel London Kate Moss Sculpting & Highlighting Kit, $16.95

Ideal for: Those after an affordable complexion kit in one

You say: “This palette is compact and has all 3 in one. The bronzer is matte and great for someone with fair skin, the highlighter glows so well on the cheekbones and nose bridge, and the blush is matte as well which really finishes off the face naturally. ” – bh member all rounded beauty

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#8 Nude by Nature Soft Focus Illuminator, $22.95

Ideal for: Those looking for a subtle, one-size-fits-all glow.

You say: “I use this illuminator under my foundation and powder when I really want my face to look the best and make it glow. A little goes a long way, it will last a while and [it’s] a good price. It dries quickly and it’s non greasy, [which is] good for blemished skin. [I] had no problems.” – bh member ada_1

#7 Benefit Watt’s Up, $53

Ideal for: Waking up a dull complexion.

You say: “I have never been able to achieve dewy skin until now. This highlighter is a gorgeous champagne colour and makes my skin look so healthy and pretty. It will definitely brighten up your face! I apply it with my fingertips and blend it out. I am sure the sponge at the end is a good idea but I didn’t really get it to work that well. This is the nicest highlighter and is definitely worth the $$$.” –bh member Kezzibelle

#6 Maybelline New York Master Contour V-Face Duo Stick, $19.95

Ideal for: Travel 

You say: “I’ve always used creams for contouring as I think they look much better than the powder. It comes in a very travel-friendly tube and the shades are very accurate to my skin tone. ” – bh member Spitfire

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#5 Bobbi Brown Shimmer Brick, $78

Ideal for: An all-in-one glow for cheeks, eyes and anywhere else.

You say:It gives a really nice glow to the cheeks, and pretty much works as a blush and highlighter in one sweep! You can also use the shades individually as eyeshadows. ” – bh member dollparts__x

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#4 M.A.C Mineralize Skinfinish, $54

Ideal for: Those looking for a lightweight powder.

You say: “This highlighter is finely milled and is a beautiful golden champagne shade. I have used this product both with and without fake tan (I am extremely pale and my tan is very dark), and this highlighter truly looks beautiful on any skin colour! It adds an incredible finish to any make-up look, from naturally glowing to very glamourous. It adds the most beautiful sheen on the skin and makes you look glowing and radiant.” –bh member sophie33

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#3 Maybelline New York Master Strobing Stick Illuminating Highlighter, $15.95

Ideal for: Swipe-on strobing

You say: I absolutely love these. The light shade is beautiful on the skin, it makes me look really healthy and glows, like I’ve just worked out, drunk all the water and eaten an acia bowl.” – bh member Pretyy_please

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#2 Maybelline New York Face Studio Master Chrome Metallic Highlighter, $19.95

Ideal for: A wet-look dewy glow

You say:  “What a beautiful strobing highlighter! I received this in my rewards room haul and don’t regret my choice. An amazing drugstore dupe for a high end effect you would usually be paying triple the price for!” – bh member missm7393

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#1 Benefit High Beam, $45

Ideal for: Cool-toned skin.

You say: The formula itself is amazing. The glitter/sparkles are SO fine, that it honestly looks like you have your own natural glowy skin if you apply just the right amount. This product is great for skin on the dry side and enlarged pores. Powdered highlight will normally look patchy and accentuate my drier areas, and make my enlarged pores much more noticeable. This stuff is perfect. -sunjeanie

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*Ranking is correct as of 30 August 2019. Main image credit: @namvo Have you tried any of these highlighters or illuminators? Or are there any others you’d recommend?

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