Highlighters have become a staple in many makeup routines, adding a luminous glow to the skin. These shimmering products can enhance facial features, create dimension, and give a radiant finish to any look. With the growing demand for cruelty-free and plant-based cosmetics, vegan highlighters have gained popularity among conscious consumers seeking ethical beauty options.
Vegan highlighters are formulated without any animal-derived ingredients, making them suitable for those following a vegan lifestyle or simply looking for more sustainable makeup choices. These products often incorporate natural oils, minerals, and plant-based ingredients to achieve that coveted glow.
When selecting a vegan highlighter, it’s essential to consider factors such as shade range, texture, and lasting power to find the perfect match for your skin tone and preferences.
We tested numerous vegan highlighters to find the best options for achieving a natural, luminous glow. Our top picks offer a range of finishes, from subtle shimmer to intense radiance, all while adhering to vegan and cruelty-free standards.
Best Vegan Highlighters for a Natural Glow
We’ve rounded up our top picks for vegan highlighters that’ll give you that coveted natural glow. These cruelty-free options are perfect for anyone looking to add a touch of radiance to their makeup routine while staying true to their ethical values. Whether you’re going for a subtle shimmer during the day or a bold glow for a night out, these products promise to enhance your features beautifully. Plus, with a range of shades to suit every skin tone, finding the perfect match is a breeze. So, if you’re on the hunt for the best vegan highlighters for glowing skin, look no further than our curated selection that combines performance and integrity.
VENICS Organic Diamond Glow
We’re impressed by this organic highlighter that delivers a natural, dewy glow without compromising on clean ingredients.
- Easy to apply and blend
- Versatile multi-purpose product
- Made with organic, nourishing ingredients
- Limited shade range
- Might be too glittery for some
- Small product size
We’ve been loving this VENICS Organic Diamond Glow highlighter lately. It’s a breeze to apply – just a quick dab with our fingertips and we’re good to go. The cream-to-powder formula melts right into the skin, giving us that coveted “glow from within” look.
What sets this highlighter apart is its impressive ingredient list. Packed with over 10 organic botanical oils and butters, it’s like a nourishing treat for our skin. We’ve noticed our cheekbones looking more hydrated and youthful after using it.
The versatility of this product is a huge plus. We’ve used it on our cheekbones, brow bone, and even mixed it with our foundation for an all-over glow. It’s long-lasting too – our skin still looks fresh and radiant at the end of the day. While the pale gold shade we tried works well for us, we do wish there were more color options available.
Essence Pure Nude Glow
We think this highlighter is a game-changer for anyone seeking a subtle, natural glow without breaking the bank.
- Subtle, natural-looking luminescence
- Smooth, blendable formula
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Limited shade range
- May be too subtle for some
- Packaging can be fragile
We’ve been on the hunt for the perfect natural highlighter, and this little gem from Essence has stolen our hearts. The Pure Nude Highlighter gives us that coveted “lit from within” look without any obvious shimmer or glitter.
When we first applied it, we were impressed by how smoothly it glided onto our skin. The baked formula feels silky and blends like a dream. We found it easy to build up for a more noticeable glow or keep it sheer for a barely-there radiance.
What really sets this highlighter apart is its versatility. We’ve used it on our cheekbones, brow bones, and even dabbed a bit on our cupid’s bow. It adds a soft luminescence that catches the light beautifully without looking overdone. For those days when we want to embrace our natural beauty, this has become our go-to product.
Wet n Wild MegaGlo Blushlighter
We highly recommend this vegan-friendly 2-in-1 blush and highlighter for a natural, radiant glow.
- Versatile duo for sculpting and highlighting
- Buildable, blendable formula
- Cruelty-free and gluten-free
- Highlighter can be too sparkly for some
- Limited shade range
- Packaging feels a bit flimsy
We’ve been loving this MegaGlo Blushlighter from Wet n Wild. It’s a game-changer for our makeup routine, offering both a blush and highlighter in one compact package. The soft, buildable formula allows us to create a subtle flush or amp it up for a more dramatic look.
The ultra-reflective, micro-fine pearl pigments give our cheeks a beautiful luminous glow. We found that sweeping on both colors together creates a perfect, natural-looking contour. For days when we want extra radiance, layering the highlighter on top of the blush works wonders.
One thing to note – the highlighter can be quite shimmery. While we adore the sparkle for evening looks, it might be a bit much for daytime wear if you prefer a more subdued glow. Despite this minor drawback, we’re impressed by the quality and performance of this affordable, vegan-friendly option.
BaeBlu Organic Tint Tube
This vegan, all-natural highlighter is a must-have for those seeking a healthy, radiant glow.
- Versatile multi-stick for cheeks, lips, and eyes
- Organic and natural ingredients
- Cruelty-free and gluten-free
- Small product size
- May not suit all skin types
- Limited shade range
We couldn’t wait to try BaeBlu’s Organic Tint Tube, and it didn’t disappoint. The creamy texture glides on smoothly, leaving a dewy finish that’s perfect for achieving that coveted natural glow. We love how it doubles as a blush, bronzer, and highlighter, making it a great addition to our makeup bag.
The organic and all-natural ingredients are a huge plus. It’s refreshing to use a product free from artificial colors, preservatives, and fragrances. Our skin felt nourished and hydrated throughout the day, thanks to its moisturizing formula.
We found the Chardonnay shade to be universally flattering, adding a subtle warmth to our complexion. It’s buildable, allowing us to create a subtle daytime look or amp it up for evening wear. The compact size makes it travel-friendly, but we wish there was a bit more product for the price.
Lamora Glow Palette
We think this vegan highlighter palette is a must-have for anyone seeking a natural, radiant glow.
- Versatile color range
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Portable compact with mirror
- Powder formula may not suit all skin types
- Limited shade options for deeper skin tones
- Shimmer might be too intense for some
We’ve been using this Lamora highlighter palette for a while now, and we’re impressed with its performance. The compact size makes it perfect for touch-ups on the go, and the built-in mirror is a game-changer. We love how the four shades complement various skin tones, allowing us to create a customized glow.
Applying these highlighters is a breeze. We’ve found that a light hand works best to achieve a subtle, natural-looking radiance. The powders blend seamlessly into the skin, and we’ve noticed they last throughout the day without fading or becoming patchy.
As clean beauty enthusiasts, we appreciate that this palette is vegan and cruelty-free. It’s refreshing to find a product that aligns with our values while delivering excellent results. While the shimmer might be a bit much for everyday wear, we’ve found it perfect for special occasions or when we want to add some extra sparkle to our look.
Buying Guide
When selecting a vegan highlighter for that natural glow, we’ve got a few key things to consider. Let’s break it down:
Ingredients
Look for plant-based, cruelty-free formulas. Mica, silica, and natural oils are common in clean beauty highlighters. Avoid anything with carmine or beeswax.
Shade Range
Choose a hue that complements your skin tone. Fair skin? Go for champagne or pearl. Deeper tones? Try bronze or gold.
Texture
| Texture | Best For |
|---|---|
| Powder | Oily skin |
| Cream | Dry skin |
| Liquid | All skin types |
Application Method
Stick highlighters offer precise application. Loose powders give an all-over glow. Pressed powders are great for touch-ups on the go.
Longevity
We want our glow to last! Look for formulas that promise 8+ hours of wear time.
Packaging
Eco-friendly packaging is a plus. Glass containers or recyclable plastics show a brand’s commitment to sustainability.
Remember, the best highlighter is one that makes us feel confident and radiant. It’s all about enhancing our natural beauty, not masking it.
Don’t forget to patch test new products, especially if we have sensitive skin. What works for one person might not work for another.
Lastly, consider multi-use products. Some highlighters double as eyeshadows or can be mixed with moisturizer for an all-over glow.
Frequently Asked Questions
Let’s address some common questions about vegan highlighters to help you find the perfect product for your natural glow.
What are some top-rated vegan highlighters for achieving a subtle glow?
We love the Rituel de Fille Rare Light Luminizer for its creamy texture and buildable shimmer. Another favorite is the RMS Beauty Living Luminizer, which gives a dewy, lit-from-within radiance.
Can you recommend any affordable drugstore highlighters that are also vegan?
E.l.f. Cosmetics offers great budget-friendly options. Their Baked Highlighter gives a beautiful sheen without breaking the bank. Wet n Wild’s MegaGlo Highlighting Powder is another wallet-friendly choice we adore.
Which vegan highlighter formulas work well for all skin types?
The Milk Makeup Flex Highlighter is versatile and works well on various skin types. Its cream-to-powder formula blends seamlessly. We also recommend the Pacifica Beauty Crystal Infused Highlighter, which suits most skin tones and textures.
How can I apply highlighter to get that perfect natural shine?
We suggest using a fluffy brush or your fingertips to apply highlighter to the high points of your face. Focus on your cheekbones, brow bone, and the bridge of your nose. Start with a small amount and build up for a natural-looking glow.
Are there any vegan highlighters available on Amazon with great reviews?
Yes! The Honeybee Gardens Complexion Perfecting Maracuja Pressed Blush in “Breathless” doubles as a highlighter and has stellar reviews. Another popular choice is the vegan-friendly NYX Professional Makeup Born to Glow Liquid Illuminator.
What ingredients should I look for in a vegan highlighter to ensure it’s cruelty-free?
We recommend checking for plant-based ingredients like mica, silica, and natural oils. These are cruelty-free. Avoid carmine, lanolin, and beeswax, which are animal-derived. Look for products certified by PETA or Leaping Bunny to ensure they’re truly cruelty-free.