LET IT GLOW

CHOOSING THE RIGHT HIGHLIGHTER FOR YOUR SKIN TONE IS A SHORTCUT TO A LUMINOUS COMPLEXION

Summer make-up is all about subtle shimmer, with highlighted cheekbones giving a fresh-off-the-sand sheen or radiant evening glow.

While it’s tempting to pick up a rainbow highlighter and get your glitter on, certain colours can leave different skin tones looking flushed or ashen.

Before you go sweeping on the shiny stuff, LUMA make-up artist Sarah Tammer has some tips on choosing the right illuminator for your hue.

For fair skin tones, Sarah recommends ivory shades. These will give the appearance of higher cheekbones by lifting the angles around the face.

“Those with fair skin should opt for light and bright highlighters or illuminators with a pearlescent finish,” Sarah says.

“As a general rule, you should select a highlighter two shades lighter than your skin tone.”

For tan or olive skin tones, Sarah says golden colours enhance that bronzed beach babe look.

“Warmer, golden tones work well with girls and guys who have a medium to olive complexion,” she says.

“It will make you look like a glowing goddess — not a frost queen.”

Sarah says darker skin tones suit opulent pink or deep resin shades, as warm, rich colours keep skin looking rosy.

“Avoid looking ashy by opting for rich rose-gold tones such as LUMA’s Blushed Nomad highlighter,” Sarah says.

Highlighters can come in different forms including brush-on powders, crayon pens or liquid.

Brush-on powders need a fan brush or thick paintbrush tool to apply to a concentrated area and produce a soft, matte finish.

Crayon pens have excellent precision and can be applied with ease on top of foundation by gently stroking the pen downwards from the cheekbone.

Liquid highlighter comes out as a smooth gel and looks great when dabbed in with a moist beauty blender, creating a dewy, fresh flush.

When selecting the right highlighter, remember Sarah’s skin tone advice and think about when you’re going to wear it — powders and liquid forms are best applied at home with the correct tools, crayon pens can be popped in a purse and used anywhere.