Our Top 10 Lists help shoppers quickly and easily find what they need. Using an intense review and approval process (which you can learn more about here), we break down the best products according to what consumers most commonly search for and want.
WE FOUND THE MOST POPULAR COMPLEXION PALETTES SO YOU CAN BRONZE, BLUSH, HIGHLIGHT, AND CONTOUR TO YOUR HEART'S CONTENT
Before Kim K shook the beauty world with her innovative contouring and highlighting technique, makeup looks existed almost exclusively in a two-dimensional realm. Today, the practice is used by makeup wearers everywhere, and there's a good reason for it. While adding those extra layers may seem unnecessary, it's actually crucial in order to bring back the dimension that foundations sometimes camouflage. And contrary to popular belief, this doesn't mean you have to have a heavy, overdone look. Whether you're going for a dramatic full face or something minimalistic and natural, contouring and highlighting can make all the difference.
With that in mind, we've rounded up an edit of the best bronzer, blush, and highlighter palettes you can buy right now. With a few sweeps of your favorite brushes, each of these pretty complexion palettes will sculpt, highlight, and add a little color to your cheeks—all while keeping you from rummaging through your beauty bag for multiple products.
Our Method For Finding The Best Bronzer, Blush, and Highlighter Palettes
In an Instagram poll, we asked our readers what makeup products they're most looking forward to wearing again. An overwhelming amount of participants said they're on the hunt for the best face and cheek palettes, so we went to work finding exactly that. We do this by utilizing our unique algorithm that factors in best-selling buzz, editorial recommendations, and rave reviews to score and rank products. From oil-absorbing formulas to options fit for mature skin, keep scrolling to shop the 10 best bronzer, blush, and highlighter palettes for every skin tone, budget, and beauty style.
Next up, check out the 10 Best Makeup Primers. Opening image: sephora.com
May 20, 2021
Top 10 Lists serve as unbiased shopping guides to the most trusted product recommendations on the internet. Products are scored and ranked using an algorithm backed by data consumers find most valuable when making a purchase. We are reader-supported and may earn a commission when you shop through our links.
The Rankings
Cover FX Perfector Face Palette
MULTITASKING
WHAT IT DOES: A must-have for the girl on the go, this do-it-all palette is formulated to enhance, highlight, and set the complexion. Designed to accommodate a range of skin tones, it features six ultra-creamy powders for achieving a full face of makeup effortlessly.
USER REVIEW: "It's awesome to find a set like this where every part of it looks beautiful and works amazingly. I've honestly cut my makeup time in half since I'm not using so many products to contour and highlight!"
Lancôme Blush Subtil All-In-One Contour, Blush & Highlighter Palette
OIL-ABSORBING
WHAT IT DOES: Whether you strive for a bright highlight or sculpted cheekbones, this palette can make it happen. Designed to accentuate your natural beauty, the all-inclusive kit delivers natural-looking, long-lasting results with a moisture-balancing formula.
WHO IT'S FOR: If your skin is oily or acne-prone, look no further. The three stunning shades are oil-absorbing, so they'll keep your complexion looking as fresh and shine-free as possible.
Huda Beauty 3D Cream And Powder Highlighter Palette
CREAM AND POWDER
WHY YOU NEED IT: Featuring both cream and powder formulas, this palette provides a slightly more natural glow than its competitors—think sculpted, 3D radiance every time.
THINGS TO KNOW: This formula is ultra-blendable and layers like a dream, which means you can build and sculpt your highlight to your desired level of coverage and drama.
HOURGLASS Ambient Lighting Palette
MATURE-SKIN FRIENDLY
WHAT IT DOES: Many powder formulas present problems to aging skin, but this silky option won't settle into wrinkles or fine lines. Formulated to capture, diffuse, and soften the way light reflects on the skin, this palette utilizes photoluminescent technology that filters out harsh light and refines the appearance of the complexion for a smooth, overall glow.
FUN FACT: Each shade in this palette is made to mimic the most flattering types of light—incandescent, dim, and radiant. Basically, it's an Instagram filter in real life.
Too Faced Natural Face Palette
MATTE AND SATIN FINISHES
WHO IT'S FOR: In search of something that delivers a lit-from-within glow? Look no further. With a little boost from your own natural beauty, this palette provides a luminous, bronzed, and flushed finish that will leave your makeup looking radiant all day long.
THINGS TO KNOW: With buildable coverage strengthened by ingredients like hydrating coconut butter, this velvety-soft formula is lightweight and never cakey.
Smashbox The Cali Contour Palette
BEGINNER FRIENDLY
WHY YOU NEED IT: Achieving a sculpted face has never felt so easy. This sunny sky-inspired palette features six highly pigmented shades that shape, bronze, and highlight in a cinch.
BEAUTY HACK: Suitable for application to the décolleté, body, cheeks, eyes, and face, this hardworking palette can also be used as an eyeshadow.
Tarte Cosmetics Tarteist PRO Glow To Go Palette
UNIVERSALLY FLATTERING
WHAT IT DOES: Finally—a matte contouring palette that works on all skin tones. Formulated with good-for-your-skin ingredients like antioxidants, coconut oil, algae extract, and vitamin E, this beauty contains everything you need to create a beautiful, everyday makeup look.
WHY YOU NEED IT: Formulated with Amazonian clay, this universally flattering palette delivers long-wearing coverage and your choice of a shimmery or matte finish.
Anastasia Beverly Hills Sugar Glow Kit
FOR A SUBTLE GLOW
WHO IT'S FOR: If you prefer speedy makeup looks, this time-saving palette is perfect for you. Including four metallic highlighters housed in one sleek compact, the kit delivers a luminous glow and buildable formula that works wet or dry.
USER REVIEW: "This glow kit is THE BEST. The different color palettes are perfect for any occasion. I love using a little shimmer for a typical day at the office, but then I can enhance my glow for a night out with my fiancé later!"
Dior Backstage Glow Face Palette
MAKEUP-ARTIST FAVORITE
WHY YOU NEED IT: Designed with an array of luminous highlighters, this palette features a buildable formula that allows you to create your very own custom glow. Dab it on with your fingers for a soft, diffused look, or use a big brush for a more intense result.
WHAT IT DOES: Inspired by the energy backstage at Dior fashion shows, this adaptable highlighter palette features four complementing colors that can be worn alone or blended together for a customizable look.
Anastasia Beverly Hills Sun Dipped Glow Kit
FOR A BRONZY GLOW
LOVED FOR: Housed in a chic compact, this sun-inspired palette features an array of highly blendable, luminous powders that deliver a sun-kissed glow without leaving behind fall-out.
BEAUTY HACK: To increase your makeup's luminosity, apply this product with a damp makeup brush.
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