Makeup Style of the Week 6/17/2010 - Creme Highlighter

This image was taken behind the scenes at a Christian Dior runway show.  I was inspired when I came across the image on the  Vogue Paris website.  As such, I thought it would be fitting to write about creme highlighter as it is a staple for spring and summer beauty.  This summer I have been using Mary Kay's limited edition cream highlighter, but I just learned it is sold out.  Another option I recommend is the multiple bronzer stick by Nars in shade Copacabana.  No matter which highlighter you use, make sure it has shimmer to reflect light.  

The face has natural "areas of highlight" or places where the reflection of light is pleasing to the eye.  Two of the areas of highlight are:  a) under the browbone (from the arch toward the temple) and b) at the upper portion of the cheekbone moving toward the temple.  

I usually connect these two areas of highlight to create a "V" formation.  As a makeup artist, I must know the angles and proportions of the human body.  These proportions are made up of many ovals and triangles.  Hence, when I sculpt a face, I try to view it as a series of triangles and ovals; triangles for symmetry and balance - ovals for softened edges.  

After applying your foundation (before powder setting) using your ring finger, tap the creme highlighter gently onto the areas of highlight in a "V" formation.  Starting at your temple, dot upwards toward the browbone, stopping at the arch.  Beginning at your temple again, dot down toward the nose, staying high on the cheekbone (you should not be under the eye in the recessed area, but on the bone) stopping halfway from your temple to your nostril.  The product should make small ovals from your fingerprint.  Now go back and gently blend the ovals together by tapping lightly on the edges of the ovals you made.  Set your look with a finishing powder such as Makeup Forever's HD Microfinish Powder.  

To achieve this model's warm cheek, I recommend Mary Kay's mineral cheek color in Sparkling Cider.

Questions?  Hit me up at Natalie@ave42.com or just leave a comment below!  

Cheers!