In 2026, the quest for the perfect eye highlighter continues, blending long-lasting effects with ease of use and versatile finishes. For those seeking a reliable, everyday brightening boost, the tarte Fake Awake Eye Highlight stands out for its waterproof, all-day glow. If you prefer a multi-purpose stick that can also highlight cheeks and nose, the NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Jumbo Highlighter Stick in Vanilla Ice Cream offers a lightweight, buildable shimmer. For precise contouring and under-eye brightening, the COLORGRAM Under Eye Highlighter Stick 02 Cool Tone provides a silky, smudge-proof finish. Lastly, for a luminous, multi-use shimmer, the Thrive Causemetics Brilliant Eye Brightener in Champagne Shine combines nourishing oils with a radiant glow. Each option balances different tradeoffs: longevity vs. shimmer, natural vs. high-impact glow, and portability vs. shade versatility.
Complete the kit
Key Takeaways
- Waterproof pencils like tarte Fake Awake excel for long-lasting eye brightening in demanding conditions.
- Multi-use sticks such as NYX Vanilla Ice Cream simplify application with a lightweight, buildable glow.
- Creamy, smudge-proof formulas like COLORGRAM offer precise highlighting and contouring on the go.
- Shimmer creams like Thrive Causemetics deliver a luminous, multi-purpose glow but may be too shimmery for matte lovers.
- Each product’s unique finish and application style makes certain options better suited for specific skin tones and preferences.
| tarte Fake Awake Eye Highlight – Brightening Highlighter Pencil for Eyes & Brows |  | Best for Long-Lasting, Waterproof Brightening | Type: Highlighter Pencil | Duration: 8 hours | Vegan: Yes | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Jumbo Multi-Use Face Highlighter Stick – Vanilla Ice Cream |  | Best for Versatile, Buildable Glow | Shade: Vanilla Ice Cream | Finish: Pearl | Type: Highlighter Stick | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| COLORGRAM Under Eye Highlighter Stick 02 Cool Tone |  | Best for Precise, Long-Lasting Under-Eye Brightening | Color: Cool Tone | Type: Highlighter & Contouring Stick | Design: Retractable | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Thrive Causemetics Brilliant Eye Brightener Champagne Shine |  | Best for Radiant, Multi-Use Luminous Glow | Finish: Shimmer | Formulation: Cream-to-powder | Waterproof: Yes | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| eye highlighter | Type | Application | Waterproof | Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| tarte Fake Awake Eye Highlight | Highlighter Pencil | Inner corner, brow bone, waterline, nose, Cupid’s bow | Yes | — |
| NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Jumbo | Highlighter Stick | Face, Cheeks, Nose | — | Pearl |
| COLORGRAM Under Eye Highlighte | Highlighter & Contouring Stick | Smooth, Even, Long-Lasting | — | — |
| Thrive Causemetics Brilliant E | — | — | Yes | Shimmer |
More Details on Our Top Picks
tarte Fake Awake Eye Highlight – Brightening Highlighter Pencil for Eyes & Brows
The tarte Fake Awake Eye Highlight is a standout for those who need a dependable, waterproof highlighter that stays put through long days or humid conditions. Its pencil form makes it easy to target inner corners, brow bones, and waterlines with precision. Compared with cream or stick options, it offers a more controlled application—though it may require blending to achieve a natural look. Its waterproof, smudge-proof formula ensures all-day radiance, but the small size might mean frequent reapplications for heavy users. This pick is perfect for anyone prioritizing durability and a natural glow in challenging environments.
Pros:- Long-lasting 8-hour wear
- Waterproof and smudge-proof
- Vegan and cruelty-free
Cons:- May require blending for a natural look
- Limited to eye and brow highlighting
- Small size may need frequent reapplication
Best for: People who need a reliable, waterproof eye highlighter that lasts all day.
Not ideal for: Those looking for a versatile face highlighter or a matte finish.
- Type:Highlighter Pencil
- Duration:8 hours
- Vegan:Yes
- Cruelty-Free:Yes
- Waterproof:Yes
- Application:Inner corner, brow bone, waterline, nose, Cupid’s bow
Our verdict“The tarte Fake Awake pencil excels for long-lasting, waterproof eye brightening, ideal for demanding conditions.”
NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Jumbo Multi-Use Face Highlighter Stick – Vanilla Ice Cream
The NYX Jumbo Highlighter Stick in Vanilla Ice Cream offers a lightweight, buildable pearl finish suitable for highlighting cheeks, nose, and face. Its twist-up design makes it incredibly easy to apply on the go, without the need for brushes or sharpeners. Compared to cream formulas, this stick provides a more luminous, pearl-like finish, but it might require layering for a truly intense glow. Its versatility makes it a favorite for quick touch-ups or enhancing multiple facial features. However, the shade options are limited in this review, and deeper or matte finishes are not available in this particular shade.
Pros:- Buildable, luminous pearl finish
- Easy twist-up application
- Cruelty-free and PETA-certified
Cons:- Limited shade options mentioned
- May require layering for high impact
Best for: Users seeking a simple, multi-purpose highlighter with a luminous finish.
Not ideal for: Those wanting a matte or fully pigmented highlighter for dramatic effects.
- Shade:Vanilla Ice Cream
- Finish:Pearl
- Type:Highlighter Stick
- Application:Face, Cheeks, Nose
Our verdict“This pick makes the most sense for users who want a versatile, easy-to-apply highlighter for face and cheeks with a luminous pearl sheen.”
COLORGRAM Under Eye Highlighter Stick 02 Cool Tone
The COLORGRAM Under Eye Highlighter Stick is designed for targeted under-eye brightening and contouring. Its silky-smooth, creamy formula glides effortlessly, offering a flawless finish that’s both long-lasting and smudge-proof. Compared with pencil or cream formulas, this retractable stick provides more precision, making it ideal for quick touch-ups or detailed highlighting. Its compact design makes it perfect for purse or travel use. However, it’s limited to a cool tone shade, so those with warm undertones might find it less suitable. It’s best for users who focus on brightening and contouring rather than all-over face highlighting.
Pros:- Silky-smooth application
- Long-lasting, smudge-proof formula
- Compact, retractable design
Cons:- Limited to cool tone shade
- May require blending for a seamless finish
- Specific to highlighting and contouring
Best for: People who want a precise, long-lasting under-eye highlighter and contouring tool.
Not ideal for: Those needing a full-face highlighter or warmer shades.
- Color:Cool Tone
- Type:Highlighter & Contouring Stick
- Design:Retractable
- Application:Smooth, Even, Long-Lasting
Our verdict“The COLORGRAM stick is a go-to for precise, long-lasting under-eye brightening and contouring on the move.”
Thrive Causemetics Brilliant Eye Brightener Champagne Shine
The Thrive Causemetics Brilliant Eye Brightener is a versatile cream-to-powder formula that adds a luminous champagne shimmer. Its Ring Light Technology creates a soft, radiant glow that works well for brightening eyes, brow bones, and even lips or cheeks. Infused with nourishing oils like macadamia seed and meadowfoam seed, it provides added skin benefits. Compared to matte or satin highlighters, this shimmer option offers a more radiant, attention-grabbing glow, but it might be too shimmery for those favoring a subtle or matte finish. Its waterproof, crease-resistant formula ensures long wear, making it suitable for multi-use applications beyond just eyes.
Pros:- Long-lasting, waterproof formula
- Infused with nourishing oils
- Multi-use for eyes, cheeks, and lips
Cons:- May be too shimmery for matte finish lovers
- Buildable but requires multiple layers for high impact
Best for: Those looking for a luminous, multi-purpose highlighter with nourishing ingredients.
Not ideal for: Users preferring matte finishes or a very subtle glow.
- Finish:Shimmer
- Formulation:Cream-to-powder
- Waterproof:Yes
- Nourishing Ingredients:Macadamia seed oil, Meadowfoam seed oil
- Use:Eyeshadow, highlighter, brow bone, inner corners, cupid’s bow
Our verdict“This shimmering cream-to-powder brightener is excellent for a luminous, multi-purpose glow, especially for those embracing shimmer finishes.”
How We Picked
Our selection process focused on products specifically designed for eye highlighting, prioritizing longevity, ease of application, and finish quality. We evaluated each item’s versatility—whether it could be used on other facial areas—along with formulation qualities like waterproofing, blendability, and ingredient safety. Price point and brand cruelty-free status also played roles. To ensure relevance, we looked for options that balance high performance with user-friendly design, avoiding overly complex or limited-use products. The final lineup reflects a mix of classic favorites and innovative formulas, all chosen for their standout features in the eye highlighter category.
| eye highlighter | Type | Application | Finish |
|---|---|---|---|
| tarte Fake Awake Eye Highlight | Highlighter Pencil | Inner corner, brow bone, waterline, nose, Cupid’s bow | — |
| NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Jumbo | Highlighter Stick | Face, Cheeks, Nose | Pearl |
| COLORGRAM Under Eye Highlighte | Highlighter & Contouring Stick | Smooth, Even, Long-Lasting | — |
| Thrive Causemetics Brilliant E | — | — | Shimmer |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Eye Highlighters
Choosing the best eye highlighter involves understanding your specific needs—whether it’s long-lasting waterproofing, multi-use versatility, or a subtle glow. The right product should align with your makeup style, skin tone, and application preferences, allowing you to brighten eyes effortlessly or add a radiant touch to your look. Here’s what to consider when selecting your ideal eye highlighter.
Finish and Texture
Highlighters come in various finishes—from matte, satin, to shimmering. Your choice depends on the desired effect: matte for a natural look, satin for subtle glow, and shimmer for a radiant, eye-catching shine. Texture matters too; pencils offer precision, sticks provide buildability, and creams deliver a luminous, blendable finish. Consider your preferred application method and the finish that complements your overall makeup style.
Longevity and Waterproofing
If you need your highlighter to last through long days or humid conditions, waterproof and smudge-proof formulas are a must. Pencil options like tarte Fake Awake excel here, providing all-day wear without smudging or fading. For more delicate finishes, look for long-lasting formulas that resist creasing and transfer, especially if you plan to wear them in demanding environments.
Versatility and Application
Some highlighters are designed for specific areas—like inner corners or brow bones—while others double as contour or cheek highlighters. Multi-purpose sticks and cream formulas tend to be more versatile, allowing quick application across multiple facial zones. Consider whether you want a dedicated eye product or something that can enhance your entire face with minimal effort.
Shade and Finish
Choosing the right shade is key for natural enhancement or high-impact glow. Cool tones work well for brightening under the eyes, while warmer shades add a sun-kissed glow. The finish—pearl, shimmer, or matte—also influences the final look. Be mindful of your skin tone and the occasion when selecting your highlighter to achieve the desired effect.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best type of eye highlighter for long-lasting wear?
Pencils like the tarte Fake Awake are designed specifically for long-lasting wear, especially since they are waterproof and smudge-proof. These are excellent choices if you need your eye brightening to withstand humidity, tears, or long hours without fading.
Can eye highlighters be used on other parts of the face?
Yes, many highlighters, especially sticks and cream formulas, are versatile enough to be used on cheeks, the bridge of the nose, and even lips. The NYX Vanilla Ice Cream stick fits this role well, providing a luminous glow that enhances multiple features quickly.
Are shimmer-based highlighters suitable for everyday wear?
Shimmer highlighters like Thrive Causemetics Champagne Shine are perfect for adding a radiant touch to your look, but they might be too shiny for some daily settings. If you prefer a more subtle glow, opting for satin or pearl finishes may be better suited for everyday use.
What should I consider when choosing a shade for my eye highlighter?
Choosing a shade depends on your skin tone and the effect you want. Cool tones can brighten and lift the under-eye area, while warm shades add warmth and glow. Test shades in natural light to see how they complement your complexion and avoid shades that seem too stark or mismatched.
How do I apply eye highlighters for the best effect?
Application techniques vary by product, but generally, using your fingertip or a small brush allows precise placement. For inner corners and brow bones, a light tap or swipe works well. For sticks or pencils, gentle blending is key to achieving a natural, radiant finish without harsh lines.
Conclusion
For those prioritizing all-day durability and waterproof performance, the tarte Fake Awake pencil is a clear choice. If you want a versatile, easy-to-apply product that adds a luminous glow to multiple areas, the NYX Vanilla Ice Cream stick makes a lot of sense. Those seeking precise, long-lasting under-eye brightening will find the COLORGRAM stick ideal, while radiant, multi-use shimmer lovers will appreciate the Thrive Causemetics Brightener. Your ideal eye highlighter depends on your specific makeup preferences and daily needs, but each of these selections offers a compelling option for a radiant, bright-eyed look in 2026.
