
Global Liquid Highlighter Market Insights, Size, and Forecast By Application (Face, Body, Eyes), By Type (Matte Highlighter, Shimmer Highlighter, Glitter Highlighter, Pearl Highlighter), By Distribution Channel (Online Retail, Offline Retail, Specialty Stores), By End Use (Personal Care, Professional Use), By Region (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East and Africa), Key Companies, Competitive Analysis, Trends, and Projections for 2026-2035
Key Market Insights
Global Liquid Highlighter Market is projected to grow from USD 1.45 Billion in 2025 to USD 2.98 Billion by 2035, reflecting a compound annual growth rate of 6.7% from 2026 through 2035. The Liquid Highlighter Market encompasses the global sales of cosmetic products designed to add a luminous sheen or glow to the skin, primarily targeting facial features. These highlighters are characterized by their liquid or fluid consistency, offering a blendable and buildable application compared to powder counterparts. The market is propelled by several key drivers, including the expanding influence of social media and beauty influencers showcasing highlighter application techniques, a growing consumer preference for a natural dewy makeup look, and continuous product innovation by manufacturers introducing new formulations and shades. Furthermore, rising disposable incomes in developing regions, coupled with increasing beauty consciousness among younger demographics, contribute significantly to market expansion. However, market growth faces restraints such as the potential for skin irritation from certain formulations, the challenge of product differentiation in a saturated market, and the perceived premium pricing of high quality liquid highlighters which can deter price sensitive consumers. Despite these challenges, the market presents significant opportunities through the development of clean beauty and sustainable liquid highlighter options, expanding into emerging markets with tailored product offerings, and leveraging e commerce platforms for broader reach and direct to consumer sales.
Global Liquid Highlighter Market Value (USD Billion) Analysis, 2025-2035

2025 - 2035
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Important trends shaping the Global Liquid Highlighter Market include the increasing demand for multifunctional products that offer skincare benefits alongside cosmetic enhancement, a shift towards inclusive shade ranges catering to diverse skin tones, and the rising popularity of vegan and cruelty free formulations. The market is segmented by type, with shimmer highlighters currently holding the dominant share, appealing to consumers seeking a noticeable glow. Other segments include by application, distribution channel, and end use, each contributing to the market's dynamic landscape. North America stands as the dominant region in the liquid highlighter market, driven by a well established beauty industry, high consumer spending on cosmetics, and the strong presence of major beauty brands. The region benefits from a significant beauty influencer culture and a high adoption rate of new beauty trends. This dominance is further supported by robust distribution networks and a highly competitive market environment fostering innovation.
Conversely, Southeast Asia is emerging as the fastest growing region for liquid highlighters. This rapid growth is attributed to a burgeoning young population, increasing urbanization, rising disposable incomes, and a strong cultural emphasis on personal grooming and beauty. The region is witnessing a significant increase in internet penetration and social media usage, which fuels demand for trending beauty products, including liquid highlighters. Local and international brands are actively expanding their presence in this region, tailoring products to local preferences and leveraging digital marketing strategies. Key players in the global liquid highlighter market include prismacolor, fabercastell, brian, maped, sakura, stabilo, sharpie, art supplies, montblanc, and artline. These companies employ various strategies such as extensive research and development to introduce innovative formulations, strategic collaborations with beauty influencers, aggressive marketing campaigns to enhance brand visibility, and expanding their distribution networks both online and offline to reach a wider customer base. They also focus on diversifying their product portfolios to cater to different consumer needs and price points, ensuring continued competitiveness and market relevance.
Quick Stats
Market Size (2025):
USD 1.45 BillionProjected Market Size (2035):
USD 2.98 BillionLeading Segment:
Shimmer Highlighter (52.8% Share)Dominant Region (2025):
North America (34.2% Share)CAGR (2026-2035):
6.7%
Global Liquid Highlighter Market Emerging Trends and Insights
Skincare Infused Luminizers Rise
Consumers are increasingly prioritizing holistic beauty, leading to a surge in skincare infused luminizers. This trend reflects a demand for products that offer both cosmetic enhancement and functional benefits. Liquid highlighters are no longer just about shimmer; they are formulated with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, antioxidants, and vitamins. This fusion addresses concerns about skin health while delivering a radiant glow. Brands are responding by launching innovative products that blur the lines between makeup and skincare. The rise of these hybrid formulations caters to individuals seeking a natural, healthy luminosity without compromising their skin's well being. This shift signifies a move towards mindful consumption, where beauty products contribute positively to overall skin health, driving sustained growth in the liquid highlighter segment.
Sustainable Glow Solutions Flourish
Consumers increasingly seek liquid highlighters aligning with ethical and environmental values. This trend, "Sustainable Glow Solutions Flourish," signifies a growing demand for products that offer aesthetic benefits without compromising planetary or social well being. Brands are responding by formulating highlighters with natural, plant based ingredients, shunning microplastics and harsh chemicals. Refillable packaging systems and recyclable materials are becoming commonplace, reducing waste. Furthermore, companies are highlighting cruelty free testing, fair trade practices, and transparent sourcing of ingredients, appealing to a conscious consumer base. This shift reflects a broader societal movement towards mindful consumption, where beauty purchasing decisions are driven not only by product performance but also by a brand’s commitment to sustainability and ethical responsibility, fostering a guilt free radiance.
Gen Z Driven Inclusive Shades Emerge
Gen Z's powerful influence is transforming the global liquid highlighter market, as demand for inclusive shades skyrockets. This demographic, valuing authenticity and representation, actively seeks products reflecting diverse skin tones. Brands are responding by formulating and launching broader spectrums of highlighter shades, moving beyond traditional light and medium options. These new collections feature deeper bronzes, cooler silvers, and warmer golds, catering to a wider array of complexions previously underserved. This trend emphasizes individual expression and challenges conventional beauty standards, driving innovation in product development and marketing strategies. Gen Z’s purchasing power and social media presence are key catalysts, pushing brands towards genuine inclusivity rather than token gestures, reshaping industry norms for the better.
What are the Key Drivers Shaping the Global Liquid Highlighter Market
Rising Consumer Demand for Radiant & Luminous Skin Finishes
The increasing desire among consumers for skin that radiates a healthy, lit-from-within glow is a significant driver in the global liquid highlighter market. This trend reflects a broader beauty ideal emphasizing luminosity and a natural yet refined appearance. Social media and influencer culture play a crucial role, showcasing diverse applications and aspirational glowing complexions. Consumers seek products that offer a visible yet seamless sheen, enhancing facial features with a youthful, dewy finish rather than a glittery or overly shimmery look. This demand extends across demographics, from those seeking a subtle daily boost to individuals desiring a more dramatic effect for special occasions, fueling innovation and product development in liquid highlighter formulations.
Expansion of Social Media & Influencer Marketing in Beauty
The expansion of social media and influencer marketing significantly propels the global liquid highlighter market. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok provide powerful visual mediums for showcasing product application, textures, and finished looks. Beauty influencers, through tutorials, reviews, and sponsored content, directly demonstrate how liquid highlighters create a radiant, dewy glow, captivating vast audiences. Their authenticity and relatable content build trust and drive purchase intent among followers who aspire to replicate similar looks. Brands leverage these collaborations to reach wider demographics and generate buzz. This digital word of mouth and visual appeal, amplified by user generated content and viral trends like the glazed donut skin, directly translates into heightened demand for liquid highlighters, making them a must have in beauty routines.
Product Innovation & Diversification in Liquid Highlighter Formulations
Brands are continuously investing in novel ingredient combinations and sophisticated dispensing mechanisms to captivate consumers. This involves developing liquid highlighters with unique textures such as water gel oil drop or serum infused formulations offering enhanced skin benefits like hydration or anti aging properties. Diversification extends to a broader spectrum of finishes beyond the traditional dewy or shimmery encompassing metallic holographic or multi chrome effects. Furthermore companies are exploring expanded shade ranges catering to a wider array of skin tones and undertones ensuring inclusivity. Innovations in packaging like doe foot applicators or pump dispensers that control product flow also contribute to a superior user experience. This relentless pursuit of newness and variety directly fuels market expansion by stimulating repeat purchases and attracting new users seeking cutting edge beauty solutions.
Global Liquid Highlighter Market Restraints
Lack of Awareness and Accessibility in Developing Regions
The limited understanding and availability of liquid highlighters in developing regions significantly hinder market expansion. Many consumers in these areas are unfamiliar with the product’s purpose, application, and benefits due to a lack of targeted marketing and educational initiatives. Distribution networks are often underdeveloped, making it difficult for highlighters to reach potential buyers beyond major urban centers. Economic disparities also play a role, as highlighters may be perceived as luxury items, unaffordable or unnecessary for a significant portion of the population. This combined lack of product knowledge and physical accessibility prevents wider adoption and limits the market’s growth potential in these crucial emerging economies. Overcoming these hurdles requires localized education campaigns and robust distribution strategies.
Intense Competition from Established Brands and Niche Players
The global liquid highlighter market faces a significant challenge from the entrenched presence of established beauty brands and the proliferation of specialized niche players. Major cosmetic giants, with their extensive distribution networks, deep pockets for marketing, and strong brand loyalty, dominate consumer perception and market share. These large companies often possess superior research and development capabilities, allowing them to innovate faster and respond to trends more effectively.
Simultaneously, a growing number of niche brands are carving out segments by focusing on unique formulations, ethical sourcing, or specific consumer demographics. These agile players, though smaller, can quickly capture particular market demands and foster dedicated communities. Both types of competitors contribute to an intensely crowded landscape, making it difficult for new entrants or smaller brands to gain visibility, secure shelf space, and attract a substantial customer base in this dynamic market.
Global Liquid Highlighter Market Opportunities
Skincare-Infused & Clean Beauty Formulations: Capitalizing on Demand for Multi-Benefit and Sustainable Liquid Highlighters
The global liquid highlighter market offers a significant opportunity in skincare infused and clean beauty formulations. Consumers increasingly prioritize multi benefit products that merge cosmetic appeal with genuine skin health advantages. Liquid highlighters enriched with hydrating, nourishing, or protective ingredients fulfill the desire for both a radiant glow and skincare efficacy. This trend perfectly aligns with the growing demand for clean beauty, emphasizing ingredient transparency, ethical sourcing, and sustainable practices. Brands can innovate by developing formulations free from undesirable chemicals, utilizing naturally derived components, and ensuring eco friendly production. Capitalizing on this requires strategic focus on responsible sourcing, transparent manufacturing, and clear communication of product benefits. The rapid market expansion, particularly in Southeast Asia, highlights immense potential. This demographic actively seeks innovative, health conscious, and sustainable beauty solutions, making them prime targets for multi functional liquid highlighters. This approach satisfies evolving consumer values for holistic wellbeing and beauty.
Emerging Market & Gen Z Penetration: Leveraging Digital Strategies for Liquid Highlighter Growth in New Demographics
The significant opportunity involves strategically engaging Gen Z consumers across high growth emerging markets, especially in regions like Southeast Asia. This demographic is inherently digital savvy, highly influenced by social media trends, and embraces self expression through beauty. Liquid highlighters, celebrated for their versatile glow, perfectly resonate with Gen Zs preference for personalized, camera ready looks that thrive online.
Success hinges on implementing targeted digital strategies. This includes leveraging beauty influencers for authentic product demonstrations, producing viral short form video content, fostering user generated campaigns, and optimizing mobile first e commerce platforms. Brands must educate these new consumers on application techniques and product benefits via accessible online tutorials, driving desire and trial. This direct digital engagement circumvents traditional barriers, efficiently connecting with a tech native generation keen on discovering innovative beauty solutions, thereby unlocking substantial liquid highlighter growth within previously unreached consumer bases.
Global Liquid Highlighter Market Segmentation Analysis
Key Market Segments
By Type
- •Matte Highlighter
- •Shimmer Highlighter
- •Glitter Highlighter
- •Pearl Highlighter
By Application
- •Face
- •Body
- •Eyes
By Distribution Channel
- •Online Retail
- •Offline Retail
- •Specialty Stores
By End Use
- •Personal Care
- •Professional Use
Segment Share By Type
Share, By Type, 2025 (%)
- Matte Highlighter
- Shimmer Highlighter
- Glitter Highlighter
- Pearl Highlighter

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Why is Shimmer Highlighter dominating the Global Liquid Highlighter Market?
Shimmer Highlighter holds the largest share due to its versatile appeal, offering a luminous, radiant glow that complements a wide range of skin tones and makeup looks. This type provides a natural looking sheen without being overtly glittery, making it highly preferred for everyday wear and special occasions alike. Its ability to create a soft focused, reflective finish enhances facial features subtly, driving significant consumer demand across personal care applications.
How do distribution channels influence consumer access to liquid highlighters?
Distribution channels play a pivotal role in product availability and consumer purchasing behavior. Online Retail provides unparalleled convenience and a broad selection, attracting tech savvy consumers. Meanwhile, Offline Retail and Specialty Stores offer a crucial hands on experience, allowing customers to test products and receive expert advice, which is vital for building trust and ensuring satisfaction, especially for premium or niche brands.
What distinct needs are addressed by the various application segments for liquid highlighters?
The application segments cater to diverse consumer beauty routines and preferences. Face applications remain primary, targeting areas like cheekbones and brow bones for overall radiance. Body applications extend this luminosity to larger areas like collarbones and shoulders for a full body glow, particularly for events. Eyes applications focus on delicate areas such as inner corners and under the brow arch, offering targeted brightening and highlighting effects.
Global Liquid Highlighter Market Regulatory and Policy Environment Analysis
The global liquid highlighter market navigates a diverse regulatory landscape driven by consumer safety and transparency. In the European Union, Regulation 1223/2009 imposes stringent ingredient restrictions, mandatory safety assessments, and comprehensive labeling requirements. This framework prohibits certain substances and mandates detailed product information. The United States Food and Drug Administration FDA primarily oversees cosmetic safety through ingredient disclosure and proper labeling to prevent misbranding, with less emphasis on pre market approval for ingredients. Across Asia Pacific, regulations are evolving, with China's National Medical Products Administration NMPA requiring product registration, ingredient filing, and sometimes animal testing for imported cosmetics. ASEAN nations follow the ASEAN Cosmetic Directive, harmonizing ingredient lists and labeling. Animal testing bans, prevalent in the EU and India, impact global product development. Adherence to Good Manufacturing Practices GMP ISO 22716 is widely expected, ensuring product quality and consumer protection globally. Emerging policy trends focus on ingredient scrutiny, sustainability claims, and microplastic content.
Which Emerging Technologies Are Driving New Trends in the Market?
The Global Liquid Highlighter Market is experiencing significant transformation through innovation and emerging technologies. Advanced formulations are integrating skincare benefits, featuring ingredients like hyaluronic acid and vitamins to offer hydration alongside luminosity. Pigment science is evolving, creating highlighters with adaptable shades and customizable glow intensities for diverse skin tones.
Digital innovations are crucial, with augmented reality AR try on apps and artificial intelligence AI driven shade matching tools enhancing consumer personalization and purchasing confidence. Sustainable practices are also emerging, focusing on eco friendly ingredients and refillable packaging solutions to meet growing consumer demand for clean beauty. Precision applicators and multi functional liquid highlighters, suitable for eyes, face, and body, represent further product diversification. These advancements are collectively elevating product performance, user experience, and market appeal.
Global Liquid Highlighter Market Regional Analysis
Global Liquid Highlighter Market
Trends, by Region

North America Market
Revenue Share, 2025
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Dominant Region
North America · 34.2% share
North America stands as the dominant region in the Global Liquid Highlighter Market, holding a significant 34.2% market share. This dominance is driven by several key factors. High disposable incomes and a strong beauty culture among consumers contribute significantly to demand. The presence of major cosmetic brands with extensive marketing campaigns and wide distribution networks further solidifies North America's leading position. Additionally, the region benefits from early adoption of beauty trends and a robust e-commerce infrastructure, making products easily accessible. Consumer preference for premium beauty products and innovative formulations also plays a crucial role in maintaining this substantial market presence.
Fastest Growing Region
Southeast Asia · 9.2% CAGR
Southeast Asia emerges as the fastest growing region in the Global Liquid Highlighter Market, projected to expand at a robust Compound Annual Growth Rate of 9.2% from 2026 to 2035. This significant growth is fueled by a burgeoning young population with increasing disposable incomes and a strong inclination towards K-beauty and Western makeup trends. Social media influencers and accessible e-commerce platforms play a pivotal role in driving product awareness and demand across the region. Furthermore, local and international beauty brands are actively expanding their presence and product offerings, catering to diverse skin tones and preferences. Urbanization and a growing middle class also contribute to the heightened demand for cosmetic products, positioning Southeast Asia as a key market for liquid highlighters.
Impact of Geopolitical and Macroeconomic Factors
Geopolitical shifts impact the Global Liquid Highlighter Market through supply chain disruptions and changes in consumer purchasing power. Trade tensions, for instance, can elevate raw material costs for ingredients like pigments and emollients, affecting profit margins and potentially leading to higher retail prices. Regional conflicts or political instability in key manufacturing hubs for cosmetic components could cause significant delays or shortages. Furthermore, fluctuating exchange rates, often driven by geopolitical events, alter the cost of imported goods and the competitiveness of exports, influencing market dynamics and investment decisions.
Macroeconomic factors play a crucial role. Inflationary pressures, whether from supply side constraints or increased demand, reduce real disposable income, potentially shifting consumer spending away from discretionary items like liquid highlighters. Recessions or periods of slower economic growth dampen consumer confidence, leading to a decline in non essential purchases. Conversely, strong economic growth and rising employment rates typically boost consumer spending on beauty products. Interest rate hikes, aimed at controlling inflation, increase borrowing costs for businesses, impacting their investment capacity in research, development, and marketing for new liquid highlighter formulations and market expansion.
Recent Developments
- March 2025
Sharpie unveiled a new 'GlowUp' line of liquid highlighters, featuring quick-dry, smudge-proof formulas in a broader spectrum of iridescent shades. This launch aims to capture a larger share of the artistic and professional design market, emphasizing long-lasting vibrancy.
- June 2025
Stabilo and Sakura announced a strategic partnership to co-develop a biodegradable liquid highlighter range. This collaboration focuses on sustainable product innovation, utilizing plant-based pigments and recyclable packaging to appeal to environmentally conscious consumers.
- September 2024
Prismacolor acquired Brian, a smaller but innovative company known for its specialty glitter liquid highlighters. This acquisition allows Prismacolor to expand its premium offerings and integrate Brian's unique glitter technology into its existing product lines, targeting the growing demand for artistic embellishments.
- February 2025
Maped introduced a 'HydraGlow' series of liquid highlighters with integrated aloe vera for a smoother application and reduced paper bleed-through. This product launch is a strategic initiative to differentiate in a competitive market by focusing on user experience and document preservation.
Key Players Analysis
Prismacolor, Faber-Castell, Sakura, and Stabilo are key players in the global liquid highlighter market, leveraging advanced ink technologies for vibrant, long lasting formulas. Their strategic initiatives include expanding color ranges and eco-friendly options. Sharpie and Montblanc target premium segments, emphasizing precise applicators and luxury branding. Artline and Maped focus on affordability and accessibility, driving market growth through diverse product offerings and widespread distribution.
List of Key Companies:
- prismacolor
- fabercastell
- brian
- maped
- sakura
- stabilo
- sharpie
- art supplies
- montblanc
- artline
- pilot
- zebra
- edubox
- crayola
Report Scope and Segmentation
| Report Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Market Size (2025) | USD 1.45 Billion |
| Forecast Value (2035) | USD 2.98 Billion |
| CAGR (2026-2035) | 6.7% |
| Base Year | 2025 |
| Historical Period | 2020-2025 |
| Forecast Period | 2026-2035 |
| Segments Covered |
|
| Regional Analysis |
|
Table of Contents:
List of Figures
List of Tables
Table 1: Global Liquid Highlighter Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Type, 2020-2035
Table 2: Global Liquid Highlighter Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 3: Global Liquid Highlighter Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Distribution Channel, 2020-2035
Table 4: Global Liquid Highlighter Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 5: Global Liquid Highlighter Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Region, 2020-2035
Table 6: North America Liquid Highlighter Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Type, 2020-2035
Table 7: North America Liquid Highlighter Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 8: North America Liquid Highlighter Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Distribution Channel, 2020-2035
Table 9: North America Liquid Highlighter Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 10: North America Liquid Highlighter Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country, 2020-2035
Table 11: Europe Liquid Highlighter Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Type, 2020-2035
Table 12: Europe Liquid Highlighter Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 13: Europe Liquid Highlighter Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Distribution Channel, 2020-2035
Table 14: Europe Liquid Highlighter Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 15: Europe Liquid Highlighter Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country/ Sub-region, 2020-2035
Table 16: Asia Pacific Liquid Highlighter Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Type, 2020-2035
Table 17: Asia Pacific Liquid Highlighter Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 18: Asia Pacific Liquid Highlighter Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Distribution Channel, 2020-2035
Table 19: Asia Pacific Liquid Highlighter Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 20: Asia Pacific Liquid Highlighter Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country/ Sub-region, 2020-2035
Table 21: Latin America Liquid Highlighter Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Type, 2020-2035
Table 22: Latin America Liquid Highlighter Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 23: Latin America Liquid Highlighter Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Distribution Channel, 2020-2035
Table 24: Latin America Liquid Highlighter Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 25: Latin America Liquid Highlighter Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country/ Sub-region, 2020-2035
Table 26: Middle East & Africa Liquid Highlighter Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Type, 2020-2035
Table 27: Middle East & Africa Liquid Highlighter Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 28: Middle East & Africa Liquid Highlighter Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Distribution Channel, 2020-2035
Table 29: Middle East & Africa Liquid Highlighter Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 30: Middle East & Africa Liquid Highlighter Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country/ Sub-region, 2020-2035
