Forget powder blush this summer: this liquid highlighter launched by Hailey Bieber is already trending on Google
This summer of 2026, a new makeup product is shaking up beauty routines. Blush, which has reigned supreme on cheeks for several seasons, now faces competition from an unexpected texture that promises an effortlessly radiant complexion.
When liquid highlighter takes on blush
For the past few seasons, blush has dominated makeup bags. Shimmery blush, in particular, has become so popular that it has almost pushed highlighter into the background.
Yet the numbers speak for themselves. In just one month, global Google searches for the term “liquid highlighter” have jumped by 30%. This surge coincides with the time Hailey Bieber began teasing her summer collection for Rhode, her beauty brand.
At the heart of this new line are cream bronzers and “highlight milks”: illuminators with a milky texture that leave a shimmering veil on the tops of the cheekbones.
The “clean girl” aesthetic: a catalyst for change
The decline of the classic highlighter can be partly attributed to the rise of the “clean girl” aesthetic. This trend, which emphasizes subtle makeup, has gradually pushed overly intense products to the sidelines.
What’s more, the rise of shimmery blush has made daily highlighter application a thing of the past. Now, blush alone is enough to give you a healthy glow.
It is in this specific context that liquid highlighter is making a comeback, offering a lighter and more natural alternative.
“More natural and lightweight than powder highlighter, liquid highlighter seems ideal for a subtle makeup look that delicately highlights the flat areas of the face.”
Brands that are driving the trend
Rhode isn’t the only one driving this trend. Hourglass’s Unreal Liquid Highlighters, launched in mid-April, are currently creating a buzz on social media.
What’s more, Lancôme’s Juicy Tubes are no longer just for the lips: they’re now available as cheek highlighters, while retaining their signature glossy shine. Dior’s summer collection also features a new “healthy glow” shade of the Dior Forever Glow Maximizer.
On the other hand, each brand brings its own unique twist to this trend, whether through skincare ingredients, serum-like textures, or dropper tips to control the intensity of the glow.
Formulas enriched with active skincare ingredients
What sets these liquid highlighters apart from traditional powder highlighters is their composition. Their formula contains more water, making them feel lighter on the skin.
Rhode’s Highlight Milk, for example, features a trio of ceramides, vitamin E, and glycerin —the brand’s signature ingredients. It can be applied to the décolletage, chest, or legs, and blended with foundation or tinted moisturizer. It is available in 4 shades.
- Rhode’s Highlight Milk (€37): a milky texture with a pearlescent finish, enriched with ceramides and vitamin E
- Hourglass Unreal Liquid Highlighter (€45): serum-like texture, hyaluronic acid, claimed to last 12 hours
- Kiko Milano’s Glow Fusion Highlighting Drops (€11.99): an ultra-light, serum-like texture with shimmering pearls
- The Dior Forever Glow Maximizer (€43): a formula containing 92% naturally derived ingredients, with moisturizing iris extract
- Rare Beauty’s Positive Light (€33): pearl particles, lotus flower extract, gardenia fruit extract, and white water lily root extract
How to Use a Liquid Highlighter Instead of Blush
It’s easy to apply. Simply dab the product with your fingertips onto the tops of your cheekbones, your brow bones, or the bridge of your nose. The result is a glowing, luminous complexion, without any heavy residue.
For those who are hesitant to give up their blush, know that it’s possible to use both. First, apply powder or cream blush, then layer on a touch of liquid highlighter to boost the glow. Many products, such as Rhode’s Highlight Milk, can also be mixed directly into tinted moisturizer for a more seamless effect.
The only tip to keep in mind: choose a shade that’s slightly lighter than your skin tone for a harmonious, natural look.
Which liquid highlighter should you choose based on your beauty profile?
For fans of minimalist makeup, Typology’s 5% Vitamin C + Aloe Vera Brightening Concentrate is a must-have. Its formula is 98% natural and can be mixed into a day cream or serum.
For a more intense wet look and a finish similar to glossy blush, Lancôme’s Cheeks Juicy Tubes—with their jelly-like texture and luminous pigments—remain a top choice. Available in three shades, they blend easily with your fingertips.
Finally, for those looking for long-lasting wear, Benefit Cosmetics’ Dew-la-la promises 12 hours of radiance thanks to a blend of hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, sunflower seed oil, and glycerin. Available in 6 shades, it gently warms the complexion throughout the day.
