Vegan highlighters have revolutionized the beauty industry. They offer a cruelty-free and plant-based alternative to traditional makeup. These luminous products add a natural-looking radiance to the skin without compromising on ethics or quality. As more people embrace vegan lifestyles, the demand for animal-free cosmetics continues to grow. This inspires brands to create innovative formulas that rival their conventional counterparts.
When choosing a vegan highlighter, it’s essential to consider the ingredients and their source. Look for products that use natural minerals, plant-based oils, and botanical extracts to create that coveted glow. The texture and finish are also crucial factors. They determine how the highlighter blends with your skin and other makeup. Some prefer a subtle sheen, while others opt for a more intense shimmer.
We’ve scoured the market and tested numerous vegan highlighters to bring you a curated list of the best options available. Our selection focuses on products that deliver a natural-looking glow while staying true to vegan principles.
Best Vegan Highlighters for a Natural Glow
We’ve rounded up our top picks for vegan highlighters that’ll give you a radiant, earth-friendly glow. These cruelty-free options are perfect for anyone looking to add a touch of luminosity to their makeup routine while staying true to their values. From creamy, blendable formulas to powder highlighters that catch the light beautifully, there’s something for everyone in this curated selection. For those who seek a sun-kissed effect, we also recommend exploring our crueltyfree bronzing powder options that perfectly complement these dazzling highlighters. With these products, you can confidently enhance your look while supporting brands that align with your ethical beliefs.
VENICS Organic Diamond Glow Highlighter
We absolutely adore this organic highlighter for its natural glow and clean ingredients.
- Organic and vegan formula
- Easy to apply and blend
- Versatile multi-purpose product
- Limited shade range
- Might be too glittery for some
- Slightly pricey
We’ve been using this VENICS Organic Diamond Glow Highlighter for a while now, and it’s quickly become a staple in our makeup routine. The creamy texture glides onto our skin effortlessly, leaving behind a beautiful, dewy finish that catches the light just right.
What really sets this highlighter apart is its organic formula. Packed with nourishing botanical oils and butters, it feels like we’re treating our skin while adding that coveted glow. We love how it doesn’t just sit on top of our skin but actually melts in, creating a natural-looking radiance.
We’ve found this highlighter to be incredibly versatile. It works wonders on our cheekbones, but we’ve also used it as an eyeshadow and mixed it with our foundation for an all-over glow. The pale gold shade we tried complements a range of skin tones, though we wish there were more color options available.
BaeBlu Organic Tint Tube
We recommend this versatile, all-natural highlighter for those seeking a radiant glow with clean ingredients.
- Certified organic and vegan
- Multi-use for cheeks, lips, and eyes
- Moisturizing formula suitable for all skin types
- Small amount for the price
- Some may find the texture too creamy
- Limited shade range
We’ve been using this BaeBlu Organic Tint Tube for a while now, and it’s quickly become a staple in our makeup routine. The creamy texture glides on smoothly, blending effortlessly into the skin for a natural-looking radiance. We love how it adds a subtle warmth to our cheeks and a touch of shimmer to our eyelids.
The buildable coverage is a game-changer. We can opt for a soft, barely-there glow or layer it for a more intense highlight. It’s perfect for those days when we want a quick, fresh-faced look without the fuss of multiple products.
What really sets this highlighter apart is its clean ingredient list. It’s reassuring to know we’re not putting any harsh chemicals on our skin. The moisturizing formula feels nourishing, and we’ve noticed it works well even on our drier skin days. While the price point is a bit high for the amount you get, we feel it’s worth it for the quality and versatility.
e.l.f. Halo Glow Filter
We think this vegan complexion booster is a must-have for anyone seeking a natural, radiant glow without heavy makeup.
- Versatile 4-in-1 application
- Infused with skin-loving ingredients
- Suitable for all skin types
- Shade matching can be tricky
- May not provide enough coverage for some
- Bottle design could be improved
We’ve been using the e.l.f. Halo Glow Liquid Filter for a while now, and it’s become a staple in our makeup routine. This little bottle packs a punch when it comes to creating a dewy, soft-focus look. We love how it blurs imperfections and gives our skin a healthy, radiant appearance.
The formula feels lightweight and breathable on the skin. It’s not heavy or greasy, which is perfect for those of us who prefer a more natural look. We’ve found it works well on its own for a subtle glow, or mixed with foundation for added luminosity.
One of our favorite aspects is the skincare benefits. The inclusion of hyaluronic acid and squalane means we’re nourishing our skin while enhancing its appearance. It’s refreshing to use a product that not only looks good but also feels good on the skin.
Mom’s Secret Natural Glow Stick
This all-natural, vegan highlighter stick is a must-have for anyone seeking a subtle, radiant glow without compromising on clean ingredients.
- Versatile multi-use product
- Made with organic ingredients
- Cruelty-free and vegan-friendly
- Limited shade range
- May not suit oily skin types
- Subtle effect might not satisfy bold makeup lovers
We recently got our hands on Mom’s Secret Natural Glow Stick in the shade “Dawn,” and we’re pretty impressed. This little wonder packs a punch when it comes to creating a natural-looking radiance. As we swiped it across our cheekbones, we noticed a soft, luminous sheen that caught the light beautifully.
The creamy texture glides on smoothly, making it a breeze to apply. We found it blends effortlessly with our fingertips, creating a seamless finish that looks like our skin but better. It’s perfect for those no-makeup makeup days when we want to look fresh-faced and awake.
What really won us over is the clean ingredient list. Knowing that we’re putting organic, vegan-friendly products on our skin gives us peace of mind. Plus, the compact size means we can toss it in our bag for quick touch-ups throughout the day. While the glow is subtle, we appreciate that it never looks glittery or over-the-top.
Gabriel’s Stellar Glow
We’re smitten with this eco-friendly liquid highlighter that delivers a natural, radiant glow.
- Buildable, lightweight formula
- All-natural and vegan ingredients
- Versatile application options
- Limited shade range
- Applicator can be finicky
- Subtle effect may not suit all preferences
We’ve been on the hunt for a clean, natural highlighter that doesn’t compromise on performance, and Gabriel’s Stellar Glow has quickly become our go-to. This liquid illuminator feels like a second skin, blending seamlessly into our complexion without any telltale shimmer or glitter.
The formula is a dream to work with. We love how it’s buildable, allowing us to create anything from a subtle dewiness to a more intense strobe effect. It’s become our secret weapon for perking up tired skin, especially on those early mornings when we need a little extra radiance.
One of our favorite ways to use this product is mixing a drop or two into our foundation for an all-over glow. The doe-foot applicator makes it easy to target specific areas like our cheekbones and the bridge of our nose. While we appreciate the precision it offers, we’ve found that sometimes the applicator can be a bit tricky to work with, especially when we’re in a rush.
Mom’s Secret Natural Glow
We recommend this highlighter for those seeking an all-natural, organic option with a radiant finish.
- All-natural and 75% organic ingredients
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Suitable for face and body use
- Can be difficult to blend
- Powder may shatter easily
- Limited shade options
We were excited to try Mom’s Secret Natural Pressed Highlighter Powder, and it didn’t disappoint. The champagne-colored shimmer gave our skin a youthful, subtle glow that lasted throughout the day. We loved how it instantly brightened our complexion, whether we applied it to our cheekbones or collarbone.
The lightweight formula felt great on our skin, and we appreciated that it’s made with all-natural ingredients. It’s perfect for those of us who prefer clean beauty products. We found it complemented various skin tones and types, making it a versatile addition to our makeup collection.
While we enjoyed the natural radiance it provided, we did notice that it can go on a bit thick. It took some practice to achieve the right amount of product for a seamless blend. We also had to be careful with the compact, as it seems prone to shattering if not handled gently. Despite these minor drawbacks, we think this highlighter is a solid choice for anyone looking to add a touch of eco-friendly luminosity to their makeup routine.
Physicians Formula Butter Glow
We’re absolutely smitten with this illuminating liquid that gives skin a radiant, healthy-looking glow.
- Nourishing formula with Amazon butters
- Versatile application options
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Subtle effect may not suit all preferences
- Limited shade range
- Smaller product size
We’ve been reaching for this Physicians Formula Butter Glow Liquid Highlighter non-stop lately. It’s become our go-to for adding a touch of luminosity to our everyday looks. The creamy texture glides on effortlessly, imparting a soft, natural-looking radiance that doesn’t scream “I’m wearing highlighter!”
What really sets this product apart is its skin-loving formula. Packed with nourishing Amazonian butters like Murumuru and Cupuaçu, it feels more like a treat for our skin than just makeup. We’ve noticed our complexion looks more hydrated and feels softer with regular use.
We love how versatile this highlighter is. Sometimes we mix a drop into our foundation for an all-over glow, other times we dab it on our cheekbones for a targeted luminous effect. It plays well with other products and doesn’t disturb our base makeup. The subtle shimmer catches the light beautifully without emphasizing texture or pores.
Buying Guide
When choosing a vegan highlighter for that natural glow, we’ve got a few key factors to consider. Let’s explore what to look for to find your perfect match.
Ingredients
We recommend scanning the label for plant-based ingredients like:
- Mica
- Coconut oil
- Jojoba oil
- Shea butter
Avoid anything with carmine, beeswax, or lanolin, as these aren’t vegan-friendly.
Shade Selection
Pick a shade that complements your skin tone:
- Fair skin: Pearl or champagne
- Medium skin: Rose gold or peach
- Dark skin: Bronze or gold
Formulation
Consider your skin type when choosing between:
- Powder: Great for oily skin
- Cream: Ideal for dry skin
- Liquid: Versatile for all skin types
Application Method
Think about how you prefer to apply your highlighter:
| Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Stick | Easy to use, portable | Less precise |
| Compact | Good control, buildable | Requires a brush |
| Dropper | Blends well with moisturizer | Can be messy |
Shimmer Level
We can choose from subtle to bold:
- Soft sheen for everyday wear
- Medium shimmer for a fresh look
- High impact for special occasions
Frequently Asked Questions
Curious about vegan highlighters? We’ve got you covered with answers to some common questions about achieving that perfect natural glow.
Which highlighter gives the best natural glow?
For a subtle, natural-looking radiance, we love the Luminous Pearl Highlighter from EcoGlow. Its finely-milled powder formula melts into the skin, creating a soft-focus effect that catches the light beautifully.
Where should I apply highlighter to get that perfect natural shine?
We recommend applying highlighter to the high points of your face. Focus on your cheekbones, the bridge of your nose, and the center of your forehead. A touch on the cupid’s bow can also add a lovely dimension to your lips.
What’s the top pick for a highlighter that suits all skin tones?
Our go-to for universal appeal is the Moonbeam Highlight Stick by PureRadiance. Its champagne-gold shade complements a wide range of skin tones, offering a buildable glow that works for both subtle and bold looks.
How can I tell if a highlighter product is truly vegan?
Look for clear labeling that states “vegan” or “100% plant-based.” Check the ingredients list for common animal-derived components like carmine, beeswax, or lanolin. Many brands now proudly display vegan certifications on their packaging.
What are some affordable vegan highlighters that don’t compromise on quality?
We’ve found some great budget-friendly options. The Sunlit Glow Powder by NaturalShine offers a gorgeous shimmer at a wallet-friendly price. Another favorite is the Dewdrop Liquid Illuminator from EcoBeauty, which provides a stunning glow without breaking the bank.
Can you recommend any cruelty-free highlighters that give a subtle luminance?
For a delicate sheen, we adore the Soft Radiance Cream by GentleGlow. It imparts a barely-there luminosity that’s perfect for everyday wear.
Another excellent choice is the Whisper of Light powder by PureEssence. It gives a soft-focus effect for a natural, lit-from-within glow.