Kevyn Aucoin The Celestial Skin Liquid Illuminating Emulsion ($52.00 for 1.0 fl. oz.) is supposed to be a “long-wearing formula” that can be used as a “primer, foundation, or even a highlighter.” It says it can last as long as 12 hours. It has a lightweight, thin, liquid-y consistency with a warm, golden sheen. The powder version of Candlelight The Celestial Powder is much more beige, less golden/yellow. See comparison swatches against some golden powder highlighters. The most comparable shade with a similar formula that I could think of was Giorgio Armani No. 10, which is liquid as well, but it is warmer, darker. Other formulas that have similar consistencies would be MAC Lustre Drops, MAC Strobe Liquid, and Tom Ford Skin Illuminator.

The consistency definitely lends itself to an easier all-over application, whether applied alone as a primer before foundation or mixed with your favorite liquid or cream foundation. I mixed this with Guerlain Parure de Lumiere, and it seemed to extend wear slightly by a half hour or so, but I didn’t feel like it really contributed to added longevity. It did, however, add all-over luminosity and gave my skin an even better, more lit-from-within appearance. It doesn’t emphasize pores or skin imperfections, while the consistency spreads easily across the skin, whether bare, mixed with foundation, or patted on as a highlighter. When I tried it patted on the cheek bones, down the bridge of the nose, and above the cupid’s bow to highlight, it had a soft, dewy, candlelit glow for about nine hours (not twelve, though). It really seemed to give skin a lovely natural radiance and smoother, healthier appearance overall.

It’s backordered at the moment at Nordstrom, but Neiman Marcus has it in stock.

Kevyn Aucoin The Celestial Skin Liquid Illuminating Emulsion

Kevyn Aucoin The Celestial Skin Liquid Illuminating Emulsion

Kevyn Aucoin The Celestial Skin Liquid Illuminating Emulsion

Kevyn Aucoin The Celestial Skin Liquid Illuminating Emulsion

Kevyn Aucoin The Celestial Skin Liquid Illuminating Emulsion

Kevyn Aucoin The Celestial Skin Liquid Illuminating Emulsion mixed with foundation
(with Chanel Sonate Glossimer on lips)