Best Drugstore Highlighters for a Radiant Glow
A radiant, lit-from-within glow doesn’t have to come with a luxury price tag. Drugstore highlighters have come a long way in recent years, offering impressive pigment, smooth formulas, and long-lasting wear at an affordable price. Whether you prefer a subtle shimmer or a blinding glow, there’s a drugstore option for you.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best drugstore highlighters that deliver on glow, performance, and price—so you can shine bright without draining your wallet.
Why Highlighter Is a Must-Have
Highlighter is a key step in modern makeup routines. Applied to the high points of the face—like cheekbones, brow bones, and the bridge of the nose—it catches the light and enhances your features. The right highlighter can make your skin look healthier, younger, and more hydrated.
But with so many choices on the shelves, how do you know which drugstore highlighters are worth your money?
Let’s break it down.
1. Best Overall: Maybelline Master Chrome Metallic Highlighter
Why it’s great: This cult favorite has a buttery texture that glides on smoothly and blends beautifully into the skin. It delivers a reflective glow without chunky glitter and is buildable from a soft sheen to full-impact glam.
Best for: Medium to deep skin tones (especially the shade “Molten Gold”), but available in lighter options too.
2. Best for Subtle Glow: e.l.f. Halo Glow Highlighter Beauty Wand
Why it’s great: This liquid highlighter gives a natural, dewy finish perfect for everyday wear. The sponge-tip applicator allows for targeted application, and it layers well over foundation without disrupting it.
Best for: Normal to dry skin types who prefer a fresh, skin-like finish.
3. Best Cream Formula: NYX Born to Glow Liquid Illuminator
Why it’s great: Lightweight and multipurpose, this illuminator can be mixed with foundation or worn alone on high points for a radiant boost. It’s great for achieving that “glass skin” look on a budget.
Best for: Dry or mature skin, as the creamy formula won’t cling to texture.
4. Best for Fair Skin: Physicians Formula Butter Highlighter
Why it’s great: The mousse-like texture melts into the skin, providing a smooth, pearlescent finish without being chalky. The light shades are ideal for fair complexions and deliver a soft glow.
Best for: Fair to light skin tones, especially those with cool or neutral undertones.
5. Best Powder Option: Milani Strobelight Instant Glow Powder
Why it’s great: This finely milled powder offers an intense highlight without being glittery. It’s highly pigmented and available in a range of shades to complement all skin tones.
Best for: Oily or combination skin types looking for long wear.
6. Best Multitasker: Wet n Wild MegaGlo Highlighting Powder
Why it’s great: A long-time drugstore staple, this powder provides a radiant finish that rivals high-end products. It’s affordable, easy to apply, and available in various shades to suit different undertones.
Best for: All skin types, especially if you want maximum value for money.
Comparison Table: Top Drugstore Highlighters
| Product Name | Formula Type | Finish | Best For Skin Type | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maybelline Master Chrome | Powder | Metallic Glow | All Skin Types | $8–$10 |
| e.l.f. Halo Glow Wand | Liquid | Natural Dewy | Dry to Normal | $9–$10 |
| NYX Born to Glow Illuminator | Cream/Liquid | Luminous | Dry/Mature | $7–$9 |
| Physicians Formula Butter Highlighter | Creamy Mousse | Pearlescent | Fair/Light Skin | $10–$12 |
| Milani Strobelight Glow Powder | Powder | Intense Shine | Oily/Combo | $9–$11 |
| Wet n Wild MegaGlo Highlighting Powder | Powder | Radiant Glow | All Skin Types | $5–$7 |
How to Apply Highlighter for the Best Glow
Applying highlighter is about placement and blending. Here are simple steps to follow:
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Choose the right shade: Pick a highlighter that complements your skin tone—champagne for fair skin, gold for medium, and bronze or rose gold for deeper skin.
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Pick the right formula: Powders are great for oily skin, while creams and liquids work better for dry or textured skin.
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Use the right tools: Use a fan brush for powder highlighters and a damp sponge or fingertips for liquid and cream formulas.
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Apply strategically: Focus on high points—cheekbones, brow bone, inner corners of the eyes, bridge of the nose, and Cupid’s bow.
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Blend: Avoid harsh lines by blending well into your base makeup.
Bonus Tip: Match Your Base for a Flawless Finish
A radiant highlighter looks best when your base is smooth and well-blended. Choosing the right concealer and foundation plays a big role in that. For a seamless base, check out How to Choose the Right Concealer for Your Skin Tone—it can make all the difference in how your highlight pops.
FAQs About Drugstore Highlighters
Are drugstore highlighters as good as high-end ones?
Yes. Many drugstore highlighters use similar formulas and ingredients as high-end brands. Some even outperform luxury products in pigmentation and blendability.
How do I choose the right shade of highlighter?
Match your highlighter to your skin’s undertone. Fair skin works well with icy pinks and champagne; medium skin looks radiant in golds and peaches; deeper skin glows in bronze and copper tones.
Can I use highlighter without foundation?
Absolutely. Highlighter can be worn on bare skin for a fresh, natural glow. Just apply it to moisturized skin and blend with your fingers for a soft finish.
What’s better: powder or liquid highlighter?
It depends on your skin type and the look you’re going for. Powder is best for oily skin and dramatic glow. Liquid and cream highlighters are better for dry or mature skin and a dewy finish.
How can I make my highlighter last longer?
Apply highlighter over a setting spray or cream base, and always blend well. Setting your makeup with a translucent powder around the highlight (but not on it) can prevent transfer and help it last all day.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to spend a fortune to achieve a glowing, radiant complexion. With the variety and quality of drugstore highlighters available today, glowing skin is more accessible than ever. From creamy liquids to shimmering powders, there’s an affordable option for every skin tone and type.
Whether you’re heading out for a night on the town or just want to look a little more awake on a Monday morning, these highlighters deliver serious results at a fraction of the price. Keep experimenting, blending, and most importantly—have fun with your glow.
