Luminous skin may be down to lucky genes, but if you weren’t blessed with a perfect complexion there are plenty of ways to fake it.
We are constantly on the hunt for ways to look younger and a flawless face is top of many beauty wish lists. Changes in weather, pollution, stress and lack of sleep all affect our skin, but don’t worry – there are a host of illuminating products available to give you an enviably healthy glow.
If you choose the right one it will hide a multitude of sins including blemishes, redness, dark circles under the eyes and uneven skin tone.
First off try investing in a lightweight hydrating moisturiser for a radiance boost. Elemis’ Pro Radiance Illuminating Flash Balm hydrates the skin and smoothes fine lines.
Clarins Instant Light Complexion Perfector is made up of 3D pigments and helps to brighten the complexion. It also boasts an anti-pollution complex to prevent further skin woes.
As always, Nars offers something for everyone with their illuminator, which comes in a range of shades. We tried the cheekily titled Orgasm and while it may seem a rather bronzed shade for those with fairer skin, it wasn’t so scary when mixed with our usual foundation. If you are feeling a little intimidated by the colour, go for Copacabana – which offers a natural pearlescent sheen. This is a favourite item among brides to be and it’s easy to see why as the light-reflecting liquid glides on and leaves you with a luminous, fresh complexion.
Beauty giants MAC have a series of solutions for those in search of brighter complexions. Their Prep + Prime Beauty Balm is a lightly tinted liquid which helps to re-texturise skin and acts as a face primer too. The hardworking product even offers UVA/UVB SPF 35 to protect from the sun’s harmful rays.
Then there is the legendary Strobe Cream, known as the “ultimate quick fix” for skin. This is packed with vitamins and green tea to kick-start even the dullest of complexions. Iridescent specks help to brighten the face and can be applied from morning to night.
Givenchy’s Mister Bright Touch of Light Pen contains pearlescent particles and hides imperfections by reflecting light, while L’Oréal Paris Lumi Magique Primer has flecks of shimmer that catch the light to give the effect of sun-kissed radiance.
The enticingly named Estee Lauder Shimmer Jewel powder is perfect to dust onto cheekbones and even shoulders and collarbones for a gorgeously golden glow.
Another pressed product for your make-up bag is the Illuminator Glow Illuminating Powder, by Dolce & Gabbana. This is a little more subtle and gives a natural boost when applied to the cheeks. It’s useful to keep nearby for essential touch-ups during the day.
A handbag friendly offering is Benefit Cosmetics’ Finding Mr Bright Kit. This contains mini sizes of Benefit’s much-loved highlighters, as well as a cheek and lip stain so it’s perfect if you are on the go.