No makeup routine is complete without a radiance or highlighting pen. Different from concealer (which is obviously a must as well), I use a highlighting pen to help minimize my nasolabial folds (those “parentheses” on the sides of the mouth), neutralize redness around my nose and camouflage blemishes when necessary. These products can also be used under the eyes when you need a little extra brightening, but I personally need more coverage (and I’m very, VERY happy with Garnier’s BB Eye Miracle Skin Perfector). The pen packaging is perfect because the little brush allows for precision that my fingers do not, especially when trying your hand at contouring.
There are two major players in this category: Yves Saint Laurent’s Touche Eclat and Dior’s Skinflash Radiance Booster Pen. Both feature the same pen applicator, though the YSL has a button you click to dispense the product and the Dior uses a twist mechanism. Beyond that, it boils down to personal preference. I’ve tried both, and I prefer the Dior because I feel it offers a touch more coverage. I also found a perfect match in Dior’s Sunbeam (003) shade, and despite more color options, YSL seems to miss the mark on my skin. In case you haven’t picked sides yet, here’s how the two stack up…
Yves Saint Laurent Touche Eclat
Price: $41
Available shades: 12
Dior Skinflash
Price: $38
Available shades: 6
There’s also a relatively new kid on the radiance pen block, and it’s Charlotte Tilbury’s The Retoucher. I haven’t tried it yet because I’d like to try it before I buy it (but if anyone knows the shade equivalent to Dior’s 003, please let me know!). But from what I’ve read, this is more of a concealer than highlighter thanks to more pigment.
Charlotte Tilbury The Retoucher
Price: $35
Available shades: 10
So are you Team Dior or Team YSL? Or is there another option you prefer?
