Melanin-Approved Highlighters | Best Glow for Black and Brown Skin
Sis, we deserve to shine—literally. The right highlighter can have you looking like you just stepped off a tropical vacation, but not all highlighters are made for our melanin-rich skin. Some are too ashy, too chalky, or just not giving that golden goddess glow. So, let’s get into the best highlighters that are 100% Black and brown girl-approved.
Best Highlighters for Darker Skin Tones
1. Fenty Beauty Killawatt Freestyle Highlighter in Trophy Wife
Why We Love It: This iconic gold shade is not for the shy—it’s bold, ultra-pigmented, and straight-up magical on deep skin tones. If you love a blinding highlight, this is your go-to.
How to Use It: Apply it to the high points of your face (cheekbones, brow bone, cupid’s bow) and even your collarbones for extra drama.
2. Danessa Myricks Beauty Enlight Illuminators
Why We Love It: Danessa Myricks understands melanin. These loose powder highlighters come in stunning shades that melt into brown skin, giving you a wet, dewy finish.
How to Use It: Mix it with your foundation for an all-over glow or layer it on top of your cheekbones for that lit-from-within look.
3. Juvia’s Place The Tribe Highlighter Vol. 2
Why We Love It: Warm-toned, ultra-creamy, and affordable, this highlighter gives you a soft yet noticeable glow without looking ashy.
How to Use It: A little goes a long way! Dab it on lightly with a fan brush for a natural radiance or build it up for full-on drama.
4. Pat McGrath Skin Fetish Highlighter & Balm Duo
Why We Love It: Mother Pat never misses. This duo features a creamy balm for a natural glow and a powder highlighter for that extra pop. It’s perfect for achieving a glass-skin effect.
How to Use It: Swipe on the balm first for a dewy base, then layer the powder highlighter on top for a more intense shine.
5. Artist Couture Diamond Glow Powder in Conceited
Why We Love It: If you love a loose highlighter that gives a red carpet-level glow, this one is it. It’s finely milled, buildable, and melts beautifully into the skin.
How to Use It: Use a damp beauty sponge to press the powder into your skin for a seamless, glass-like highlight.
Final Thoughts
No more struggling with dull, chalky highlighters—these picks will have you looking sun-kissed and radiant all year long. Whether you love a soft glow or a blinding beam, these highlighters will get you glowing, melanin queen!
