You're Doing It Wrong: How to Apply Illuminator

You've been highlighting wrong all this time

Want to get that just-got-back-from-an-exotic-island glow, but don't have the funds to fly there? No problem at all. Illuminator to the rescue—with the help of celebrity makeup artist Suzie Kim, of course.

Basically, an illuminator's purpose is to brighten any facial features you want to highlight. Those areas are usually your cheekbones, just under the arch of your brows, your inner eye and your cupid's bow. Once applied, you'll notice those parts of your face giving off a gorgeous glow, making you look healthier and more radiant than ever before. It can look as natural, as seen on celebs like Lily Collins and Sarah Hyland, or dynamic (hello, J.Lo!) as you want it—it's all about what works for you.

Lighten Up: If your face is feeling a bit dull (thanks to winter storm Jonas), illuminator can be the best quick fix to bring back your glow. "[You can] apply illuminator in different ways depending on the overall look [you're] going for and it also depends on the status of [your] skin," noted Suzie. Also, you're bound to have staple makeup products you use all year-round, but follow this expert advice and use "illuminator in the winter months to offset the state of the condition from the weather."

Dry Days: Everyone's skin is different, so it's important to cater to your specific type. "For my super dry-skinned clients, I love to add illuminator to their cheekbones, slightly on the cheeks, bridge of the nose, base of the forehead and slightly on the chin," said Suzie. "This mimics the natural plains of the face that tend to glow [when you sweat]. It also highlights the dimensions of the face and helps give it shape."

Oil Be Gone: "A lot of people confuse a greasy look with the use of illuminators," said Suzie. "Try using a powder highlighter along your cheekbones if you have oily skin. I guarantee you'll love it as much as my clients do."

Tool Time: For the best application possible it's important that you're using the right tools. Suzie put, "for illuminators, if it's a powder-based product use a fluffy eye shadow brush to apply it, but if it's a liquid-based product you're using just your clean fingers will do!"

Chantecaille Liquid Lumière Highlighting Fluid, $39