Holographic accents: makeup with a cosmic glow

Inspired by the starlit cosmos, the holographic makeup trend is lighting up fashion shows and celebrity Instagram feeds alike. But this is more than sparkle – it’s a dance of light that shifts with the sun’s rays or the moon’s glow. Each movement reveals a new hue, and every glance in the mirror catches a flash of galactic brilliance. In this article, Elle O‘zbekiston unveils the secrets of light alchemy: from soft pink pearl to bold electric blue glitter.

At the heart of the holographic effect are microscopic light-reflecting particles, typically in shades of pink, blue, lavender, and silver. These can be found in highlighters, eyeshadows, lip glosses, and even body pigments. But this trend is more than shine – it’s about balance. Without it, the look can easily tip into disco-ball territory. To nail this luminous trend, remember three golden rules:

• For daytime looks, stick to one accent, such as a hint of holographic highlighter or a shimmering gloss.
• For the evening outing, embrace the drama: pair radiant eyeshadows with eyeliner, and coat the lips with clear gloss infused with rainbow shimmer.
• Consider your skin tone – cool shades like lavender and icy blue flatter fair skin, while warm tones like rose gold and soft pink suit deeper complexions.

photo: instagram \ @shirinnabati.makeup

To create a true holographic accent, it takes more than simply gathering every glittery product in your makeup bag – you need to consider texture, shade, and the size of the reflective particles.

These light-reflecting particles range from ultra-fine micro-shimmers to larger, semi-transparent flakes. The smaller the particle, the more delicate and subtle the glow; the larger it is, the bolder and more dramatic the glitter effect. Micro-pigments, commonly found in highlighters and liquid eyeshadows, are almost invisible to the naked eye but deliver a soft, dewy sheen. Medium-sized particles, used in cream textures and powders, create a diffused luminosity and a gentle play of color. Larger reflective elements are ideal for photography – they produce a mirrored, multidimensional shine that comes to life in motion.

photo: instagram \ @gigihadid

Texture plays a crucial role in achieving a luminous glow without the dreaded “mask” effect. Liquid and cream formulas are preferred. They’re packed with a high concentration of light-reflecting pigments, offer a dewy finish, and melt seamlessly into the skin. A perfect example is creamy shimmer eyeshadows, beloved by bridal makeup artists for their crease-proof wear, buildable intensity, and effortless application.

What sets this technique apart is the chameleon color palette – shades that reveal an entire spectrum depending on the light and angle. Choosing a tone that complements your skin undertone is key to enhancing your natural beauty. Lavender-blue creates an icy, fairy-like effect and looks especially striking on fair skin. Rose gold with an opalescent shift is a versatile option that flatters warm and neutral undertones. It seems especially radiant on sun-kissed skin.

photo: instagram \ @katyperry

The real magic of holographic makeup lies in its photogenic quality – cameras love the illusion of rainbow, chameleon, and aurora-like textures. The trend’s appeal is in its versatility: a soft glow suits everyday looks, while layered applications create bold, long-lasting evening glam.