Dream of Benefit’s High Beam

I’ve never been into highlighting products. In fact, the only highlighter that I was familiar with was the neon, fluorescent type that I carefully used all over my university tutorial notes. Until I saw this one product persistently being described as ‘A must-have!’ and ‘Best beauty splurge!’,I simply had to succumb to my cosmetics addiction.

Benefit’s High Beam liquid highlighter is a cult-status favourite of celebrities, models and commoners alike. This rather pricey product is regularly featured in make-up artist’s kits, magazines, beauty blogs, and in Megan Fox’s handbag (apparently).

PACKAGING

Firstly, the highlighter itself comes in the classic Benefit packaging for liquid products – a glass bottle, screw on lid and little brush. It’s quite similar to a nail polish bottle, and is not particularly sanitary, but it does give the product an ‘oh yes, I live in vintage, French boudoir’ feel.

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION

High Beam is a luminous liquid champagne-pink highlighter, awash with glimmering silver pearl. The shimmer is so fine that on application, the separate particles are not visible, but it leaves the skin illuminated for glowing but natural look. The texture of highlighter is milky and so blendable that you’ll fool everyone into thinking that your dewy complexion really is au naturale. It’s also great for sallow, dull or dry skin, because the finish leaves your skin with a healthy, moisturised sheen.

APPLICATION TIPS & TRICKS

My favourite aspect of the product is the amazing versatility. I’ll use this mixed with my foundation or tinted moisturiser or with body lotion for an all-over-glow. The fine brush helps to distribute precise, small amounts onto the brow bone, cupid’s bow and down the bridge of the nose for a brightened finish. I also use it along the collarbone when going out which helps define the bone structure and decolletage. The ultimate technique for me would be highlighting the top of the cheekbones, after applying blush and contouring underneath with a matte bronzer. The result: high, catwalk-supermodel cheekbones that is guaranteed to send the whole clan of Victoria’s Secret models into a fit of jealousy.

FINAL VERDICT

I absolutely adore Benefit’s High Beam, it’s a premium quality, natural looking highlighter with an incredible, glowing finish – well worth the premium pricing. It’s my go-to highlighter day or night, rain, hail or shine. This product is like Photoshop in a bottle, except it never shuts down or freezes.

OVERALL RATING: 9/10

PRICE: $45 at Myer.com.au

PURCHASE AGAIN: I’d prefer to purchase 1 litre at a time.