When Was Highlighter Makeup Invented? A Look at the Shimmering Evolution

Introduction:Highlighter makeup, the magical touch that brings glow to the high points of your face, is now an essential in any makeup kit. But when did this beauty staple actually come into the scene? And how did the highlighter brush evolve to become the perfect tool for applying it? Let's dive into the history of highlighter makeup and its trusty companion, the highlighter brush, in a quick, fun, and illuminating journey!

1. The Origins of Highlighter Makeup

Highlighter makeup as we know it began its rise to popularity in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Before this, makeup primarily focused on foundation, blush, and bronzer to shape and color the face. The idea of adding “glow” or “shine” to enhance facial features was still pretty novel.

During this time, celebrities and makeup artists started experimenting with a “lit-from-within” glow on red carpets. Highlighter was initially used subtly, typically by mixing lighter, pearlescent shades into foundation or on specific high points of the face, like cheekbones and brow bones.

2. Highlighter's Boom in the 2010s

It wasn't until the early 2010s that highlighter truly became a mainstream beauty product. Beauty bloggers and influencers on platforms like Instagram and YouTube helped drive the trend, showcasing how highlighter could add a stunning glow in tutorials that reached millions. Makeup brands quickly picked up on the trend, creating specialized highlighter formulas in powders, creams, and even liquid forms to cater to different skin tones and textures.

3. The Evolution of the Highlighter Brush

As highlighter gained popularity, so did the need for precise application tools. Originally, makeup enthusiasts used any brush they had on hand, from blush brushes to eyeshadow brushes, but these often didn't provide the right look. The highlighter brush—typically a soft, fan-shaped or tapered brush—was developed to gently pick up product and evenly sweep it across the high points of the face.

Timeline of the Highlighter Brush:

• Early 2000s: Fan brushes were first recommended by makeup artists for applying subtle highlighter.

• Mid-2010s: Brands started making brushes specifically designed for highlighter, with soft bristles and unique shapes (like fan and dome-shaped brushes).

• Today: The highlighter brush has become essential in any makeup kit, with varieties tailored for different types of highlighter (powder, cream, and liquid).

4. The Different Types of Highlighter Brushes

• Fan Brush: Perfect for sweeping on powder highlighter for a natural finish.

• Tapered or Dome-Shaped Brush: Allows for more precise application, great for highlighting smaller areas like the nose or cupid's bow.

• Dense Brush: Provides a bold, metallic glow and works well with cream or liquid highlighters for an intense effect.

5. Why Highlighter Makeup Became a Must-Have

Highlighter has become more than a makeup trend—it's now a staple because of its versatility. It's easy to add a glow for a casual day out or to layer up for a glamorous night. With the right highlighter and brush, anyone can enhance their natural features, bringing out the beauty in their cheekbones, brow bones, nose bridge, and more.

6. Choosing the Right Highlighter and Brush for Your Skin

• Skin Tone Matters: Highlighters come in gold, champagne, pink, and silver shades. Choose a color that complements your undertone for the most natural effect.

• Brush Makes Perfect: For those new to highlighter, a soft fan brush offers a forgiving, buildable application, while a denser brush can help achieve a more intense glow.

Conclusion:Highlighter makeup has come a long way from its subtle start to the must-have glow product of today. Alongside it, the highlighter brush evolved from basic multipurpose tools to perfectly crafted designs that make application easy and precise. Whether you're a makeup newbie or a glow enthusiast, understanding the history of these beauty essentials helps you appreciate the artistry that goes into every shimmer and shine.