Finding the perfect highlighter that gives you a radiant glow without breaking the bank is possible with the best drugstore options available. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the top 18 best highlighter drugstore products that offer incredible quality, impressive pigmentation, and budget-friendly prices. Let’s explore the best options that cater to various skin tones and preferences.

Why Opt for Drugstore Highlighters?

Drugstore highlighters have gained a reputation for delivering high-quality results comparable to high-end brands. Here’s why they’re a smart choice:

  • Affordability: Drugstore highlighters are much more budget-friendly compared to high-end brands, allowing you to achieve a radiant glow without breaking the bank.
  • Accessibility: These products are widely available at local pharmacies, big-box stores, and online retailers, making them easy to find and purchase.
  • Quality: Many drugstore brands offer high-quality formulas that rival more expensive products, providing excellent pigmentation and longevity.
  • Variety: Drugstore brands often have a wide range of highlighter shades and finishes, catering to various skin tones and preferences.
  • Innovation: Drugstore brands frequently update their product lines with the latest beauty trends and technologies, ensuring you have access to the newest innovations in makeup.
  • Cruelty-Free Options: Many drugstore brands now offer cruelty-free highlighters, making it easier to make ethical beauty choices without compromising on quality or price.

Overall, drugstore highlighters provide an excellent balance of cost, quality, and convenience, making them a great choice for anyone looking to enhance their makeup collection.

Top 20 Best Drugstore Highlighters

1. Maybelline Master Chrome Highlighter

Maybelline Master Chrome Highlighting Powder 100 Oro Fundido 0.28 oz

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Maybelline Master Chrome Highlighter is a popular drugstore highlighter known for its high-quality performance and affordability. Here are some key features and benefits:

  • Intense Pigmentation: The Master Chrome Highlighter offers a bold, metallic glow with just one swipe, providing a high-impact finish that’s perfect for creating a radiant look.
  • Smooth Application: The formula is finely milled, ensuring a smooth and even application. It blends effortlessly into the skin, preventing any patchiness.
  • Versatile Shades: Available in several shades, such as Molten Gold and Molten Rose Gold, it caters to different skin tones and preferences, allowing you to find the perfect match for your complexion.
  • Buildable: While it provides intense pigmentation, the product is also buildable, allowing you to customize the intensity of your glow, from a subtle shimmer to a blinding highlight.
  • Affordable: Priced reasonably, the Master Chrome Highlighter delivers professional-quality results at a fraction of the cost of high-end brands, making it a favorite among beauty enthusiasts on a budget.
  • Long-Lasting: The highlighter is designed to stay put throughout the day, ensuring your glow lasts from morning to night without the need for frequent touch-ups.

This amazing highlighter offers a striking glow that’s perfect for both day and night looks.

2. Wet n Wild MegaGlo Highlighting Powder

Wet n Wild MegaGlo Highlighting Powder

Rating: 4.5 out of 5.

Wet n Wild MegaGlo Highlighting Powder is another highly regarded drugstore highlighter known for its excellent quality and budget-friendly price. Here are its standout features and benefits:

  • Highly Pigmented: The MegaGlo Highlighting Powder provides a radiant and luminous glow with just one application, delivering a bright and reflective finish.
  • Silky Texture: The formula is smooth and blendable, ensuring it glides effortlessly onto the skin for an even and flawless application.
  • Variety of Shades: Available in a range of shades, including popular options like Precious Petals and Blossom Glow, it caters to various skin tones and makeup looks.
  • Buildable Coverage: The product offers buildable coverage, allowing you to layer it for a more intense highlight or keep it subtle for a natural glow.
  • Long-Wearing: Designed to last throughout the day, the MegaGlo Highlighting Powder maintains its shine without fading or requiring frequent touch-ups.
  • Cruelty-Free: Wet n Wild is a cruelty-free brand, making this highlighter a great choice for those who prefer ethical beauty products.
  • Affordable: Priced affordably, the MegaGlo Highlighting Powder offers high-end performance at a fraction of the cost, making it accessible to a wide range of consumers.
  • Versatile Use: This highlighter can be used on the high points of the face, such as the cheekbones, brow bones, and the bridge of the nose, as well as on the body for an all-over glow.

The Wet n Wild MegaGlo Highlighting Powder is a favorite among makeup enthusiasts for its impressive performance, affordability, and wide shade range, making it a must-have in any makeup collection.

3. L’Oreal True Match Lumi Glow Amour Drops

Rating: 4.5 out of 5.

L’Oreal True Match Lumi Glow Amour Drops is a liquid highlighter that offers a radiant, customizable glow. Here are its key features and benefits:

  1. Customizable Glow: These liquid highlighter drops can be used alone for an intense highlight or mixed with foundation or moisturizer for a subtle, all-over radiance.
  2. Buildable Coverage: The formula is buildable, allowing you to layer the product for the desired intensity, from a soft glow to a bold, luminous shine.
  3. Blendable Formula: The liquid consistency makes it easy to blend into the skin, ensuring a seamless application that looks natural and smooth.
  4. Lightweight Feel: Despite its intense pigmentation, the product feels lightweight on the skin, making it comfortable for all-day wear.
  5. Variety of Shades: Available in multiple shades, such as Daybreak (a cool, iridescent glow) and Golden Hour (a warm, golden glow), it suits a variety of skin tones and undertones.
  6. Versatile Use: The drops can be applied to the high points of the face, like cheekbones, brow bones, and the bridge of the nose, as well as on the body for an all-over luminosity.
  7. Long-Lasting: The formula is designed to stay put throughout the day, providing a long-lasting glow that doesn’t require frequent touch-ups.
  8. Hydrating Ingredients: Infused with hydrating ingredients, it helps keep the skin looking fresh and dewy, without emphasizing texture or dryness.
  9. Affordable: As part of the drugstore category, these drops offer high-quality performance at a reasonable price, making them an accessible choice for achieving a professional-quality highlight.

The L’Oreal True Match Lumi Glow Amour Drops are a versatile and affordable option for anyone looking to add a radiant glow to their makeup routine, whether for a subtle, everyday look or a more dramatic, highlighted effect.

4. e.l.f. Baked Highlighter

Rating: 4 out of 5.

e.l.f. Baked Highlighter is a popular drugstore highlighter known for its affordability and impressive performance. Here are its key features and benefits:

  1. Natural Radiance: The Baked Highlighter provides a subtle, luminous glow that enhances your natural features without being too overpowering, perfect for everyday use.
  2. Smooth Application: The baked formula ensures a smooth and even application, gliding easily onto the skin without emphasizing texture or pores.
  3. Buildable Intensity: While it offers a soft, natural shine with one layer, the highlighter is buildable, allowing you to add more layers for a more intense, radiant finish.
  4. Versatile Shades: Available in shades like Moonlight Pearls and Blush Gems, it suits a variety of skin tones and can be used to highlight different parts of the face.
  5. Affordable: True to e.l.f.’s brand ethos, this highlighter is very budget-friendly, providing excellent quality at a low price point.
  6. Cruelty-Free and Vegan: e.l.f. is known for its commitment to cruelty-free and vegan products, making this highlighter an ethical choice for consumers.
  7. Long-Lasting Wear: The formula is designed to last throughout the day, maintaining its glow without needing frequent touch-ups.
  8. Multi-Use: Beyond highlighting the high points of the face, this product can also be used as an eyeshadow or to add a shimmer to the collarbones and shoulders for a cohesive glow.

The e.l.f. Baked Highlighter is a favorite among makeup enthusiasts for its natural-looking glow, buildable intensity, and wallet-friendly price, making it a great addition to any makeup collection.

5. Milani Strobelight Instant Glow Powder

Milani Strobelight Instant Glow Powder - Best Highlighter Drugstore

Rating: 4.5 out of 5.

Milani Strobelight Instant Glow Powder is a highly regarded drugstore highlighter that delivers a stunning glow. Here are its key features and benefits:

  1. Radiant Finish: The Strobelight Instant Glow Powder provides a beautiful, radiant finish that enhances the high points of the face for a luminous look.
  2. Smooth Application: The finely milled powder ensures a smooth, even application, blending seamlessly into the skin without appearing cakey or emphasizing texture.
  3. Buildable Coverage: The highlighter offers buildable coverage, allowing you to achieve anything from a subtle sheen to a bold, blinding highlight, depending on your preference.
  4. Variety of Shades: Available in a range of shades, such as Afterglow (soft gold) and Dayglow (champagne), it suits various skin tones and undertones, making it versatile for different makeup looks.
  5. Long-Lasting: The formula is designed to be long-wearing, maintaining its glow throughout the day without fading or requiring frequent touch-ups.
  6. Lightweight Feel: Despite its intense pigmentation, the powder feels lightweight on the skin, ensuring comfortable wear without feeling heavy or greasy.
  7. Affordable: As part of the drugstore category, the Strobelight Instant Glow Powder provides high-quality performance at an affordable price, making it accessible to a wide audience.
  8. Multi-Use: In addition to highlighting the high points of the face, this powder can also be used as an eyeshadow or to add a shimmer to the body, such as the collarbones and shoulders, for an all-over glow.
  9. Cruelty-Free: Milani is a cruelty-free brand, ensuring that their products are not tested on animals, making this highlighter an ethical choice for consumers.

The Milani Strobelight Instant Glow Powder is a favorite among beauty enthusiasts for its radiant finish, buildable intensity, and affordable price, making it a must-have for achieving a luminous, glowing complexion.

6. Physicians Formula Butter Highlighter

Physicians Formula Butter Highlighter - Best Highlighter Drugstore

Rating: 4.5 out of 5.

Physicians Formula Butter Highlighter is a popular drugstore highlighter known for its luxurious texture and radiant finish. Here are its key features and benefits:

  1. Creamy Texture: The Butter Highlighter has a unique, buttery texture that blends seamlessly into the skin, providing a smooth and even application.
  2. Intense Pigmentation: It delivers a high-impact, luminous glow with just one swipe, offering a radiant finish that enhances the high points of your face.
  3. Buildable Coverage: The formula is buildable, allowing you to customize the intensity of your highlight, from a subtle shimmer to a bold, blinding glow.
  4. Variety of Shades: Available in several shades, including Pearl, Champagne, and Rose Gold, it caters to various skin tones and preferences, ensuring you can find the perfect match.
  5. Long-Lasting Wear: Designed to stay put throughout the day, the Butter Highlighter maintains its glow without fading or requiring frequent touch-ups.
  6. Hydrating Ingredients: Infused with murumuru butter, cupuaçu butter, and tucuma butter, it provides a nourishing and hydrating effect, leaving your skin looking healthy and radiant.
  7. Lightweight Feel: Despite its rich, creamy texture, the highlighter feels lightweight on the skin, ensuring comfortable wear without feeling heavy or greasy.
  8. Cruelty-Free and Hypoallergenic: Physicians Formula is committed to creating cruelty-free products that are also hypoallergenic, making this highlighter suitable for sensitive skin types.
  9. Multi-Use: This versatile highlighter can be applied to the cheekbones, brow bones, bridge of the nose, and even as an eyeshadow, providing a cohesive glow to your makeup look.
  10. Affordable: As a drugstore product, the Butter Highlighter offers high-end quality at an affordable price, making it a great addition to any makeup collection without breaking the bank.

The Physicians Formula Butter Highlighter is beloved for its luxurious texture, intense glow, and skin-friendly ingredients, making it a standout choice for achieving a radiant, dewy complexion.

7. Revlon PhotoReady Insta-Fix Highlighting Stick

Rating: 4.5 out of 5.

Revlon PhotoReady Insta-Fix Highlighting Stick is a convenient and versatile drugstore highlighter that delivers a radiant glow. Here are its key features and benefits:

  1. Easy Application: The stick format allows for precise and effortless application, making it ideal for on-the-go touch-ups and quick makeup routines.
  2. Creamy Texture: The formula has a creamy consistency that glides smoothly onto the skin, ensuring a seamless and even blend without emphasizing texture or pores.
  3. Buildable Coverage: This highlighter provides buildable coverage, allowing you to achieve anything from a subtle, natural glow to a more intense, luminous finish.
  4. Natural Radiance: The Insta-Fix Highlighting Stick offers a natural, dewy finish that enhances your features with a soft, radiant glow, perfect for everyday wear.
  5. Variety of Shades: Available in shades like Pink Light and Gold Light, it caters to different skin tones and undertones, ensuring a suitable option for various complexions.
  6. Portable Design: The compact and portable stick design makes it easy to carry in your makeup bag or purse, allowing for convenient touch-ups throughout the day.
  7. Long-Lasting Wear: Designed to last, the highlighter maintains its glow for hours without fading, ensuring your makeup stays fresh and luminous all day.
  8. Lightweight Feel: Despite its creamy texture, the highlighter feels lightweight on the skin, providing comfortable wear without a greasy or heavy sensation.
  9. Versatile Use: This highlighting stick can be used on the high points of the face, such as cheekbones, brow bones, and the bridge of the nose, as well as on the body for an all-over glow.
  10. Affordable: As a drugstore product, the Insta-Fix Highlighting Stick offers high-quality performance at an affordable price, making it accessible to a wide range of consumers.

The Revlon PhotoReady Insta-Fix Highlighting Stick is a favorite for its ease of use, natural radiance, and portable design, making it a great addition to any makeup routine for a quick and effortless glow.

8. NYX Professional Makeup Born to Glow Liquid Illuminator

Rating: 4.5 out of 5.

NYX Professional Makeup Born to Glow Liquid Illuminator is a versatile and highly effective drugstore highlighter that provides a radiant, luminous finish. Here are its key features and benefits:

  1. Versatile Use: This liquid illuminator can be used as a highlighter on the high points of the face, mixed with foundation for an all-over glow, or applied as a base for a radiant complexion.
  2. Radiant Finish: The Born to Glow Liquid Illuminator delivers a beautiful, luminous finish that enhances your natural features with a subtle, dewy glow.
  3. Lightweight Formula: The lightweight, silky texture blends seamlessly into the skin without feeling heavy or greasy, ensuring a comfortable wear throughout the day.
  4. Buildable Coverage: The formula is buildable, allowing you to achieve a range of looks from a sheer, natural radiance to a more intense, high-impact shine.
  5. Variety of Shades: Available in shades like Sunbeam (pearl) and Gleam (golden), it caters to various skin tones and preferences, making it easy to find the perfect match for your complexion.
  6. Long-Lasting Wear: Designed to stay put, this liquid illuminator maintains its glow throughout the day without fading or requiring frequent touch-ups.
  7. Affordable: As part of the drugstore category, the Born to Glow Liquid Illuminator offers high-quality performance at an affordable price, making it accessible to a wide range of consumers.
  8. Cruelty-Free: NYX Professional Makeup is committed to creating cruelty-free products, ensuring that this highlighter is an ethical choice for beauty enthusiasts.
  9. Easy Application: The liquid formula is easy to apply and blend, whether you use your fingers, a makeup sponge, or a brush, providing flexibility in your makeup routine.
  10. Multi-Use: Beyond highlighting, this product can also be used on the body, such as the collarbones and shoulders, for an all-over glow, making it a versatile addition to your makeup collection.

The NYX Professional Makeup Born to Glow Liquid Illuminator is a favorite among makeup enthusiasts for its versatility, radiant finish, and affordability, making it an excellent choice for achieving a luminous, glowing complexion.

9. L’Oreal True Match Lumi Powder Glow Illuminator

Rating: 4.5 out of 5.

L’Oreal True Match Lumi Powder Glow Illuminator is a popular drugstore highlighter that provides a radiant, luminous finish. Here are its key features and benefits:

  1. Multi-Dimensional Glow: This powder highlighter features a blend of four complementary shades in one compact, allowing you to create a custom, multi-dimensional glow that enhances your natural features.
  2. Smooth Application: The finely milled powder formula ensures a smooth and even application, blending seamlessly into the skin for a natural, radiant finish.
  3. Buildable Coverage: The highlighter offers buildable coverage, allowing you to achieve anything from a subtle sheen to a bold, radiant highlight, depending on your preference.
  4. Variety of Shades: Available in several shade combinations, such as Rose (cool tones) and Golden (warm tones), it caters to different skin tones and undertones, making it easy to find a perfect match.
  5. Long-Lasting Wear: Designed to stay put throughout the day, the True Match Lumi Powder Glow Illuminator maintains its luminosity without fading or requiring frequent touch-ups.
  6. Versatile Use: This highlighter can be used on the high points of the face, such as cheekbones, brow bones, and the bridge of the nose, as well as on the body for an all-over glow. The individual shades can also be used as eyeshadows for a cohesive look.
  7. Affordable: As part of the drugstore category, this highlighter offers high-quality performance at an affordable price, making it accessible to a wide audience.
  8. Lightweight Feel: Despite its powder form, the product feels lightweight on the skin, ensuring comfortable wear without looking or feeling heavy.
  9. Luminous Finish: Infused with light-reflecting pigments, the True Match Lumi Powder Glow Illuminator imparts a luminous finish that catches the light beautifully, enhancing your natural radiance.
  10. Easy to Use: The compact design with a built-in mirror makes it easy to apply and touch up on the go, adding convenience to your makeup routine.

The L’Oreal True Match Lumi Powder Glow Illuminator is a favorite among beauty enthusiasts for its customizable glow, smooth application, and affordable price, making it a great addition to any makeup collection for achieving a radiant, luminous complexion.

10. Rimmel London Insta Strobing Highlighter

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Rimmel London Insta Strobing Highlighter is a versatile and affordable drugstore highlighter designed to give your skin a radiant, glowing finish. Here are its key features and benefits:

  1. Illuminating Finish: The Insta Strobing Highlighter provides a luminous, dewy glow that enhances your natural features, perfect for creating a fresh and radiant look.
  2. Lightweight Formula: The liquid formula is lightweight and easy to blend, ensuring a smooth application that feels comfortable on the skin without being greasy or heavy.
  3. Buildable Coverage: This highlighter offers buildable coverage, allowing you to achieve a subtle, natural glow or a more intense, striking highlight depending on your preference.
  4. Versatile Use: It can be used alone on the high points of the face, mixed with foundation or moisturizer for an all-over glow, or applied as a base for a radiant complexion.
  5. Long-Lasting Wear: The formula is designed to stay put throughout the day, maintaining its glow without fading or requiring frequent touch-ups.
  6. Easy Application: The liquid consistency makes it easy to apply and blend with your fingers, a makeup sponge, or a brush, providing flexibility in your makeup routine.
  7. Variety of Shades: Available in multiple shades, such as Gold Glow and Pink Glow, it caters to different skin tones and undertones, ensuring a perfect match for various complexions.
  8. Affordable: As part of the drugstore category, the Insta Strobing Highlighter offers high-quality performance at an affordable price, making it accessible to a wide range of consumers.
  9. Travel-Friendly: The compact and portable packaging makes it easy to carry in your makeup bag or purse, allowing for convenient touch-ups on the go.
  10. Multi-Use: Beyond highlighting the face, this product can also be used on the body, such as the collarbones and shoulders, for an all-over glow, making it a versatile addition to your makeup collection.

The Rimmel London Insta Strobing Highlighter is a favorite among makeup enthusiasts for its illuminating finish, lightweight formula, and affordability, making it a great choice for achieving a radiant, glowing complexion.

11. Catrice Cosmetics High Glow Mineral Highlighting Powder

Rating: 4.5 out of 5.
  • Finely Milled Minerals: The formula contains finely milled minerals that provide a smooth and silky texture, ensuring an even application.
  • Lightweight and Non-Greasy: The lightweight texture glides smoothly over the skin without leaving a heavy or greasy feel, suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
  • Natural Glow: Designed to capture and reflect light, this highlighter delivers a natural and healthy glow that enhances the high points of the face.
  • Buildable Effect: Allows you to adjust the intensity of the glow, from a subtle sheen with a light layer to a more dramatic effect with additional layers.
  • Long-Lasting: The High Glow Mineral Highlighting Powder maintains its luminous effect throughout the day without the need for constant reapplication.
  • Multi-Use: Besides using it on the high points of the face (cheekbones, bridge of the nose, Cupid’s bow, and brow bone), it can also be applied on the body, such as shoulders and décolletage, for an extra glow.
  • Suitable for All Occasions: From a subtle everyday look to a more intense evening makeup, this highlighter adapts to different styles and occasions.
  • Safe and Gentle Ingredients: Formulated with ingredients that minimize the risk of irritation, suitable for sensitive and allergy-prone skin.
  • Paraben-Free: For those concerned about potentially harmful ingredients, this highlighter is formulated without parabens.

12. Essence Pure Nude Highlighter

Essence Pure Nude Highlighter

Rating: 4.5 out of 5.

The Essence Pure Nude Highlighter is a fan-favorite product known for its ability to provide a subtle, natural glow. Ideal for those seeking a lit-from-within radiance, this highlighter offers a luminous finish without the heavy glitter or shimmer often found in other products. Below are the key characteristics that make this highlighter a staple in many makeup collections:

  • Baked Powder Formula: The baked powder formula ensures a smooth, blendable texture that applies effortlessly to the skin.
  • Lightweight and Buildable: The lightweight texture allows for buildable coverage, letting you achieve anything from a subtle sheen to a more pronounced glow without feeling heavy or cakey on the skin.
  • Natural Radiance: Designed to enhance your natural beauty, the Essence Pure Nude Highlighter gives a soft, radiant finish that looks natural and not overly glittery.
  • Universal Shade: The shade “Be My Highlight” is universally flattering and complements a wide range of skin tones, making it versatile and easy to use for everyone.
  • Effortless Application: Can be applied with a highlighter brush, fan brush, or even fingers. It blends seamlessly into the skin, ensuring a streak-free finish.
  • Multi-Use Product: Besides using it as a highlighter on the high points of the face (cheekbones, bridge of the nose, Cupid’s bow, and brow bone), it can also double as an eyeshadow or a subtle body shimmer.
  • Long-Lasting Glow: The highlighter’s long-wearing formula ensures that your glow lasts throughout the day, with minimal need for touch-ups.
  • Travel-Friendly: Its compact size makes it easy to carry in your makeup bag or purse, making it perfect for travel or touch-ups on the go.
  • Skin-Friendly Formula: The highlighter is dermatologically tested and formulated to be gentle on the skin, suitable for daily use.
  • Cruelty-Free: Essence is committed to being cruelty-free, ensuring that their products are not tested on animals.

The Essence Pure Nude Highlighter is a must-have for those looking to achieve a natural, radiant glow. Its blendable, lightweight formula, coupled with its long-lasting effect and universal shade, makes it an essential product for everyday makeup routines. Whether you are a makeup novice or a seasoned pro, this highlighter delivers a beautiful, luminous finish that enhances your natural beauty.

13. Almay Instant Glow Highlighting Duo

Rating: 4 out of 5.

The Almay Instant Glow Highlighting Duo is a versatile highlighter that offers both a cream and a powder formula in one convenient package. This dual-ended product allows you to achieve a customizable glow, from a subtle sheen to a more intense radiance. Perfect for on-the-go touch-ups, the Instant Glow Highlighting Duo provides a natural-looking luminosity suitable for all skin types.

  • Dual-Ended Design: One end features a cream highlighter, while the other end offers a powder highlighter. This combination allows for a variety of application techniques and finishes.
  • Smooth and Blendable: Both the cream and powder formulas are smooth and blendable, ensuring an even application that melts seamlessly into the skin.
  • Customizable Glow: The cream highlighter provides a dewy, fresh-faced glow, ideal for a natural, everyday look. The powder highlighter offers a more intense, buildable shimmer, perfect for evening or dramatic looks.
  • Natural Finish: Designed to enhance your natural beauty, the Almay Instant Glow Highlighting Duo gives a soft, radiant finish without appearing overly glittery or metallic.
  • Hypoallergenic: Formulated to be gentle on the skin, this highlighter is hypoallergenic and suitable for sensitive skin.
  • Dermatologist Tested: Almay is known for its commitment to creating products that are safe for all skin types, and the Instant Glow Highlighting Duo is dermatologist tested.
  • Fragrance-Free: This product is free from added fragrances, making it ideal for those with sensitive skin or allergies.
  • Cruelty-Free: Almay is committed to being cruelty-free, ensuring that their products are not tested on animals.

The Almay Instant Glow Highlighting Duo is a versatile and convenient product that offers both a cream and a powder highlighter in one. Its customizable glow, long-lasting wear, and skin-friendly formula make it a must-have for anyone looking to add a radiant touch to their makeup routine. Whether you prefer a subtle, everyday sheen or a more intense evening glow, this duo has you covered.

14. BH Cosmetics Spotlight Highlight 6 Color Palette

Rating: 4 out of 5.

The BH Cosmetics Spotlight Highlight 6 Color Palette is a versatile and richly pigmented highlighting palette that offers a range of six stunning shades. This palette is designed to help you achieve a radiant glow, whether you prefer a subtle shimmer or a bold, reflective highlight. Perfect for all skin tones and makeup styles, the Spotlight Highlight Palette is a must-have for anyone looking to enhance their natural beauty.

  • Richly Pigmented: Each shade in the palette is highly pigmented, ensuring vibrant color payoff with just one swipe.
  • Smooth and Blendable: The formula is smooth and blendable, making it easy to apply and layer for a seamless finish.
  • Lightweight: Despite its rich pigmentation, the texture remains lightweight on the skin, preventing any cakey or heavy feel.
  • Six Versatile Shades: The palette includes six versatile shades ranging from soft, pearly tones to bold, golden hues. This variety allows you to mix and match to create your perfect highlight.
  • Ethereal: A light, pearly white shade.
  • Dream: A soft, champagne gold.
  • Radiance: A warm, golden bronze.
  • Glow: A peachy pink with gold undertones.
  • Allure: A rose gold shade.
  • Vivid: A rich, golden hue.
  • Customizable Glow: Each shade can be used alone or layered to achieve a customizable glow, from a subtle daytime sheen to an intense, night-out highlight.
  • Blending Options: The shades blend effortlessly into the skin, allowing for a natural finish without harsh lines.
  • Long-Wearing Formula: The long-wearing formula ensures that your highlight remains vibrant and luminous throughout the day and night.
  • Skin-Friendly: Formulated to be gentle on the skin, the highlighters are suitable for all skin types.
  • Cruelty-Free: BH Cosmetics is committed to being cruelty-free, ensuring that their products are not tested on animals.
  • Vegan: The Spotlight Highlight Palette is vegan, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer vegan beauty products.

The BH Cosmetics Spotlight Highlight 6 Color Palette is an essential addition to any makeup lover’s collection. With its versatile shades, rich pigmentation, and smooth, blendable formula, it allows for endless highlighting possibilities. Whether you are aiming for a subtle daytime glow or a bold, evening shine, this palette has everything you need to illuminate your beauty.

15. Flower Beauty Shimmer & Strobe Highlighting Palette

Rating: 4.5 out of 5.

The Flower Beauty Shimmer & Strobe Highlighting Palette is a top-rated highlighter palette designed to deliver a luminous, glowing complexion. Created by Flower Beauty, a brand founded by actress Drew Barrymore, this palette offers three beautifully coordinated shades that cater to a variety of skin tones and makeup looks. Known for its smooth application and radiant finish, this palette is perfect for both beginners and experienced makeup enthusiasts.

  • Silky Smooth Texture: The highlighters in this palette have a silky smooth texture that glides effortlessly onto the skin, providing a seamless blend.
  • Lightweight and Comfortable: Despite its intense pigmentation, the formula remains lightweight and comfortable, preventing any cakey or heavy feel.
  • Micro-Pearl Shimmer: Infused with micro-pearls, the highlighters offer a soft, radiant glow without chunky glitter, ensuring a natural-looking finish.
  • Three Versatile Shades: The palette includes three versatile shades designed to complement a wide range of skin tones and occasions:
  • Pearl Shimmer: A light, champagne shade perfect for a subtle glow.
  • Gold Shimmer: A warm, golden shade ideal for adding a sun-kissed radiance.
  • Rose Shimmer: A rosy pink shade that adds a touch of blush-like luminosity.
  • Buildable Glow: Each shade can be applied lightly for a natural sheen or built up for a more intense, strobed effect, allowing for customizable luminosity.
  • Multi-Use: These highlighters are perfect for use on the high points of the face (cheekbones, bridge of the nose, Cupid’s bow, and brow bone) and can also be used as eyeshadows or body highlighters for an all-over glow.
  • Blending Options: The shades blend seamlessly into the skin, ensuring a natural finish without harsh lines.
  • Long-Lasting Wear: The long-lasting formula ensures that your highlight remains vibrant and luminous throughout the day and night, with minimal need for touch-ups.
  • Skin-Friendly: The formula is designed to be gentle on the skin, making it suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
  • Cruelty-Free: Flower Beauty is committed to being cruelty-free, ensuring that their products are not tested on animals.
  • Paraben-Free: The highlighters are formulated without parabens, making them a safer choice for those concerned about potential skin irritants.

The Flower Beauty Shimmer & Strobe Highlighting Palette is an essential addition to any makeup collection. With its versatile shades, smooth application, and radiant finish, it provides everything you need to create a glowing, illuminated complexion. Whether you’re going for a natural daytime look or a bold, evening shine, this palette delivers the perfect highlight for any occasion.

16. Revolution Beauty Vivid Baked Highlighter

Rating: 4.5 out of 5.

The Revolution Beauty Vivid Baked Highlighter is a standout product in the world of affordable beauty, known for its intense pigmentation and stunning glow. This highlighter offers a radiant finish that can be built up from a subtle sheen to a bold, luminous highlight. Ideal for all skin types, the Vivid Baked Highlighter is a must-have for those who love to add a touch of brilliance to their makeup look.

  • Baked Formula: The highlighter is created using a baking process, which results in a silky, smooth texture that glides effortlessly onto the skin.
  • Highly Pigmented: The baked formula ensures intense pigmentation, providing a vibrant glow with just one swipe.
  • Lightweight Feel: Despite its rich pigmentation, the formula remains lightweight on the skin, avoiding any heavy or cakey sensation.
  • Natural to Intense Glow: The highlighter can be applied lightly for a natural, everyday glow or built up for a more intense, strobe-like effect, offering versatility for different makeup looks.
  • Reflective Finish: Infused with light-reflecting particles, the Vivid Baked Highlighter delivers a beautiful, reflective finish that enhances the high points of the face.
  • Variety of Shades: Available in a range of shades to suit different skin tones and preferences. Popular shades include:
  • Golden Lights: A warm, golden hue perfect for a sun-kissed glow.
  • Peach Lights: A soft, peachy shade ideal for a subtle, rosy radiance.
  • Pink Lights: A delicate pink tone that adds a touch of blush-like luminosity.
  • Multi-Use Product: Besides highlighting the high points of the face (cheekbones, bridge of the nose, Cupid’s bow, and brow bone), the highlighter can also be used as an eyeshadow or applied to the body for an all-over shimmer.
  • Clear Lid: The clear lid allows you to easily see the shade inside, making it convenient to choose the right color for your look.
  • Skin-Friendly Formula: Formulated to be gentle on the skin, suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
  • Cruelty-Free: Revolution Beauty is committed to being cruelty-free, ensuring that their products are not tested on animals.
  • Vegan: The Vivid Baked Highlighter is vegan, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer vegan beauty products.

The Revolution Beauty Vivid Baked Highlighter is a fantastic addition to any makeup collection. With its intense pigmentation, smooth application, and versatile shades, it allows for endless highlighting possibilities. Whether you’re aiming for a subtle, everyday radiance or a bold, luminous shine, this highlighter delivers the perfect glow for any occasion.

17. CoverGirl TruBlend Super Stunner Hyper-Glow Highlighter

Rating: 4.5 out of 5.

The CoverGirl TruBlend Super Stunner Hyper-Glow Highlighter is designed to deliver a dazzling, radiant glow with a smooth and blendable formula. This highlighter provides a luminous finish that can be built from a subtle shimmer to a bold, striking highlight. Ideal for all skin tones, the Hyper-Glow Highlighter is perfect for adding a touch of brilliance to any makeup look.

  • Silky Smooth Texture: The highlighter boasts a silky smooth texture that glides effortlessly onto the skin, ensuring an even and flawless application.
  • Highly Pigmented: The formula is highly pigmented, offering vibrant color payoff with just one swipe.
  • Lightweight and Comfortable: Despite its intense glow, the highlighter remains lightweight and comfortable on the skin, avoiding any cakey or heavy feel.
  • Hyper-Glow Finish: Infused with ultra-fine, light-reflecting pearls, the highlighter delivers a hyper-glow finish that enhances the high points of the face with a radiant, luminous sheen.
  • Buildable Intensity: The highlighter allows for buildable coverage, making it easy to achieve anything from a natural, everyday glow to a bold, dramatic highlight.
  • Variety of Shades: Available in a range of shades to suit different skin tones and preferences. Popular shades include:
  • Gilded Glory: A warm, golden hue perfect for a sun-kissed glow.
  • Rose Quartz: A soft, rosy pink shade ideal for adding a touch of blush-like radiance.
  • Pearl Crush: A light, pearly shade perfect for a subtle, ethereal glow.
  • Multi-Use Product: Besides highlighting the high points of the face (cheekbones, bridge of the nose, Cupid’s bow, and brow bone), the highlighter can also be used as an eyeshadow or applied to the body for an all-over shimmer.
  • Sleek and Portable: The highlighter comes in a sleek, compact case that is easy to carry in a makeup bag or purse, making it perfect for on-the-go application.
  • Clear Lid: The clear lid allows you to easily see the shade inside, making it convenient to choose the right color for your look.
  • Skin-Friendly Formula: Formulated to be gentle on the skin, suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
  • Dermatologist Tested: Ensuring the product is safe for everyday use.
  • Cruelty-Free: CoverGirl is committed to being cruelty-free, ensuring that their products are not tested on animals.

The CoverGirl TruBlend Super Stunner Hyper-Glow Highlighter is a fantastic addition to any makeup collection. With its intense pigmentation, smooth application, and versatile shades, it allows for endless highlighting possibilities. Whether you’re aiming for a subtle, everyday radiance or a bold, luminous shine, this highlighter delivers the perfect glow for any occasion.

18. NYX Professional Makeup Duo Chromatic Illuminating Powder

Rating: 4 out of 5.

How to Choose the Best Drugstore Highlighter for Your Skin Tone

Choosing the right drugstore highlighter can elevate your makeup game by adding a radiant glow that enhances your natural features. Here’s how to pick the best one for your skin tone.

1. Understand Your Skin Tone

First, determine your skin tone, which generally falls into one of three categories: fair, medium, or deep. Knowing your skin tone is crucial in finding a highlighter that complements your complexion without looking too stark or too subtle.

2. Identify Your Undertone

Your undertone can be cool, warm, or neutral. Cool undertones have hints of blue or pink, warm undertones lean towards yellow or golden, and neutral undertones are a mix of both. Identifying your undertone will help in selecting a highlighter that enhances your natural glow.

3. Fair Skin Tones

For fair skin, highlighters in shades like pearl, icy silver, or soft champagne work best. These light, luminous shades blend seamlessly with fair skin, providing a natural-looking glow without appearing too intense.

4. Medium Skin Tones

Medium skin tones look best with highlighters in gold, peach, or rose gold shades. These colors add warmth and radiance, enhancing the natural tones of medium skin without overpowering it.

5. Deep Skin Tones

For deep skin tones, rich hues like bronze, copper, or deep gold are ideal. These shades stand out beautifully on deeper complexions, offering a striking, radiant finish that highlights the skin’s natural richness.

6. Test Before You Buy

Whenever possible, test the highlighter on your skin before purchasing. Drugstores often provide testers, so swatch a small amount on the back of your hand or your cheekbone to see how the shade complements your skin tone and undertone.

7. Consider the Formula

Highlighters come in various formulas, including powder, cream, and liquid. Powder highlighters are versatile and easy to use, making them great for beginners. Cream highlighters blend effortlessly into the skin for a dewy finish, while liquid highlighters offer a high-intensity glow and can be mixed with foundation for an all-over radiance.

8. Look for Buildable Coverage

Choose a highlighter with buildable coverage. This allows you to control the intensity of the glow, whether you prefer a subtle shimmer for everyday wear or a more dramatic highlight for special occasions.

9. Read Reviews

Check out reviews online to see how the highlighter performs on others with similar skin tones. Reviews can provide insights into the product’s longevity, blendability, and overall finish.

10. Budget-Friendly Options

Drugstore brands offer a wide range of affordable highlighters that do not compromise on quality. Brands like Maybelline, NYX, and Wet n Wild have popular highlighters that are highly rated and budget-friendly.

By considering your skin tone and undertone, testing different formulas, and reading reviews, you can find the perfect drugstore highlighter that will give you a beautiful, radiant glow.

Tips for Applying Highlighter Like a Pro

Mastering the art of applying highlighter can transform your makeup look, adding a radiant glow and enhancing your facial features. Here are some expert tips to help you apply highlighter like a pro:

1. Choose the Right Formula

Highlighters come in various forms, including powder, cream, and liquid. Powder highlighters are versatile and ideal for all skin types, providing a buildable glow. Cream highlighters blend seamlessly into the skin for a dewy finish, while liquid highlighters offer an intense glow and can be mixed with foundation for an all-over radiance. Choose the formula that best suits your skin type and desired finish.

2. Select the Perfect Shade

The right shade of highlighter can enhance your natural skin tone. For fair skin, opt for pearl or soft champagne shades. Medium skin tones look best with gold or peach highlighters. Deep skin tones can rock bronze or copper shades. Always swatch the highlighter before buying to ensure it complements your complexion.

3. Prep Your Skin

Prepping your skin is crucial for a flawless application. Start with a clean, moisturized face to create a smooth canvas. Applying a primer can also help the highlighter adhere better and last longer. For an extra glow, use a hydrating or illuminating primer.

4. Apply to the High Points of Your Face

Highlighter should be applied to the high points of your face where light naturally hits. These areas include the tops of your cheekbones, the bridge of your nose, the brow bone, the inner corners of your eyes, and the Cupid’s bow. Applying highlighter to these spots will enhance your facial structure and give you a luminous glow.

5. Use the Right Tools

Using the right tools can make a significant difference in the application. A fan brush is perfect for dusting powder highlighter on cheekbones. A small, dense brush works well for precise application on the brow bone and inner corners of the eyes. For cream and liquid highlighters, use your fingers or a damp makeup sponge to blend the product seamlessly into the skin.

6. Blend, Blend, Blend

Blending is key to achieving a natural-looking glow. Make sure to blend the edges of the highlighter well to avoid harsh lines. Use a clean brush or sponge to softly blend the highlighter into your skin and other makeup products.

7. Build Up the Intensity

Start with a light layer of highlighter and build up the intensity gradually. This allows you to control the amount of shine and avoid an overly dramatic look. If you want a more intense glow, layer different highlighter formulas, such as applying a cream highlighter first and topping it with a powder highlighter.

8. Highlight Your Body

Don’t forget about your body! Apply highlighter to your collarbones, shoulders, and even your legs for an all-over radiant look. Use a large, fluffy brush to dust highlighter on these areas, or mix liquid highlighter with your body lotion for a subtle glow.

9. Set Your Highlight

To ensure your highlight stays put all day, set it with a setting spray. This will lock in the product and give your skin a fresh, dewy finish.

10. Practice Makes Perfect

Like any makeup technique, practice makes perfect. Experiment with different formulas, shades, and application techniques to find what works best for you. Over time, you’ll develop your own method for achieving a professional-looking highlight.


Finding the best highlighter drugstore products can elevate your makeup game without the high price. From Maybelline Master Chrome to NYX Professional Makeup Duo Chromatic Illuminating Powder, these 18 options offer something for everyone. Remember to choose shades that complement your skin tone and use proper application techniques for the best results. Happy glowing!


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