The Glow Getters
Let’s face it, we all need that helping hand when it comes to getting that glow. That natural, “lit from within” glow doesn’t just happen – it’s created. Of course good skincare, sleep and the like means you can probably get away with using less products, but there’s no doubt that highlighters, glow primers and all things that promote radiance are quite literally life-savers.
Whether it’s all-out shimmer or something a bit more subtle, I’ve got some favourites that help me get the glow.
The Glow Primers
I’ve only got into glow primers, or better known as illuminating primers recently, and I am now somewhat addicted. Gone are the days when these products made you look like a bit of a disco ball. In fact, clever technology means that many a glow primer has a soft focus effect as well as skincare properties, helping to make your skin look naturally radiant.
For something with a slight tinge and more of a shimmer, my favourites are the Charlotte Tilbury Wonderglow and the Becca Backlight Priming Filter. Both have a soft, peachy hue and contain light-diffusing particles which instantly awaken tired and dull skin. They have a creamy formula which adds a subtle warmth without really altering the colour of my foundation. The finish is more pearlescent than glittery and both are non-greasy – that’s a winner in my opinion.
But if shimmer is not your thing, then the YSL Touche Eclat Blur Primer is a fantastic alternative. I spoke about this primer here and whilst it also contains light-diffusing particles, it has a serum type texture and my preferred option if I want to ensure my makeup lasts longer. Another favourite is the Tom Ford Illuminating Primer. This is a white creamy formula which applies clear but leaves a subtle, pearlescent finish. This primer is makeup and skincare in one, providing an extra layer of hydration when I need it. My skin looks plump and this works well at helping my foundation last longer as well as brightening my complexion.
Skincare for the Body that Shimmers
Glowing skin doesn’t just translate into makeup, but the body too. I often forget that but I recently got to try the Rosie for Autograph Divine Body Scrub and Divine Body Cream. * I have been taking the extra time to slather this stuff on and like the name suggests, this range is divine.
Infused with evening primrose seed, almond oil and coconut oil, the Divine Body Scrub leaves my skin with a subtle sheen and prepped for moisturiser. Used with the Divine Body Cream, and the combination is heavenly. This body cream is buttery, creamy and luxurious. The light-reflecting particles is a stand-out feature for me, with my skin quite literally shimmering where it catches the light.
It’s all about the flecks of gold
Anything with flecks of gold always gets me excited. This Rosie for Autograph duo from the bath and body range as well as the Charlotte Tilbury Wonderglow and the Becca Backlight Priming Filter are perfect for that.
The highlighters
Highlighters are an old-time favourite of mine for that extra pop of shimmer and radiance.
A swipe across the cheekbones and the across the bridge of the nose makes all the difference. For extra dewiness, I find cream formulas are best. Read on to find out which highlighters I’ve been loving.
I’ve recently been coveting the Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Beauty Light Wand in Spotlight. Its creamy formula and the easy sponge applicator leaves a gorgeous, ethereal glow to the skin. It reminds me of a liquid version of the highlight from the Film Star Bronze & Glow, but with a slight rose gold undertone. Either way this stuff is universally flattering and I can’t believe it took me this long to get it!
I’m also loving the Rosie for Autograph Starstruck Highlighter* in the quite aptly named, Get The Glow. This is a cream stick so it has a drier formula. I think it’s a great dupe for Nars The Multiple in Copacabana at a fraction of the cost but similar finish and quality. Unlike the typical golden shimmers I go for, this Rosie for Autograph highlighter has a frosted tone. However, it’s still very flattering and leaves a lovely luminous shine where applied.
Of course I can’t be without a powder highlight. I caved in and gave in to the Fenty Beauty hype and picked up their Killawatt Freestyle Higlighter Duo in Mean Money and Hu$tla Baby. I like that there is a slightly more toned down warmer highlight and then one that packs a punch. This duo works beautifully together as well as individually and the golden undertone suits my skin tone perfectly.
I’m so glad I have these items to hand, helping me to achieve natural, luminous and radiant skin in an instant. Seriously, where would I be without them? Are you into that look too or do you go for more matte finishes? I’d love to know your thoughts.
Also, if you have any recommendations on some more glow primers, please let me know as I’d love to add to my collection. x