Illuminator is a makeup product designed to give the skin a soft, natural glow and refresh the complexion. It typically comes in liquid or cream form and contains fine light-reflecting particles that subtly enhance the skin’s radiance, creating a healthy, luminous look. While most illuminators are intended for a subtle glow, some contain more noticeable shimmer particles, allowing you to choose a product based on your desired effect. It can be applied all over the face or mixed with other products to achieve a gentle, lit-from-within finish.
Although the terms are often used interchangeably, an illuminator and a highlighter are not quite the same. The main difference lies in the intensity of the glow and how each product is used. An illuminator provides a soft, all-over radiance and is often mixed with foundation or applied to the whole face, while a highlighter delivers a more concentrated shine and is used to accentuate specific areas.