When I first heard about a lavender highlighter, I’ll admit—I hesitated. Purple? On my cheeks? It sounded like one of those bold beauty trends that looks amazing on Instagram but maybe not so wearable in real life. But after seeing Cameran from Southern Charm mention it, curiosity got the best of me. Fast forward, and I finally ordered the NYX Duo Chromatic Illuminating Powder Highlighter in Lavender Steel (Amazon for the win, since I could never find it in stores). Spoiler alert: I’m so glad I did.
If you’ve ever wondered how to pull off a colored highlighter without looking like you’re headed to a costume party, this one’s for you.
Meet Lavender Steel
The NYX Duo Chromatic Highlighter in Lavender Steel is as magical as it sounds. Duo chromatic means it shifts color depending on how the light hits it. While the powder looks lavender in the pan, once applied, it reflects a soft pink glow with just a hint of cool purple. Translation: it’s far more wearable than you’d think. Unless you really pile it on, it doesn’t scream “purple cheeks”—instead, it gives a luminous, ethereal finish that feels fresh and fun.
Think of it as your usual glow with a twist.
How to Apply Colored Highlighter
The secret to making a statement highlighter work? Application. It’s all about balance and subtlety. Here’s my routine for Lavender Steel:
- Lay the foundation first – I apply it after foundation, concealer, bronzer, and blush. That way, it melts seamlessly into the rest of my makeup rather than sitting on top like glitter.
- Use the right tool – My go-to is a fan brush (I love the affordable one from e.l.f.). It picks up just enough product, diffuses it beautifully, and prevents any harsh streaks.
- Pro tip: If you’re using your fingers, gently tap the product on instead of rubbing it in. Rubbing can disturb your foundation underneath.
- Start tiny, build slowly – Highlighter is one of those “less is more” products. Dip your brush, swipe it across the back of your hand to remove the excess, then apply. You can always add more if you want extra glow.
Where to Apply Highlighter
Lavender Steel is surprisingly versatile. Here are my favorite spots to apply it:
- Tops of the Cheekbones – My main placement. I overlap it slightly with the top quarter (or half, depending on my mood) of my blush for a blended, luminous finish.
- Brow Bone – A touch above and below the brows instantly lifts and brightens the eyes.
- Nose – A thin line down the bridge and a dab on the tip add dimension without looking oily.
- Cupid’s Bow – Just a touch at the top center of your lip. Careful though—too much shine here and you’ll veer into “glittery mustache” territory.
- Inner Corners of the Eyes – One of my favorite tricks. Tap it on with your finger for a bright, wide-awake look. It also doubles as a stunning eyeshadow or topper if you’re feeling playful.
The Perfect Blush Pairing
Because Lavender Steel has that pink shift, it pairs beautifully with pink-toned blushes. My current favorite combo is with theBalm INSTAIN Long-Wearing Powder Blush in Lace. Together, the blush and highlighter create a fresh, romantic glow that looks soft and cohesive rather than mismatched.
For application, I swear by the Real Techniques Blush Brush. I’ve had mine for years, and it’s still going strong. It’s fluffy, perfectly sized, and blends like a dream—all without breaking the bank.
Why It Works
Colored highlighters might sound intimidating, but the key is remembering they’re not meant to completely alter your look. Lavender Steel works because it enhances your natural features with an unexpected twist. The duo-chrome effect adds dimension and catches the light in a way that’s subtle enough for everyday wear but still noticeable enough to earn compliments.
It’s not “purple highlighter,” it’s “glowy with a hint of lavender magic.”
Final Thoughts
If you’re in a makeup rut or just want to try something fun without going full rainbow, the NYX Duo Chromatic Highlighter in Lavender Steel is a fantastic place to start. It’s affordable, easy to apply, and surprisingly wearable. Pair it with a pink blush, a fan brush, and a light hand, and you’ll have a luminous finish that feels fresh and a little bit whimsical.
So if you’ve been side-eyeing the idea of a purple highlighter like I once did, trust me: this one is worth the leap.
