news | March 30, 2026

The Highlighter That Promises A Fresh, Dewy Look

Created around 2016, face gloss aims to give the skin a natural shine without looking too glittery. Emerging during the death of the Instagram beat, the no makeup-makeup look came to replace the blocky brows, matte lips, and bold contour that had been popular for so long. Glittery, powder highlights also went into the bin along with contour and brow palettes. Instead, makeup artists focused on creating a fresh-faced style.

Like lip gloss, but for the face, face gloss is a clear gloss applied to the high points of the cheeks, just like you would apply any highlighter. While more traditional highlighters use shimmer or glitter to deliver shine, face glosses reflect light itself, producing an inner glow. Although it looks like a lip gloss, it's not as sticky; however, it's best to opt for a lightweight foundation or a tinted moisturizer, because it won't apply as well on something with full coverage.

To apply, dab a little onto wherever you want a bit more shine and pat it in with your fingers rather than rubbing. It'll help the product to stay in place without lifting any complexion product you may have put on beforehand. If you want a more subtle shine, dab it in gently with a clean beauty blender.