Hourglass Unreal Liquid Highlighter review: a lightweight, 12‑hour glow with hydrating benefits and expert application tips

Key Highlights:
Introduction
The formulation: liquid-light system, hyaluronic acid and upcycled lupin seed extract
Texture and finish: what “weightless” and “feather-light” feel like in practice
Shade range and undertone guidance: Evoke, Divine, Mythic, Dream, Infinite
Application: step-by-step techniques and the No.16 Highlighter Brush
Longevity and clinical testing: reading the numbers
Who benefits most from Unreal Liquid Highlighter: skin types, ages and makeup styles
Comparing Unreal Liquid Highlighter to other formats and market offerings
Sustainability and ingredient sourcing: upcycling and product responsibility
Price, availability and the No.16 brush: what to know before buying
Practical troubleshooting: common issues and fixes
Beyond the highlight: other spring beauty launches to note
Real-world examples and routines: how professionals use liquid highlighter
Safety and makeup etiquette: interactions, photos and SPF
Value assessment: who should consider purchasing Unreal and when to skip it
FAQ

Key Highlights:

Hourglass’s Unreal Liquid Highlighter delivers a weightless, pearl-based luminosity that claims up to 12 hours of light-responsive radiance while incorporating hyaluronic acid and upcycled white lupin seed extract for hydration and firmness.
The formula is glitter-free, available in five shades, and pairs with a new No.16 Highlighter Brush designed for controlled application and seamless blending; clinical consumer testing reports strong immediate and long-term performance across hydration, firmness and staying power.

Introduction

Highlighter remains a cornerstone of modern makeup: a targeted way to accent bone structure, lift features and create a healthy, skin-like radiance without heavy coverage. Hourglass has added a new option to the category with Unreal Liquid Highlighter, an advanced liquid formula that aims to combine visible glow with skincare-forward benefits. Priced at £38 and launching exclusively at Space NK, the product positions itself as a versatile, everyday illuminator—one that works whether you prefer a subtle sheen or a more built-up, editorial finish.

This release pairs with a purpose-built brush, No.16, intended to simplify application and deliver a polished result without excess shimmer. Beyond marketing claims, the product includes measurable consumer-testing data that addresses weightlessness, hydration, longevity and whether the formula settles into fine lines. This article examines the product’s formulation, performance claims and practical application strategies, and places it in the context of current highlighter preferences and routines. Expect step-by-step guidance, troubleshooting advice for different skin types, and notes on when and how to layer the Unreal Liquid Highlighter for optimal results.

The formulation: liquid-light system, hyaluronic acid and upcycled lupin seed extract

Hourglass describes Unreal Liquid Highlighter as powered by an “advanced liquid-light system” designed to mirror how skin reflects light. That system relies on ultra-fine pigments and pearl-based reflectors rather than chunky glitter, producing a luminous, skin-like finish. The product’s base is formulated to be clear, with the colour deriving mostly from finely milled pearls; that approach reduces visible particles while maximizing soft reflectivity.

Two ingredients stand out for their functional benefits beyond glow: hyaluronic acid and upcycled white lupin seed extract.

Hyaluronic acid: A humectant that attracts and retains water within the outer layers of the skin. In topical cosmetic formulations, hyaluronic acid boosts immediate surface hydration and can create a plumper, smoother appearance when combined with other skin-care active routines. For a liquid highlighter, this means the illuminator can contribute subtle plumping and a dewy visual finish rather than simply sitting on the surface as a cosmetic film.
Upcycled white lupin seed extract: Upcycling in cosmetics refers to repurposing ingredients or byproducts that would otherwise be discarded, applying them to create functional actives with environmental benefits. White lupin seed extract contains proteins and peptides that brands often use to support skin elasticity and firmness. While topical extracts are not a substitute for clinical-grade dermatological treatments, they can complement a skincare routine by supporting surface texture and offering antioxidant effects.

Hourglass’ choice to avoid glitter and rely on fine pearlescent pigments targets consumers who want radiance without sparkle. The combination of a clear base and pearl pigments means colour payoff is influenced by the pearl tones rather than tinted fillers. That design allows for subtlety and layering: a single drop can produce a barely-there sheen, while additional product increases luminosity without obvious shimmer particles.

How this translates to performance depends on application method, skin preparation and the wear environment. Liquid light formulas often integrate more smoothly with creams and liquid foundations than powder highlighters, reducing patchiness and settling. The inclusion of humectant and plant-derived extract signals a hybrid product—part cosmetic, part cosmetic-skincare—capitalizing on a market appetite for multi-functional makeup.

Texture and finish: what “weightless” and “feather-light” feel like in practice

Hourglass characterises the Unreal formula as “feather-light” and silky. That description echoes consumer testing numbers showing 96% of participants agreed the product felt weightless and silky on the skin. What does that mean in practical terms?

Immediate tactile sensation: Users report a thin, non-tacky liquid that spreads easily and blends without dragging. A liquid highlighter with a light vehicle avoids the heavy, oily film some cream illuminators leave behind.
Finish on skin: The finish reads as a natural, light-reflecting glow rather than metallic or mirror-like. The absence of glitter prevents flashback and obvious sparkle in photos, while fine pearls create a soft-focus sheen. This makes the product suitable for photography, video and everyday wear.
Layering behavior: Because the base is clear and the reflective effect comes from the pearlescent pigments, the product layers well over other liquids or cream products. It’s formulated to be worn alone for subtle radiance or layered with the Unreal Liquid Blush for added dimension, per the founder’s guidance. Key to successful layering is allowing each layer to set slightly before applying the next to avoid pilling.

The difference between “glow” and “glitter” is relevant for consumers: glitter scatters light with large reflective particles that are visible on the skin; fine pearlescent particles reflect light more uniformly and appear more natural. Hourglass’ approach prioritizes the latter, in line with demand for more natural, skin-like luminosity.

Shade range and undertone guidance: Evoke, Divine, Mythic, Dream, Infinite

The Unreal Liquid Highlighter launches in five shades: Evoke, Divine, Mythic, Dream and Infinite. The source identifies Infinite as a yellowy-gold hue—useful information for anyone matching the product to warm or golden undertones.

Choosing the right highlighter shade requires mapping skin undertone to the reflectant tone:

Warm undertones: Gold, warm peach or honey-hued illuminators like Infinite often harmonize with yellow or olive undertones. They reinforce natural warmth and can brighten the complexion without appearing ashy.
Cool undertones: Champagne, pearl or soft pink reflectors typically flatter cooler undertones and prevent the glow from looking orange against fair skin with blue veins.
Neutral undertones: Champagne or soft gold shades that sit between warm and cool provide versatility and tend to work across a wider range.

When selecting among Evoke, Divine, Mythic, Dream and Infinite, swatching on the high point of the cheek or jawline in natural light provides the best read of true appearance. Because the base is clear and the pearl pigments generate the colour, the same shade will read differently on varied skin tones. For example, a champagne tone can look very subtle on medium skin but luminous on fair skin.

Practical swatching tips:

Test on bare skin or over your usual foundation to see how it blends with your base.
View swatches in daylight rather than artificial light.
Consider the intended use: a daytime sheen favors subtler tones; evening or editorial use can tolerate stronger warm or cool contrasts.

The palette’s five shades offer a practical span for most consumers. For users uncertain about undertone matching, a neutral champagne option is often the safest choice. Shop exclusivity at Space NK means in-store swatches and assistance are available for those near a retailer, which simplifies accurate shade selection.

Application: step-by-step techniques and the No.16 Highlighter Brush

Hourglass recommends shaking the bottle, dispensing a couple of drops via a small button at the base, placing product on the back of the hand, and using the No.16 Highlighter Brush to apply at the apple of the cheek, then buffing and blending upward toward the cheekbone. The brand also suggests additional placements for targeted glow: inner brow arch, cupid’s bow and bridge of the nose.

Detailed step-by-step guidance:

Skin prep:
- Cleanse and moisturize as usual. If you use a priming product, choose one compatible with liquid formulas—silicone or hydrating primers can work, depending on skin type.
- For oil-prone skin, light mattifying primer in the T-zone will minimize slipping without negating glow.
Layering base:
- Apply foundation, BB cream or tinted moisturizer first. For a skin-first finish, you can mix a drop of the Unreal Liquid Highlighter into foundation to create an all-over dewy glow.
- Concealer should follow foundation; use it where coverage is needed and allow brief setting time before highlighter application.
Dispensing product:
- Shake bottle to suspend pigments.
- Press the base button to dispense 1–2 drops on back of hand or clean mixing palette. The granularity of the product means a little goes a long way.
Tools and techniques:
- No.16 Highlighter Brush: Hourglass designed this brush for application control and blending. Use light, upward strokes to place product at the apple of the cheek, then buff upward along the cheekbone. The brush helps avoid streaks and picks up minimal product, offering a built-up yet natural finish.
- Fingers: For targeted, warm application (e.g., inner brow or cupid’s bow), fingertip warmth aids blending, especially for very thin formulas. Pat, don’t drag.
- Damp sponge: For an all-over seamless finish or to tone down intensity, dab lightly with a damp sponge to press product into the skin.
- Small synthetic shader brush: Ideal for inner-corner eye highlight or precise bridge-of-nose application.
Placement:
- Natural daily glow: Apply a tiny dot to the highest point of the cheekbone, blending upward toward the temple.
- Youthful "apple glow": Dab at the apple of the cheek and blend upward; this mimics the soft lift associated with a fresh complexion.
- Sculpted or photographic finish: Add a thin line along the top of the cheekbone and blend upward for a more defined catchlight.
- Additional accents: Cupid’s bow and inner brow arch create perceived fullness and openness.
Layering with blush and bronzer:
- When using cream or liquid blush (including Hourglass Unreal Liquid Blush), apply blush first for color placement, then dot highlighter atop the cheekbone for lift.
- Alternatively, mix a drop of highlighter with cream bronzer for a warm, luminous cheek.
Setting:
- For longevity on oily skin, lightly set the T-zone and areas of heavy oil production with translucent powder while leaving the highlighted zones minimal to preserve glow.
- A light mist of setting spray locks everything together and helps the highlighter meld with skin for a long-lasting finish.

Practical scenarios:

Daytime office look: One drop dabbed to cheekbone and blended with fingers, paired with tinted moisturizer and minimal powder.
Night out: Two drops applied with No.16 brush, layered with Unreal Liquid Blush and a setting spray for heightened glow.
Photograph-ready: Ensure the product is glitter-free to avoid flashback; fine pearls are preferable for camera.

No.16 Highlighter Brush specifics: The brush is designed to pick up a controlled amount of product and deliver even blending without streaking. Regular cleaning is essential: wash synthetic brushes weekly or biweekly depending on use to prevent product build-up that compromises blending.

Longevity and clinical testing: reading the numbers

Hourglass provides consumer-testing statistics to back performance claims. Reported results include immediate impressions and assessments after 8 and 12 hours. Key figures from the data:

Immediate:

96% said the product feels weightless and silky on the skin.
93% said it makes their skin look and feel firmer.
90% said the product leaves skin with a radiant glow.

After 8 hours:

93% reported the product continues to have a high shine and radiant finish.
87% said it makes their skin feel softer and look plumper.
84% said their skin feels more hydrated.

After 12 hours:

90% said the product did not settle into fine lines.
90% said the product stays in place and true to colour.
87% said it continues to make their skin look firmer.

Interpreting these metrics:

High initial approval for texture and perceived firmness speaks to the formula’s sensory attributes and immediate cosmetic effects. Hyaluronic acid’s humectant effect may account for perceived plumping and hydration.
Durability numbers (93% shine after 8 hours; 90% staying true after 12 hours) indicate strong staying power for a liquid highlighter, particularly when wearer conditions are controlled and appropriate application techniques are used.
The claim that the product doesn’t settle into fine lines for 90% suggests the formula remains smooth without emphasizing texture, an important attribute for mature skin or areas where skin creases.

Limitations to consider:

Consumer-testing typically reflects controlled conditions and a specific sample population; individual results vary with skin type, climate, activity level and skincare regimen.
Perceived firmness from topical cosmetic application is not the same as measurable dermal remodeling; statements about “firmness” refer to immediate visual and tactile effects.

Practical takeaways for longevity:

For oily skin types, primer and strategic powdering help maintain control in high-sebum zones while preserving highlight.
For dry skin, ensure adequate moisturization before application to prevent tugging and to enhance product adhesion.
Setting spray prolongs wear in humid conditions by locking pigments to the skin.

Who benefits most from Unreal Liquid Highlighter: skin types, ages and makeup styles

Liquid highlighters differ in how they interact with skin compared with powders. Unreal’s lightweight, pearlescent formula suits a range of consumers:

Dry or dehydrated skin: Hyaluronic acid and hydrating base provide immediate surface plumping and a dewy finish, reducing the need for additional emollients.
Normal/combination skin: Layerability and control make the product adaptable. Use a light hand in oil-prone areas.
Mature skin: The claim that the product does not settle into fine lines for most users makes it attractive for those concerned about highlighting texture. Thin, luminous formulas that blend into the skin are preferable to heavy creams or chunky shimmers for mature complexions.
All ages seeking a natural glow: Because the formula prioritizes fine pearls over glitter, it works for natural everyday looks and more polished finishes.

Not ideal for:

Extremely oily skin may find liquids more difficult to manage over a long day without proper priming and setting.
Those seeking high-intensity, metallic or mirror-like shine: The formula aims for a soft, skin-like luminosity, not a high-reflective metallic.

Combination with other products:

With cream blush: Blend strategically—cream blush first, highlight second to place shine on top of color.
With powder foundations: Apply foundation, then spot-highlighter to preserve reflectivity without over-powdering.
With sunscreen: Apply sunscreen first; allow to absorb before applying foundation and highlighter. Be mindful that some sunscreens cause pilling with certain primers or makeup.

Practical example: makeup artist workflow for a wedding

Prime the face and apply a hydrating foundation in thin layers.
Apply cream contour lightly for definition, then cream blush on the apple of the cheek.
Dispense Unreal Liquid Highlighter (1–2 drops) and use No.16 brush to place highlight on high points.
Set the T-zone with a light dusting and mist to meld products; touch up with a small brush for standout areas in photographs.

Comparing Unreal Liquid Highlighter to other formats and market offerings

Highlighters appear in powdered, cream, stick and liquid forms. Each format has advantages:

Powders: Long-lasting and easy to control intensity; can be flaky on dry skin.
Creams/sticks: Creams sit well on dry skin and are buildable; sticks can be convenient but sometimes leave edges.
Liquids: Blend seamlessly with skin and base products; can be more forgiving and create a skin-resembling sheen.

Unreal Liquid Highlighter’s unique selling points in the liquid space:

Pearlescent, glitter-free finish—appeals to consumers who dislike visible shimmer particles.
Skincare actives—hyaluronic acid and lupin extract give the formula a hybrid positioning.
Clinical consumer-testing data supporting long wear and non-settling claims.
A companion brush designed specifically for the product to optimise application.

Price positioning:

At £38, Unreal sits in the premium/mid-range highlighter bracket. That price reflects the brand’s upscale positioning and the inclusion of active ingredients and a specially designed brush. Consumers comparing value may weigh product longevity and versatility against price; a multi-use liquid that can be mixed with foundation or blush offers added utility.

Real-world competitor considerations:

For those seeking maximum luminosity, layered approaches with liquid highlighter and powder topper exist, but this increases the risk of texture emphasis.
Consumers who prefer a single product for both subtly enhancing and skincare benefits may prioritise Unreal over purely decorative illuminators.

Sustainability and ingredient sourcing: upcycling and product responsibility

Upcycled white lupin seed extract signals a commitment to repurposing ingredients that might otherwise be wasted. Upcycling reduces resource strain and can deliver novel functional benefits, aligning with growing consumer interest in sustainable beauty practices.

Other sustainability notes to consider when evaluating a product:

Packaging materials and refillability: The source article doesn’t detail packaging recyclability; check retailer or brand pages for specifics.
Ingredient transparency: Hourglass discloses the use of upcycled lupin and hyaluronic acid, but fuller ingredient lists should be reviewed by consumers with allergies or sensitivities.
Ethical manufacturing and testing: The article does not specify cruelty-free status or certifications; consult brand resources for official claims.

Practical consumer approach:

If sustainability is a priority, research packaging details and corporate commitments on the brand website.
Consider longevity: a longer-lasting product that reduces consumption frequency can be more sustainable in aggregate.

Price, availability and the No.16 brush: what to know before buying

Availability:

Unreal Liquid Highlighter and the No.16 Highlighter Brush launched exclusively at Space NK at the time of the announcement. Exclusive launches can change; check Space NK and Hourglass for stock updates and wider distribution.

Pricing:

Unreal Liquid Highlighter: £38.
No.16 Highlighter Brush: £48.

Brush value:

At £48, the No.16 brush is an investment for those who appreciate specialized tools. It promises controlled product pick-up and blending; professional makeup artists or enthusiasts who favor brush application may find the cost justified.

Buying tips:

Try swatches in-store where possible to select the shade that reads best with your undertone.
If you prefer touch-free application or travel light, investigate whether the highlighter performs well with fingers or a sponge before purchasing the brush.
Consider whether you’ll use the brush for other cream/liquid products; a multi-use synthetic brush increases overall value.

Practical troubleshooting: common issues and fixes

Highlighters, especially liquids, can produce issues from pilling to accentuating texture. Troubleshooting covers preventative steps and quick fixes.

Problem: Product pills or balls up when applying.

Cause: Interaction between incompatible primers, heavy skincare or insufficient absorption time between layers.
Fix: Wait after applying moisturizer/primer before makeup; use primers compatible with liquids or shift to a water-based primer. Reduce product quantity and build slowly.

Problem: Highlight accentuates fine lines.

Cause: Heavy application or extensive layer build-up in textured areas.
Fix: Use smaller amounts and apply with fingertips to warm the product into the skin. Opt for a micro-dot technique near lines and blend outward.

Problem: Product fades or shifts by midday.

Cause: Excessive skin oil, friction or humid conditions.
Fix: Prime oily areas, lightly set non-highlight zones, and finish with a setting spray. Reapply a small dot and press with a sponge for touch-ups.

Problem: Shade looks off against foundation.

Cause: Undertone mismatch or the base color altering pearl appearance.
Fix: Mix a drop of highlighter into foundation or apply beneath foundation for a subtle, unified glow. Alternatively, switch to a shade that complements your base.

Problem: Brush picks up too much product.

Cause: Over-dispensing or brush design not matching technique.
Fix: Dispense less and tap the brush on the back of the hand to remove excess before applying.

Beyond the highlight: other spring beauty launches to note

Two additional products received attention alongside Hourglass’ launch and reflect broader consumer interest in multifunctional beauty tools and easier shade-matching solutions.

Keskine IPL handset:
- Market trend: Increased interest in at-home IPL devices for hair reduction and reduced salon visits.
- Claim: Keskine advertises up to 98% hair reduction in four weeks, a cooling system for comfort and a 24-minute treatment time. Price around £199 (discounted from £299) positions it as a budget-friendly alternative to clinical sessions.
- Consideration: Results from at-home IPL vary with device energy, adherence to treatment schedule, and hair/skin colour compatibility. Consumers should confirm device suitability and follow manufacturer guidelines.
e.l.f. Soft Glam collection:
- Focus: Simplified shade-matching with the Soft Glam Base Covered Duo, pairing Soft Glam Satin Foundation and Soft Glam Satin Concealer in 36 shades aimed at covering cool, neutral and warm undertones.
- Upside: Matching foundation and concealer shades can streamline routines, and the duo is marketed as lightweight, satin-finish, buildable, crease- and transfer-resistant. Promotional discounts and inclusive shade ranges appeal to budget-conscious shoppers who want simplified shopping.

These launches show two parallel trends: greater emphasis on at-home tools that reduce salon visits, and product systems designed to simplify color-matching and base creation.

Real-world examples and routines: how professionals use liquid highlighter

Makeup artists adapt liquid highlighters like Unreal to varied briefs. Here are three scenarios that illustrate the product’s versatility.

Editorial photoshoot:
- Objective: Strong yet natural highlights that read well on camera without glitter.
- Workflow: Prime, apply medium-coverage foundation, contour lightly, apply Unreal Liquid Highlighter with a brush for precision to the high points of the face. Build in layers for dimension and finish with a mattifying powder only where necessary to maintain shape without losing glow.
Minimalist daytime routine:
- Objective: Fresh, skin-first radiance for everyday wear with minimal steps.
- Workflow: Moisturizer, lightweight SPF, one pump of tinted moisturizer mixed with a drop of Unreal Liquid Highlighter for all-over luminosity. Conceal specific areas as needed. Add a small dot of highlighter on cheekbones if more lift is desired.
Bridal makeup:
- Objective: Long-wearing, camera-friendly glow for a day-long event.
- Workflow: Skincare prep the night before and the morning of the wedding. Use long-wear foundation and apply Unreal Liquid Highlighter strategically. Seal with micro-fine powder under heavy lights and finish with a setting spray to extend wear through reception.

These examples demonstrate how the product’s lightweight texture and layering capacity make it adaptable to both subtle enhancement and more pronounced, camera-ready illumination.

Safety and makeup etiquette: interactions, photos and SPF

A few practical notes on safety and compatibility:

Flash photography: Glitter can cause flashback; fine pearlescent formulas typically avoid this problem, but test the product in camera settings similar to your situation if flash photography is expected.
SPF layering: Apply sunscreen first and allow it to absorb before makeup. Some chemical filters may interact with makeup products, so layering sequence and absorption time matter.
Allergies and sensitivities: Review the full ingredient list if you have known sensitivities. Upcycled or plant-derived extracts can cause reactions in rare cases.
Eye area caution: Keep product out of the eye and avoid applying too close to the lashline to reduce migration and irritation.

Value assessment: who should consider purchasing Unreal and when to skip it

Purchase consideration factors:

Buy if: You prioritize a natural, skin-like sheen that’s glitter-free, appreciate skincare-infused makeup, and want a product that layers easily with creams and liquids.
Consider alternatives if: You prefer powder toppers or metallic, high-intensity highlights; you have extremely oily skin and dislike liquid formulations; you require a lower price point.

The inclusion of performance data and active ingredients supports the product’s premium price. The companion brush is a value add for those who prefer professional brush application; otherwise, fingers and sponges offer functional alternatives.

FAQ

Q: Does the Unreal Liquid Highlighter contain glitter? A: No. The formula uses ultra-fine pearl pigments rather than large glitter particles to produce a refined, skin-like luminosity without visible sparkle.

Q: How long does the highlight last on skin? A: Hourglass reports that the product maintains a high shine and radiant finish for up to 8–12 hours in consumer testing, with 90–93% of participants confirming lasting radiance and true-to-colour performance at 12 hours under test conditions. Results may vary with skin type, climate and activities.

Q: Will it settle into fine lines? A: Ninety percent of participants in Hourglass’ consumer testing reported that the product did not settle into fine lines after 12 hours. Proper application—using small amounts and blending rather than layering heavily—helps reduce the risk of settling.

Q: Which shade should I choose? A: Choose based on undertone: warm undertones pair well with gold/peach tones (Infinite’s yellowy-gold is an example), cooler undertones suit champagne or pearl tones, and neutral undertones benefit from balanced shades. Swatch in natural light and, if possible, test over your regular foundation for the most accurate match.

Q: How should I apply the product for a natural finish? A: Shake the bottle, dispense 1–2 drops, and use a fingertip, damp sponge or the No.16 Highlighter Brush to pat product on the high points of the face—cheekbones, inner brow arch, cupid’s bow, and bridge of the nose—and blend outward.

Q: Can I mix the highlighter with foundation or moisturizer? A: Yes. Mixing a drop with foundation or moisturizer creates an all-over luminous finish. Mix sparingly to avoid altering foundation coverage or causing separation.

Q: Is the product suitable for mature skin? A: The lightweight formulation and non-settling properties make it suitable for mature skin. Use minimal product in areas with pronounced texture and blend carefully.

Q: How do I maintain the No.16 Highlighter Brush? A: Clean synthetic brushes weekly or biweekly depending on usage. Use a gentle brush cleanser or mild shampoo, rinse thoroughly, reshape the brush head and allow it to air dry flat or bristles down.

Q: Where can I buy Unreal Liquid Highlighter and No.16 Highlighter Brush? A: At launch, both items were available exclusively at Space NK. Check the retailer and Hourglass’ official site for broader availability or stock changes.

Q: Are there any sustainability benefits to the formula? A: The incorporation of upcycled white lupin seed extract reflects an upcycling approach, repurposing ingredients to reduce waste. For more details on overall sustainability practices or packaging recyclability, consult Hourglass’ official resources.

Q: How does this product compare to powders or cream highlighters? A: Liquid highlighters offer blendability and a skin-like finish that often integrates better with liquid or cream base products. Powders typically offer longer wear and easier build-up in oily conditions, while creams can be heavier and more prone to emphasizing texture. Unreal’s hybrid formula positions it as a versatile liquid option with skincare benefits.

Q: Can the highlighter be used on the body? A: Yes. Dilute or mix with body lotion for a subtle, all-over sheen before special events, or apply sparingly to collarbones and shoulders for added luminance.

Q: What are the main ingredients that support hydration and firmness? A: Hyaluronic acid provides hydration by attracting water to the skin surface, and upcycled white lupin seed extract is included for its potential supportive impact on skin elasticity and texture. These ingredients contribute to the product’s hybrid makeup-skincare function.

Q: Is it safe to use around the eyes? A: Use caution to avoid getting product into the eye. For inner-corner eye highlight, apply a very small amount using either a fingertip or a tiny synthetic brush and keep away from the lashline to reduce migration.

Q: Does the product contain SPF? A: No. This is a cosmetic reflectant product and does not replace sunscreen. Apply SPF as the final step of skincare and allow time to absorb before applying makeup.

Q: What are common application mistakes to avoid? A: Over-dispensing, dragging product across the skin, and applying on top of heavy, non-absorbed moisturizers or incompatible primers can cause pilling and uneven results. Build slowly and blend gently.

Q: How can I prolong the product’s wear in hot, humid conditions? A: Use an oil-control primer in the T-zone, lightly set non-highlight areas with a translucent powder, and finish with a setting spray designed to increase makeup longevity.

Q: What price point does Unreal occupy? A: The highlighter is priced at £38 with the No.16 Brush at £48—premium pricing reflective of Hourglass’ market positioning and ingredient focus.

Q: Are there any clinical or dermatological certifications reported? A: The article provides consumer testing statistics but does not detail formal dermatological certifications. Consumers with specific concerns should consult the brand or a dermatologist.

This information is intended to help you assess whether Hourglass Unreal Liquid Highlighter suits your routine, and to provide practical techniques for achieving a polished, long-lasting glow.