☀️ Best Waterproof Highlighters for Summer 2025 – Long-lasting Glow that Beats the Heat
If you're a makeup lover, you already know that summer and makeup don’t always mix. Hot weather, sweat, humidity, and unexpected beach dips can turn your perfectly blended look into a smudged mess. That’s why finding the right waterproof highlighter is essential for glowing through the summer without constant touch-ups.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best waterproof highlighters for summer 2025 that are sweat-proof, water-resistant, long-lasting, and glow-enhancing. Whether you're heading to a festival, beach trip, or just enjoying the sun, these highlighters will keep your look flawless.
💧 Why You Need a Waterproof Highlighter in Summer
During the hotter months, your skin produces more oil and sweat. This causes cream or powder products to slip off or oxidize faster than usual. A waterproof highlighter:
✅ Stays put in humid weather
✅ Withstands sweat and water exposure
✅ Maintains its glow throughout the day
✅ Doesn’t clog pores or cause breakouts (when chosen correctly)
✅ Looks fresh even after hours of wear
✨ Top 6 Waterproof Highlighters to Try in 2025
💎 Fenty Beauty Match Stix Shimmer Skinstick
Skin Type: All
Texture: Cream-to-powder
Why it works: Rihanna’s Fenty Beauty never disappoints. This lightweight, shimmer-packed stick highlighter is long-wearing and easy to apply. It’s ideal for summer days because it stays put, doesn’t feel greasy, and adds a radiant glow that looks natural under sunlight.
Extra tip: Apply with fingers for a soft, diffused glow.
🌟 Benefit Cosmetics Watt’s Up! Cream Highlighter
Skin Type: Normal to dry
Texture: Cream
Why it works: This soft-focus champagne highlighter melts into the skin and stays luminous even in high heat. It’s a favorite among makeup artists for outdoor events due to its blendability and longevity.
Extra tip: Layer under powder highlighter for extra glow that lasts.
🔥 Maybelline Master Chrome Metallic Highlighter
Skin Type: Oily or combination
Texture: Powder
Why it works: Affordable yet high-performance. Maybelline’s Master Chrome delivers an intense metallic finish without fading. Its waterproof formula makes it perfect for oily skin in the summer.
Extra tip: Apply with a damp beauty sponge for extra sheen and staying power.
🥥 Milk Makeup Highlighter Stick
Skin Type: Dry or sensitive
Texture: Cream
Why it works: Infused with coconut oil and mango butter, this hydrating highlighter stick is gentle on the skin and provides a natural glow. Plus, it's vegan, cruelty-free, and waterproof!
Extra tip: Keep it in the fridge before applying for a cooling effect.
🧴 Tarteist PRO Glow Liquid Highlighter
Skin Type: Combination
Texture: Liquid
Why it works: This glow-boosting liquid contains micro-pearls for an ethereal finish. It’s water-resistant and long-wearing—perfect for summer weddings or photoshoots.
Extra tip: Mix with your foundation or moisturizer for a luminous base.
🌊 KVD Beauty Metal Crush Extreme Highlighter
Skin Type: All
Texture: Pressed powder
Why it works: Intense pigment and high shimmer payoff that lasts all day—even through sweat and swimming. This highlighter is a game-changer for summer festivals.
Extra tip: Use a fan brush to apply lightly over cheekbones, nose, and collarbones.
💡 How to Make Your Highlighter Last in Hot Weather
✅ Prep Your Skin – Use an oil-free or mattifying primer. This helps your base stay intact.
✅ Use Cream or Liquid Formulas – They bond better with skin and last longer.
✅ Apply Thin Layers – Too much product = melting makeup.
✅ Set with a Setting Spray – Choose a waterproof or sweat-proof formula.
✅ Avoid Touching Your Face – Especially during humid conditions.
🏖️ Best Occasions to Use Waterproof Highlighter
Beach or Pool Days 🏝️
Summer Music Festivals 🎶
Outdoor Weddings 💍
Daily Summer Commutes ☀️
Travel & Vacations ✈️
🛒 Where to Buy the Best Waterproof Highlighters
You can find all the highlighters mentioned above on trusted beauty platforms like:
- Sephora
- Ulta Beauty
- Amazon
- Brand official websites
🔚 Final Thoughts
The summer season brings sunshine, beach trips, and lots of outdoor activities—but it also demands smarter makeup choices. A good waterproof highlighter lets you glow confidently without worrying about sweat or smudging. Whether you're going for a subtle shimmer or bold radiance, there's a product out there designed to shine with you.
💬 Let us know your favorite summer highlighter in the comments below. And don’t forget to reapply sunscreen—even over makeup! 🌞