How to Make the Most of Hollywood Flawless Filter

Odds are you’ve seen—or at least heard of—Charlotte Tilbury’s Hollywood Flawless Filter by now. Maybe it was on your Discover or For You page or you were introduced through a friend that literally couldn’t stop raving about it. Either way, the hype around Charlotte Tilbury’s possibly most popular product seems way too good to be true.

While the claims and reviews are unanimously positive, I also found them a bit.. confusing? If it blurs, smooths, and illuminates the complexion, is it a foundation alternative or a highlighter? Where exactly would it fit in my makeup routine and how would I use it? I put it to the test, and turns out, there are four (!) equally impressive ways to use the complexion enhancer.

Solo dolo

Worn alone on bare skin, it’s perfect for a no-makeup makeup look. Even though the formula is pretty sheer, it’ll add the fresh radiance we’re all after—while looking like you have nothing on. I applied it evenly all over the face with my fingers for the subtle, youthful-looking glow we all wish we woke up with, but you could also use a brush or damp sponge.

Ace your base

Use it as a primer to help blur imperfections, smooth skin, and add a dewy finish before following with your makeup routine. The soft radiance will peek through for the ultimate lit-from-within glow and offer the perfect smooth, dewy canvas for the rest of your makeup.

Mix it up

While the multitasker boasts countless benefits on its own, it won’t give you the same coverage as a foundation or concealer. If that’s what you’re looking for, try mixing Hollywood Flawless Filter with your favorite complexion product.

Pro-tip: it’s a great way to enhance matte formulas with some radiance—without compromising on coverage—for the best of both worlds. Mix the products on the back of your hand and apply as you normally would with either a foundation brush or damp sponge.

Hi, Light

Wear it just on the high points of your face—tops of the cheekbones, down the nose, and along the cupid’s bow—with or without makeup. With its subtle, non-glittery glow, it’s the perfect way to illuminate your features. Just blend lightly with your fingers, and you’re good to glow.

No matter how you wear it, this magical liquid formula bottles up the perfect dewy glow—without any sparkles—and does indeed live up to the hype.