Bronzer vs. Highlighter — What's the Difference?
By Urooj Arif & Fiza Rafique — Updated on April 18, 2024
Bronzer is used to add warmth and depth to the skin, often for a sun-kissed look, whereas highlighter is applied to accentuate high points of the face with a glow.
Difference Between Bronzer and Highlighter
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Bronzer is typically applied to areas of the face where the sun naturally hits, such as the forehead, cheekbones, and jawline, to create a tanned effect and enhance facial contours. On the other hand, highlighter is used on areas like the brow bone, cheekbones, and the bridge of the nose to reflect light and emphasize facial features.
The texture of bronzers can vary from powders to creams, offering a matte or slight shimmer finish, whereas highlighters often have a shimmering or even glittery finish to maximize light reflection.
Bronzers are usually found in shades of brown and beige tailored to match different skin tones, while highlighters come in a range of colors, including pink, peach, silver, and gold.
The goal of using bronzer is to mimic a natural shadow and tan, enhancing the face’s natural structure, while highlighters aim to bring a radiant and luminous quality to the skin, making it appear more vibrant and youthful.
Comparison Chart
Primary Use
Adds warmth and depth
Adds glow and luminosity
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Application Areas
Forehead, cheeks, jawline
Brow bone, cheekbones, nose bridge
Finish
Matte or shimmer
Shimmer or glitter
Common Shades
Browns and beiges
Pink, peach, silver, gold
Effect on Face
Mimics tan and shadows
Emphasizes high points with light
Compare with Definitions
Bronzer
A cosmetic used to give skin a tinted, sun-kissed look.
She applied bronzer to enhance her cheekbones.
Highlighter
Available in liquid, powder, or stick form.
She applied a stick highlighter for quick touch-ups.
Bronzer
Enhances the appearance of a tan.
The bronzer added a perfect fake tan to her complexion.
Highlighter
Typically has a shimmering or glittery finish.
His highlighter added a glittery glow to his evening makeup.
Bronzer
Comes in various forms like powder, cream, or liquid.
She prefers using a cream bronzer for smoother application.
Highlighter
Comes in various shades to complement different skin tones.
The silver highlighter was perfect for her pale skin.
Bronzer
Used for contouring and adding depth.
Using bronzer, she contoured her face to highlight her features.
Highlighter
A cosmetic to highlight and brighten specific facial features.
She dabbed highlighter on her nose to make it stand out.
Bronzer
Often matte or slightly shimmering.
He chose a matte bronzer for a more natural look.
Highlighter
Used to reflect light and enhance glow.
She used highlighter to make her cheekbones pop under the lights.
Bronzer
One that bronzes.
Highlighter
A highlighter is a type of writing device used to mark attention to sections of text by marking them with a vivid, translucent colour. A typical highlighter is fluorescent yellow, coloured with pyranine.
Bronzer
A powdered or liquid cosmetic that is applied to the skin, especially of the face, to darken skin tone or create the illusion of glow.
Highlighter
A usually fluorescent marker used to mark important passages of text.
Bronzer
A cosmetic product intended to give the skin a temporary bronzed colour resembling a suntan.
Highlighter
A cosmetic for emphasizing areas of the face, such as the eyes or cheekbones.
Bronzer
(rare) bronze
Highlighter
A marker pen used to highlight text.
Highlighter
A cosmetic product that reflects light, used to emphasize the contours of the face etc.
Highlighter
That which highlights or emphasizes something.
Highlighter
A cosmetic used to highlight the eyes or cheekbones
Highlighter
A fluorescent marker used to mark important passages in a text
Common Curiosities
What is bronzer used for in makeup?
Bronzer is used to add warmth, depth, and a sun-kissed effect to the skin, enhancing the face's natural contours.
What is highlighter used for in makeup?
Highlighter is applied to emphasize high points of the face by reflecting light, making the skin appear more luminous and vibrant.
How do I choose the right shade of bronzer?
Choose a bronzer one or two shades darker than your skin tone to ensure a natural-looking enhancement.
Can bronzer and highlighter be used together?
Yes, bronzer and highlighter are often used together to contour and highlight the face for a more dimensional and radiant makeup look.
Are there different types of highlighters?
Yes, highlighters come in various forms including liquids, powders, and sticks, each offering different levels of luminosity.
Can bronzer be used as a contour?
Yes, matte bronzers are often used for contouring by applying them to create shadows and define facial features.
How do I apply bronzer correctly?
Apply bronzer on areas where the sun naturally hits, like the forehead, cheeks, and jawline, using a large fluffy brush for an even distribution.
What is the best highlighter for oily skin?
Powder highlighters are generally best for oily skin as they help absorb excess oil and minimize shine.
How do I apply highlighter correctly?
Highlighter should be applied lightly on the high points of the face such as the cheekbones, brow bones, and down the center of the nose.
What is the difference in finish between bronzers and highlighters?
Bronzers typically have a matte or slightly shimmering finish to mimic natural skin, whereas highlighters are more distinctly shimmering or glittery for enhanced radiance.
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Written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
Co-written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
