A highlighter is a type of cosmetic product that reflects light and is often used for contouring. It can be applied to the face or other parts of the body to brighten the skin on a given area, create the perception of depth and angles, and enhance natural features). Highlighters come in various forms, including powder, liquid, cream, gloss, solid stick, and jelly). They are different from illuminators). Highlighters are usually in a white or champagne color, but can be in many other colors as well, including blue, pink, and rainbow, to suit certain makeup looks). Some highlighters are formulated with mica, a shimmery mineral that has traditionally been sourced in rural India using child labor. However, some brands now use lab-made mica, and major cosmetic companies have pledged to improve traceability within the Indian mica industry to create a more ethical supply chain.

Regarding highlighter ingredients, most highlighter ink contains fluorescein, which is an organic compound and dye that is soluble in water. The tip, on the other hand, is made from polyethylene or polyester beads, both of which are lightweight types of plastic. Other chemicals that may be found in highlighter ink include pyranine, triphenylmethane, rhodamine, xanthene, and coumarin.

Cream highlighters, for example, are made with a soft, cream-to-powder formula that effortlessly blends into the skin without smudging foundation or feeling greasy. They can be applied with fingers, brush, or makeup sponge, and can be built up for a more intense look. The Makeup Revolution Bright Light Highlighter, for instance, is a radiance-enhancing highlighting stick designed to soften the skin while promoting a natural-looking glow. It is available in six shades and can be applied to the tops of the cheekbones, down the bridge of the nose, above the brow bone, or on the cupids bow to illuminate the high points of the skin.

In summary, highlighters are cosmetic products that reflect light and are used to brighten the skin, create the perception of depth and angles, and enhance natural features. They come in various forms and colors, and can be made with different ingredients. Some highlighters are formulated with mica, which has traditionally been sourced in rural India using child labor, but some brands now use lab-made mica and major cosmetic companies have pledged to improve traceability within the Indian mica industry to create a more ethical supply chain.