What’s The Difference Between Bronzer & Highlighter? How To Apply Them, Their Benefits & More (2024)

Blushes doubling up as lip tints, lipsticks working as eyeshadows and other such makeup hacks can save you some extra bucks and who doesn’t want that! So while there are several multi-use makeup products, it’s important to know some key differences. For instance, a bronzer and a highlighter are not the same thing. So what’s the difference between bronzer and highlighter makeup, and how can one use both together? We decode everything there is to know on the bronzer vs highlighter topic.

How are bronzer and highlighter different?

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If you’re someone who likes to know all about the pretty sticks and creams they’re using on their face, here’s the deal. A bronzer and a highlighter serve different purposes in makeup application. Bronzer is used to create a sun-kissed look and add warmth to the skin, while highlighter is used to accentuate the high points of the face and create a glowing, luminous effect.

Using the wrong product in the wrong area can result in an unnatural or unflattering look. For example, using bronzer to highlight the cheekbones can make the face look muddy, while using highlighter to contour the face can make it look overly shiny. I bet some of you can instantly relate to that because we’ve all been there, at some point or the other.

Therefore, understanding the difference between bronzer and highlighter allows us to use them strategically for the purpose they’re made for. Now let’s break down both and learn everything about their application.

What is a bronzer and what is its purpose?

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• As the name suggests, a bronzer is meant to give you a bronzed or a sun-kissed look. It typically comes in a powder or cream form and is applied to areas of the face where the sun would naturally hit, such as the forehead, nose, cheeks, and chin.

• The purpose of bronzer in makeup is to add warmth and dimension to the face, creating a more natural, healthy-looking complexion. Bronzer can also be used to contour the face and create the appearance of sharper cheekbones or a more defined jawline.

• Just like most makeup products, a bronzer is also available in a variety of shades to suit different skin tones, from light to dark.

• When choosing a bronzer, it's important to select a shade that complements your natural skin tone to avoid a muddy or unnatural appearance.

What are the different options available in bronzers?

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There are powder, cream, liquid, and gel formulas available in the market when it comes to bronzers. Each formula has its own unique texture and finish, and choosing the right type of bronzer depends on personal preference and skin type. Here’s what you need to know about them:

1. Powder bronzers

Powder bronzers are the most popular type of bronzers and are suitable for all skin types, especially oily skin. They are easy to apply, blend seamlessly, and offer a matte or satin finish.

2. Cream bronzers

Cream bronzers have a more hydrating texture than powder bronzers and work well on dry skin types. They offer a natural, dewy finish and can be blended with fingers or a brush.

3. Liquid and gel bronzers

These are more lightweight and blendable than powder or cream bronzers. They offer a sheer, luminous finish and work well on all skin types. They are best applied with a sponge or a brush and can be used alone or mixed with foundation or moisturizer for an all-over glow.

How to choose the right bronzer for your skin tone?

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1. Consider your undertones

• If you have warm undertones, look for bronzers with yellow or golden undertones.

• If you have cool undertones, look for bronzers with pink or red undertones.

• For neutral undertones, choose a bronzer that has a balanced mix of warm and cool undertones.

2. Consider the intensity of the bronzer

• If you have fair skin, choose a bronzer that is one to two shades darker than your natural skin tone.

• For medium- or dark-toned skin, opt for a bronzer that is two to three shades darker than your natural skin tone.

• When trying out a new bronzer, start with a small amount and build up gradually to avoid an unnatural or overly dramatic effect.

What is a highlighter and what is its purpose?

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• Highlighter is meant to be applied to the high points of the face, such as the cheekbones, brow bone, bridge of the nose, and cupid's bow.

• In makeup, the purpose of a highlighter is to create a luminous, dewy effect and accentuate the features of the face.

• Highlighter reflects light and draws attention to specific areas of the face, making them appear more prominent and defined.

• It can also be used to create a more youthful and radiant appearance, as it gives the skin a healthy, natural glow.

What are the different options available in highlighters?

Read on to understand the different types of highlighters available and what would suit you the best.

1. Powder highlighters

Powder highlighters are the most common type of highlighter and are suitable for all skin types. They come in a variety of shades, from cool to warm tones, and are available in different finishes, such as matte, shimmer, and metallic.

2. Cream highlighters

Cream highlighters are ideal for those with dry skin types, as they provide hydration and a dewy finish. They blend seamlessly into the skin and offer a natural, lit-from-within glow.

3. Liquid highlighters

Liquid highlighters have a more lightweight texture than cream or powder highlighters, and are perfect for creating a subtle, natural glow. They can be mixed with foundation or moisturizer for an all-over radiance, or applied to specific areas of the face for targeted highlighting.

4. Stick highlighters

Stick highlighters are convenient and easy to use, and are perfect for on-the-go touch-ups.

How to choose the right highlighter for your skin tone?

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• Just as you would do while picking a bronzer, consider your undertones. If you have cool undertones, look for highlighters with pink or silver undertones.

• If you have warm undertones, look for highlighters with gold or bronze undertones.

• For neutral undertones, choose a highlighter that has a balanced mix of warm and cool undertones.

• It's also important to consider the intensity of the highlighter. If you have fair skin, choose a highlighter that is light and subtle.

• If you have medium or dark skin, opt for a highlighter that is more intense and has a deeper pigment.

Comparison of the purpose and effect of bronzer and highlighter

Bronzer and highlighter have distinct purposes and effects in makeup:

• While bronzer is used to create a sun-kissed, tanned effect, highlighter is used to create a luminous, dewy effect.

• Bronzer is typically applied to the perimeter of the face to add warmth and dimension, while highlighter is applied to the high points of the face to reflect light and create a more youthful, radiant appearance.

• Overall, bronzer is used to contour and add depth to the face, while highlighter is used to accentuate and bring forward certain features.

In which areas of the face are bronzer and highlighter applied?

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• Bronzer is typically applied to the forehead, temples, cheeks, and jawline to create a natural-looking tan and add depth to the face. It can also be applied lightly to the nose and chin to create a more balanced look.

• Highlighter, on the other hand, is applied to the high points of the face, such as the cheekbones, brow bone, bridge of the nose, and Cupid's bow to create a radiant, glowing effect. By applying highlighter to these areas, light is reflected off the skin, giving the illusion of a more lifted and defined appearance.

How to use bronzer and highlighter together for a complete makeup look

• To use bronzer and highlighter together for a complete makeup look, start by applying bronzer to the perimeter of the face, focusing on the areas where the sun would naturally hit.

• Blend the bronzer outwards towards the hairline and jawline to create a natural-looking effect.

• Next, apply highlighter to the high points of the face, blending it outwards towards the hairline and temples. The combination of bronzer and highlighter creates a beautiful, balanced effect, adding warmth and depth to the face while also creating a luminous, radiant glow.

• It's important to blend both products well to avoid any harsh lines or patches of colour.

Additionally, it's important to choose shades that complement each other and your skin tone for the most natural-looking effect.

Top bronzers to include in your makeup kit

1. Benefit Cosmetics Hoola Matte Bronzer

© Nykaa

Looking for a trusted buy? This cult-favourite needs no introduction and is known for lending the most natural-looking depth to the face.

Buy it here

2. MAKEUP STUDIO Bronzing Powder

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If the idea is to get the ultimate ‘bronzed’ look, this fabulous product should be a no-brainer. Additionally, there’s also a hint of shine that will lend that ‘sunkissed’ glow which you see in celebs’ selfies.

Buy it here

3. Kiko Milano Flawless Fusion Bronzer Powder

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The ultra-fine texture is pleasantly silky to the touch. Even the contour looks natural and even on the skin. What’s not to love, right?

Buy it here

Top highlighters to include in your makeup kit

1. Maybelline New York Master Chrome Metallic Highlighter

© Nykaa

Hands down one of the best drugstore highlighters suited for Indian skin type, this affordable highlighter is highly pigmented and blends well on the skin.

Buy it here

2. Too Faced Diamond Light Highlighter

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Though it’s priced higher than its contemporary products, a dewy sheen along with an iridescent glow makes this highlighter one of the most prized possessions for a makeup lover.

Buy it here

3. Moira Sun Glow Face & Body Highlighter

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This one is a creamy powder formula with natural oils like sweet almonds, coconut, sunflower, and vitamin E to deliver instant luminosity.

Buy it here

Consider your desired makeup look, your skin tone, and your overall makeup routine to determine whether a bronzer, a highlighter, or both would be the best fit for you.

Lead image credit: Instagram/janhvikapoor and Instagram/deepikapadukone

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