If you’re committed to the cause of looking like you just dipped your face in liquid mercury, you need one of the best illuminating moisturizers, featured ahead — the foundation of your radiant skin care routine, if you will. These moisturizers are formulated with light-reflecting minerals, like titanium dioxide and mica (the same particles you’ll find in shimmery or sparkly makeup) for a dynamic, luminous effect. At the same time, you’ll get all the moisturizing, firming, and plumping benefits you’d get from a normal, non-glowy moisturizer.
The effect you’ll get with these moisturizers is much more subdued than, say, slathering a liquid highlighter all over your face, but you’ll still see an undeniable radiance. But for an even subtler effect, mix your luminizer of choice with another moisturizer, your foundation, or “spot-treat” the high points of your face (like your cheekbones, Cupid’s bow, and the bridge of your nose). Also, note that this list includes creams, balms, lotions, and serums; so in addition to the concentration and payoff of their shimmer/glow, you can cater your choice based on your preferred consistency.
From a cult-favorite Korean balm to a cream infused with literal 24-karat gold, scroll on to shop seven of the best illuminating moisturizers you can get right now.
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