If you’ve been scrolling through beauty feeds or watching makeup tutorials lately, you’ve probably seen the buzz around Rare Beauty’s Highlighter. Launched by Selena Gomez’s cult-favorite brand, Rare Beauty promises a natural, radiant glow without the overwhelming shimmer or cakey finish that some highlighters deliver. But does it live up to the hype? In this review, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Rare Beauty’s highlighter — from its formula and application to who it suits best.
What Makes Rare Beauty Highlighter Different?
Rare Beauty emphasizes a “skin-first” approach to makeup, aiming to enhance your natural beauty rather than mask it. Their highlighter follows this philosophy with a lightweight, blendable formula that aims to create a radiant, dewy glow rather than an intense sparkle. Unlike many highlighters that can look glittery or artificial, Rare Beauty’s highlighter is designed to look like a subtle, healthy sheen on the skin.
The formula is buildable, so you can achieve anything from a soft glow to a more pronounced shine, depending on your preference. It’s also formulated to be long-lasting without emphasizing texture or pores.
Texture and Shades
The Rare Beauty highlighter has a silky, creamy texture that glides smoothly onto the skin. It blends effortlessly, which makes it beginner-friendly and easy to use for quick touch-ups throughout the day.
It’s available in a few universally flattering shades, each designed to complement a wide range of skin tones. The shades lean toward warm champagne, soft gold, and subtle rose hues — all aimed at delivering a natural glow rather than dramatic shimmer.
Application Tips for the Best Glow
For those new to liquid or cream highlighters, here’s how to get the most out of Rare Beauty’s product:
- Apply with fingers or a damp beauty sponge for a sheer, natural finish. The warmth from your fingers helps melt the product into your skin.
- Build gradually by layering to achieve your desired intensity.
- Use sparingly on textured areas like enlarged pores or acne scars to avoid highlighting imperfections.
- For a radiant look, apply on the high points of your face: tops of cheekbones, brow bones, bridge of the nose, and cupid’s bow.
How Does It Perform?
Rare Beauty’s highlighter scores high marks for its natural finish and comfortable wear. Many users report that it doesn’t feel heavy or sticky and that it holds up well throughout the day, even in humid conditions. The glow looks fresh and skin-like rather than glittery, making it suitable for everyday use.
The buildable formula means you can customize your glow, and the shade range offers enough versatility to suit a broad spectrum of complexions.
Who Should Try Rare Beauty Highlighter?
If you’re someone who loves a subtle, natural glow instead of an intense shimmer, this highlighter is a great choice. It’s also ideal for:
- Everyday makeup lovers who want a healthy-looking radiance.
- Those with normal to dry skin who want a dewy finish.
- Fans of clean beauty since Rare Beauty focuses on cruelty-free and thoughtful formulations.
- Beginners who want an easy-to-apply, forgiving product.
If you prefer a bold, high-shine or glitter effect, you might find this highlighter too understated.
Final Verdict: Is It Worth the Hype?
Rare Beauty’s highlighter lives up to its promise of delivering a radiant, skin-like glow without the heaviness or shimmer overload. Its lightweight formula, versatile shades, and ease of application make it a solid addition to many makeup routines. While it may not satisfy those looking for an ultra-glam or dramatic sparkle, it shines brightest for everyday wearers seeking a natural and youthful finish.
If you want a reliable highlighter that enhances your skin’s natural beauty and gives you that coveted soft glow, Rare Beauty’s highlighter is definitely worth trying.
Have you tried Rare Beauty’s highlighter yet? What’s your favorite way to wear it?