We put five highlighting powders to the test

Way to glow.

A touch of highlighter is possibly the easiest way to give your complexion a radiant glow. So it’s no surprise there’s an endless offering of highlighting powders on the market. To help you make your selection, we put a series of both old favourites and new products to the test.

Brand: RODIN Olio Lusso
Name: Mermaid Collection Luxury Illuminating Powder
From: mecca.com.au
Price: $73
Glow factor: Very high

First up, I’m a big fan of the packaging. This is a super fun compact with adorable mermaid detailing. As it’s a gel powder, it melts onto my skin and provides a silky, translucent and buildable finish. The formulation looks equally good sheer as it does layered on for an intense sheen. Add the fact it’s talc-free, and you’re onto a winner.

Rating: 5/5

Brand: NARS
Name: Albatross Highlighting Blush
From: mecca.com.au
Price: $55
Glow factor: Medium

NARS’ Albatross Highlighter needs no introduction. Having been a staple in my makeup bag for years now, I’m really yet to find a subtle highlighter that tops it. A touch of the powder to the cheek bones and cupid’s bow adds radiance to the face without being OTT, and I love that it’s sans glitter. You can also build this one up for a bolder shine, making it the perfect product for every look.

Rating: 5/5

Brand: theBalm
Name: Mary-Lou Manizer
From: adorebeauty.com.au
Price: $29.95
Glow factor: Very high

theBalm’s ‘Manizer’ range has a cult following, and for good reason. While a range of shades are available, the Mary-Lou Manizer is a champagne hue which packs a punch. The light-diffusing formula is super easy to apply and makes me look like a walking Instagram filter (in the best way possible). I’ll be using this product for years to come.

Rating: 5/5

Brand: Mecca Cosmetica
Name: Enlightened Lit From Within Powder
From: mecca.com.au
Price: $48
Glow factor: Medium

If you’re looking for a highlighter that adds both colour and shine to your cheeks, this is a popular option. The original shade is slightly more brown-toned than I’d usually opt for, and while I was worried I’d look a little muddy, the colour is far more subtle and bronze once on. All in all though, the sheen this one gives off isn’t super natural – in fact, it’s quite glittery. If you don’t mind people knowing your glow is man-made, it’s a top pick.

Rating: 4/5

Brand: Dior
Name: Diorskin Nude Luminizer Powder
From: davidjones.com
Price: $95
Glow factor: High

With six different shades, the Diorskin Nude Luminizer offers something for every skin tone. I use this product for the quality of the shimmering pigments (they are seriously luxe), and the touch of natural radiance it brings to any makeup look. While it’s a tad pricey (points lost here), it does come with a good quality kabuki brush included.

Rating: 3.5/5