№ 1
Glow 9.4
Hollywood Glow Glide Face Architect
Best for premium liquid
Cult highlighter. Liquid format, blendable, creates real glow rather than glitter. The luxury pick.
Editorial Ranking · Makeup · 2026
Best Highlighters in Australia (2026)
Powder, cream and liquid highlighters tested for glow without glitter. Scored on natural finish, blend, and how they read in photos.
6 products tested
April 2026 editorial visit
5-axis Glow Score
0 paid placements
Full ranking · 1 to 6
Glow's full ranking.
Most highlighters glitter when they should glow. The picks below earn their place by being light-reflective rather than disco.
№ 2
Glow 9.2
Saint Ambient Lighting Powder
Best for subtle daily glow
The 'no-makeup highlighter' that gives skin life rather than shine. Strong on mature skin.
№ 3
Glow 9.0
Halo Glow Liquid Filter
Best for budget liquid
Pharmacy-grade liquid highlighter. Strong glow at a tenth of the luxury price.
№ 4
Glow 8.9
Champagne Pop
Best for powder highlighter
Iconic shade, pigmented but not glittery. Strong on lighter skin tones.
№ 5
Glow 9.0
Killawatt Freestyle Highlighter
Best for cream-to-powder
Inclusive shade range, real glow. Strong across Fitzpatrick I–VI.
№ 6
Glow 8.5
Skin Twinkle
Best for liquid sheen
Subtle, blendable. The pick for clients who want glow without commitment.
Frequently asked
Common questions.
Where should highlighter go?
Top of cheekbone, brow bone, cupid's bow, bridge of nose. Three small placements; don't apply to the entire face.
Powder, cream or liquid highlighter?
Liquid for natural-finish makeup; cream for layering; powder for setting and oily skin. Cream first, then powder set.
How do I avoid glittery highlighter?
Look for 'satin' or 'pearl' finish, not 'glitter' or 'shimmer'. The luxury picks (Charlotte Tilbury, Hourglass) earn their price by avoiding glitter.
Can mature skin wear highlighter?
Yes — placement matters more than product. Apply to top of cheekbone only, not under-eye. Avoid glittery formulas (they emphasise texture).
More from Glow.
For more makeup editorial, see our Makeup hub, or browse all brands and brand reviews. For our annual edit, see The Glow 100.