We Tested 4 Products to Make You Glow – Instantly
January 1 | 3 minute read
Words by Samantha Brigden
Originally published on | February 13
No longer a stripe of glittery powder that emphasises even a hint of texture, modern-day illuminators deliver the kind of dewiness that looks like it could just be really great skin.
So, which should you add to your beauty bag, stat? We tapped four MECCA HQ members to share the formulas they reach for to suit every occasion…
For a night out
Charlotte Tilbury Beauty Light Wand, as seen on Courtney, Category Marketing Manager
Charlotte Tilbury designed this magical liquid to act like the ultra-flattering lights of a Hollywood film – achieved by infusing the formula with real pearls. Courtney praises it as “a great glow for a natural, dewy look”, but evenings are when it really shines!
She recommends making your night-time glam pop by swiping the cushion applicator across the top of your cheekbones and highpoints of your face (think: tip of your nose, hairline). Her favourite part? “How easily it blends with my blush and bronzer for a flawless, all-over finish.”
For a long lunch
By Terry Brightening CC Serum, as seen on Viv, Social Media Specialist
Sometimes, the most difficult makeup looks are the ones that need to last through a long, hot day. Viv has the solution: By Terry’s Brightening CC Serum. “I like to apply this all over my face before foundation – it's perfect if I'm glamming for a daytime event, delivering a radiance that lasts. If you want a multitasking serum that hydrates and adds a sunkissed glow, look no further!” she says.
Packed with skincare ingredients, this weightless elixir blurs, protects and illuminates. Running short on time? When she needs a five-minute face, Viv will “mix it with my foundation for a natural look, or blend it with moisturiser for bronzed, sheer coverage (think: your skin, but better).”
For the office
Rose Inc Solar Radiance Hydrating Cream Highlighter, as seen on Scarlett, Campaign Specialist
Despite having dry skin, Scarlett prefers a more natural glow that won’t distract her deskmates – like this incredibly creamy highlighter from Rosie Huntington-Whiteley’s cult-favourite brand. “It’s easy to build to your liking, which basically makes it a fool-proof option,” she says.
Enriched with extra moisturising ingredients like squalane, this hybrid somehow smooths the look of texture (rather than emphasising it), and if you’re rushing out the door, you don’t even need a brush: “This swipes on in seconds! I use my fingers to tap it in; I love how the warmth disperses the product in a more subtle, 'lit from within' way.”
For no-makeup makeup days
Westman Atelier Super Loaded Liquid Tint, as seen on Shivan, Digital e-Commerce Analyst
While it might be a new launch, Westman Atelier’s illuminating drops became an instant icon – with a skin-enhancing formula that delivers glow even after they’re washed off. Shivan was one of the lucky ones who got to try it first (head here for the full review), and now, he won’t go a day without it.
“It gives me a refreshed, dewy look that makes it seem like I've just stepped out of a yoga class. I love how the shade ‘Peau de Soleil’ is like a bronzer and highlighter in one,” he says. Shivan notes that it’s “ultra-versatile and perfect for any occasion”, making it a natural choice for the days when you don’t have the energy for a full face. Mix it with a little foundation for a skin tint effect, like Shivan, or wear alone as a “skin-boosting pick-me-up,” like Westman Atelier Founder Gucci Westman.
