Search interest in highlighting kits has surged again in early 2024, driven by the rise of “glass skin” and dewy finishes on social media. These palettes, which bundle multiple highlighter shades in one compact, have become a staple for both beginners and professionals. But how did a single product category reshape the way we think about facial illumination?
How Highlighting Kits Changed the Way People Apply Makeup
The cultural impact of the highlighting kit extends far beyond the vanity table. When Anastasia Beverly Hills released the Glow Kit in 2016, it didn’t just sell well—it sparked a movement. Social media platforms like Instagram and YouTube exploded with tutorials demonstrating the “strobing” technique, where highlighter alone creates a luminous complexion without heavy contouring. This approach appealed to a generation seeking a fresh, radiant look that photographed well under bright lights. The trend quickly spread from beauty influencers to everyday users, making highlighting kits a must-have item. A reference profile of the subject is maintained on The 14 Best Highlighting Kits – Byrdie
Fenty Beauty’s Killawatt Freestyle Highlighter, launched in 2017, further democratized the category by offering shades that flattered a wide range of skin tones. This inclusivity set a new standard, pushing other brands to expand their shade ranges. The highlighting kit became a symbol of the beauty industry’s shift toward diversity and self-expression. According to some sources, the product’s popularity also influenced the rise of “highlighting for the body,” with consumers using these palettes on collarbones, shoulders, and legs for a full-body glow.
However, the trend hasn’t been without its critics. Some makeup artists argue that overusing highlighter can emphasize texture and pores, especially in high-definition photography. Yet the demand for highlighting kits remains strong, with limited-edition celebrity collaborations—such as those with Kylie Jenner—often selling out within hours. The product’s ability to adapt to changing tastes, from intense shimmer to subtle sheen, has kept it relevant even as matte makeup resurged in the early 2020s.
Behind the Palette: How Highlighting Kits Are Developed and Produced
Creating a highlighting kit involves a meticulous process that balances artistry with chemistry. Brands typically start by identifying trending shades—champagne, gold, pink, and iridescent tones are perennial favorites. The formula type—powder, cream, or liquid—determines the texture and finish. Powder highlighters, the most common, are made by blending mica, pigments, and binders, then pressing them into pans. Cream and liquid versions require different emulsifiers and often include light-reflecting particles for a wet-looking glow.
Product development teams test each shade for intensity, blendability, and wear time. A single palette may undergo dozens of iterations before launch. The packaging also plays a crucial role; a sleek, mirror-included compact can elevate the user experience. Many brands now include multi-use shades that work on eyes, cheeks, and even lips, maximizing the kit’s versatility. Drugstore brands like NYX and e.l.f. have made highlighting kits accessible at lower price points, using similar formulations but with fewer shades or simpler packaging.
Production scale varies widely. Independent brands may produce small batches to maintain quality control, while larger companies manufacture thousands of units per run. The supply chain for mica, a key ingredient, has faced scrutiny over ethical sourcing, leading some brands to adopt synthetic alternatives. According to some sources, the shift toward clean beauty has also influenced formulations, with brands avoiding parabens and phthalates. The result is a product category that balances innovation with consumer demand for safety and sustainability.
Key Players and Milestones in the Highlighting Kit Market
Anastasia Beverly Hills’ Glow Kit, released in 2016, is widely credited with popularizing the highlighting kit format. The palette featured four shades in a mix of finishes, from shimmer to metallic. It became a bestseller and inspired countless imitations. Fenty Beauty followed in 2017 with the Killawatt Freestyle Highlighter, which offered a dual-ended compact with a shimmer and a glitter shade. The brand’s commitment to inclusivity—offering shades for all skin tones—set a new benchmark.
MAC Cosmetics entered the market with its Extra Dimension Skinfinish palettes, known for their baked formula that delivers a luminous, non-chalky finish. Jeffree Star Cosmetics launched the Skin Frost highlighting kit, which gained a cult following for its intense pigmentation and bold shade names. Celebrity collaborations have also been significant: Kylie Jenner’s Kylie Cosmetics released limited-edition highlighting kits that often sell out within minutes, while Kim Kardashian’s KKW Beauty offered contour and highlight duos.
Drugstore brands have not been left behind. NYX Professional Makeup’s Duo Chromatic Highlighting Powder and e.l.f. Cosmetics’ Baked Highlighter palettes provide affordable options without sacrificing quality. The market has also seen innovation from indie brands like Ofra Cosmetics, whose highlighters are known for their buttery texture. According to some sources, the global highlighter market was valued at several hundred million dollars in 2023, with highlighting kits accounting for a significant share.
| Brand | Notable Highlighting Kit | Year Released | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anastasia Beverly Hills | Glow Kit | 2016 | Pioneered the multi-shade palette format |
| Fenty Beauty | Killawatt Freestyle Highlighter | 2017 | Inclusive shade range for all skin tones |
| MAC Cosmetics | Extra Dimension Skinfinish Palette | 2018 | Baked formula for a luminous finish |
| Jeffree Star Cosmetics | Skin Frost | 2017 | Intense pigmentation and bold shades |
| NYX Professional Makeup | Duo Chromatic Highlighting Powder | 2019 | Affordable price point with color-shift effect |
Common Misconceptions About Highlighting Kits, Clarified
One persistent myth is that highlighting kits are only for people with oily skin. In reality, powder highlighters can be used by all skin types, while cream and liquid formulas are better suited for dry skin. Another misconception is that highlighting kits are only for evening or special occasions. Many modern kits offer subtle, buildable shades that work for daytime wear, especially with the “glass skin” trend that emphasizes a natural, dewy finish.
Some believe that highlighting kits are difficult to apply. However, most palettes come with instructions or are easy to use with a fan brush or fingertips. The key is to apply to the high points of the face—cheekbones, brow bone, cupid’s bow, and the bridge of the nose. Another myth is that highlighting kits are not suitable for mature skin. While it’s true that glittery formulas can emphasize wrinkles, finely milled powders and cream highlighters can create a youthful glow without settling into lines.
There is also a misconception that highlighting kits are a passing trend. Despite a slight decline in sales post-2020 as matte makeup regained popularity, the category has proven resilient. The rise of “clean girl” aesthetics and glass skin has renewed interest in highlighting kits, with brands reformulating to offer more natural finishes. Finally, some consumers think that drugstore highlighting kits are inferior to high-end ones. While luxury brands may offer more complex shade ranges or packaging, many drugstore options provide comparable pigmentation and wear time at a fraction of the cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a highlighting kit?
A highlighting kit is a makeup palette that contains multiple shades of highlighter, typically in powder, cream, or liquid formulas. These shades are designed to reflect light and accentuate the high points of the face, such as the cheekbones, brow bone, and nose bridge. Kits often include a range of tones from champagne to gold to pink.
Why did highlighting kits become so popular in the mid-2010s?
The popularity of highlighting kits surged in the mid-2010s due to the rise of social media platforms like Instagram and YouTube. Beauty influencers popularized the “strobing” technique, which uses highlighter alone for a luminous look. The release of Anastasia Beverly Hills’ Glow Kit in 2016 set a new standard, making multi-shade palettes a must-have.
Is it true that highlighting kits can cause breakouts?
While some highlighters contain ingredients that may clog pores for acne-prone individuals, many brands now offer non-comedogenic formulas. Powder highlighters are generally less likely to cause breakouts than cream or liquid versions. It is best to check the ingredient list and patch test before use.
Where can I find a highlighting kit that suits my skin tone?
Most beauty retailers, both online and in-store, carry highlighting kits with diverse shade ranges. Brands like Fenty Beauty and MAC offer inclusive options. Drugstore brands such as NYX and e.l.f. also provide affordable kits with multiple shades. For personalized recommendations, consult beauty advisors or read reviews from users with similar skin tones.
How does a highlighting kit differ from a single highlighter?
A highlighting kit offers multiple shades in one palette, allowing for versatility in application—you can mix shades or use different ones for different occasions. A single highlighter provides only one shade, which may limit your options. Kits are often more cost-effective per shade and are ideal for travel or for those who like to experiment with different finishes.
How to Choose the Right Highlighting Kit for Your Skin Type and Desired Finish
Selecting a highlighting kit can feel overwhelming given the sheer number of options on the market. The first consideration is your skin type. For oily skin, powder formulas are generally the best choice because they help absorb excess oil and provide a matte yet luminous finish. Cream and liquid highlighters, on the other hand, are ideal for dry or dehydrated skin as they add moisture and create a dewy, glass-like sheen. Combination skin users may benefit from a kit that includes both powder and cream shades, allowing them to customize application per zone.
The finish you desire also plays a major role. If you prefer a subtle, natural glow for everyday wear, look for kits labeled “sheer,” “natural,” or “radiant.” These typically contain finely milled particles that catch light without appearing glittery. For a more dramatic, editorial look, choose kits with metallic or glitter finishes. Some brands now offer “baked” highlighters, which are baked on terracotta tiles for a unique texture that delivers a wet-looking sheen. The shade selection should complement your skin tone: champagne and pearl tones suit fair to light skin, gold and peach work for medium skin, and bronze or rose gold flatter deeper complexions.
Another factor is the kit’s versatility. Many modern highlighting kits include shades that double as eyeshadows or even lip toppers, making them travel-friendly. Some palettes feature a mix of warm and cool tones, allowing you to adjust your look based on the season or occasion. According to some sources, consumers increasingly prefer kits with at least one universal shade that works across multiple skin tones, reducing the risk of purchasing a palette with unusable colors. Reading reviews and watching swatch videos can help you gauge pigmentation and texture before buying.
The Role of Highlighting Kits in Professional Makeup Artistry
Professional makeup artists have embraced highlighting kits as essential tools in their kits. The ability to layer and blend multiple shades allows artists to create customized looks for clients with different skin tones and face shapes. For example, a lighter shade can be used on the high points of the face to lift and define, while a darker, warmer shade adds warmth to the temples or décolletage. This versatility is particularly valuable for bridal and event makeup, where photography demands a flawless, camera-ready finish.
Highlighting kits also enable artists to achieve the “strobing” technique efficiently. Instead of using multiple single products, an artist can dip into a single palette for all highlighting needs, saving time during a busy appointment. Many professional-grade kits offer larger pan sizes and more intense pigmentation, allowing for buildable coverage that withstands long wear. Brands like MAC and Make Up For Ever are popular among professionals for their reliable formulas and shade ranges.
However, some artists caution against over-reliance on highlighting kits. They emphasize that the product should enhance, not overpower, the natural features. The trend toward “skinimalism” has led many professionals to use highlighting kits sparingly, focusing on a few key areas rather than applying highlighter all over. Despite this, the highlighting kit remains a staple in professional kits, especially for editorial shoots and red-carpet events where a high-impact glow is desired. According to some sources, makeup schools now include dedicated modules on highlighting techniques, underscoring the product’s importance in modern beauty education.
How to Choose the Right Highlighting Kit for Your Skin Type and Desired Finish
Selecting a highlighting kit can feel overwhelming given the sheer number of options on the market. The first consideration is your skin type. For oily skin, powder formulas are generally the best choice because they help absorb excess oil and provide a matte yet luminous finish. Cream and liquid highlighters, on the other hand, are ideal for dry or dehydrated skin as they add moisture and create a dewy, glass-like sheen. Combination skin users may benefit from a kit that includes both powder and cream shades, allowing them to customize application per zone.
The finish you desire also plays a major role. If you prefer a subtle, natural glow for everyday wear, look for kits labeled “sheer,” “natural,” or “radiant.” These typically contain finely milled particles that catch light without appearing glittery. For a more dramatic, editorial look, choose kits with metallic or glitter finishes. Some brands now offer “baked” highlighters, which are baked on terracotta tiles for a unique texture that delivers a wet-looking sheen. The shade selection should complement your skin tone: champagne and pearl tones suit fair to light skin, gold and peach work for medium skin, and bronze or rose gold flatter deeper complexions.
Another factor is the kit’s versatility. Many modern highlighting kits include shades that double as eyeshadows or even lip toppers, making them travel-friendly. Some palettes feature a mix of warm and cool tones, allowing you to adjust your look based on the season or occasion. According to some sources, consumers increasingly prefer kits with at least one universal shade that works across multiple skin tones, reducing the risk of purchasing a palette with unusable colors. Reading reviews and watching swatch videos can help you gauge pigmentation and texture before buying.
The Role of Highlighting Kits in Professional Makeup Artistry
Professional makeup artists have embraced highlighting kits as essential tools in their kits. The ability to layer and blend multiple shades allows artists to create customized looks for clients with different skin tones and face shapes. For example, a lighter shade can be used on the high points of the face to lift and define, while a darker, warmer shade adds warmth to the temples or décolletage. This versatility is particularly valuable for bridal and event makeup, where photography demands a flawless, camera-ready finish.
Highlighting kits also enable artists to achieve the “strobing” technique efficiently. Instead of using multiple single products, an artist can dip into a single palette for all highlighting needs, saving time during a busy appointment. Many professional-grade kits offer larger pan sizes and more intense pigmentation, allowing for buildable coverage that withstands long wear. Brands like MAC and Make Up For Ever are popular among professionals for their reliable formulas and shade ranges.
However, some artists caution against over-reliance on highlighting kits. They emphasize that the product should enhance, not overpower, the natural features. The trend toward “skinimalism” has led many professionals to use highlighting kits sparingly, focusing on a few key areas rather than applying highlighter all over. Despite this, the highlighting kit remains a staple in professional kits, especially for editorial shoots and red-carpet events where a high-impact glow is desired. According to some sources, makeup schools now include dedicated modules on highlighting techniques, underscoring the product’s importance in modern beauty education.