In the world of makeup, there’s a language all its own, filled with terms that can make even the most seasoned beauty enthusiasts feel like they’re speaking a different language. One such area is the art of highlighting, which can transform your face into a canvas of radiance. This article will delve into the English terms for makeup highlights, offering a comprehensive guide to help you understand and master the art of highlighting.
Understanding Highlighting
Before we dive into the specific terms, it’s important to understand what highlighting is. Highlighting is a makeup technique that involves applying light-colored products to certain areas of the face to create a shimmering, glowing effect. This technique can accentuate features, open up your face, and make your skin look more radiant.
Key Terms for Makeup Highlights
1. Contouring
Contouring is the process of defining your facial features by applying darker shades to create shadows. This technique complements highlighting by creating a balanced, structured look. When used in conjunction with highlighting, contouring can enhance the definition of your cheekbones, jawline, and other facial contours.
2. Highlighting
Highlighting, as mentioned earlier, involves applying light-colored products to certain areas of the face to create a shimmering effect. Common highlighter shades include pale pink, rose gold, and white. This technique is often used to accentuate the cheekbones, forehead, and bridge of the nose.
3. Illuminator
An illuminator is a type of highlighter that is designed to give a more intense, radiant glow. It often contains a higher concentration of shimmer and is perfect for creating a dewy, lit-from-within look. Illuminators can be used in the same way as highlighters, but they are typically more reflective and can sometimes be more intense.
4. Strobe Highlight
A strobe highlight is a type of highlighter that is designed to catch light at different angles. This creates a multi-dimensional effect that can make your skin look more alive and vibrant. Strobe highlighters often have a subtle shimmer and are perfect for those who want a natural, yet noticeable glow.
5. Pop Highlight
A pop highlight is a bold, intense highlighter that is used to make a statement. It is typically applied to the highest points of the face, such as the cheekbones and brow bone, to create a striking, attention-grabbing look.
6. Sheen
Sheen refers to the light-reflecting quality of a product. In the context of makeup, sheen is often associated with highlighters and illuminators. Products with a high sheen can give your skin a dewy, glowing appearance.
7. Shimmer
Shimmer is the sparkle or glitter that is visible on a product’s surface. Highlighters and illuminators often contain shimmer to create a sparkling, reflective effect. The size and type of shimmer can vary, from fine, subtle shimmer to chunky, glittery shimmer.
Applying Makeup Highlights
Now that you’re familiar with the terms, it’s time to learn how to apply makeup highlights. Here are some tips to help you get started:
- Choose the Right Product: Depending on the look you’re going for, choose a highlighter, illuminator, or strobe highlight.
- Use a Brush or Sponge: Apply the product using a brush or sponge for a seamless, natural finish.
- Apply to High Points: Focus on applying the product to the highest points of your face, such as the cheekbones, forehead, and bridge of the nose.
- Blend, Blend, Blend: Always blend the product well to avoid any harsh lines or streaks.
- Build Gradually: Start with a light application and build up the intensity as needed.
By understanding the terms and techniques for makeup highlighting, you’ll be well on your way to achieving a radiant, glowing complexion. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different products and techniques to find what works best for you.