Patrick Ta Major Glow Crème & Powder Light Reflecting Translucent Highlighter Duo Review: Teen Vogue Tries

Welcome to Teen Vogue Tries, a series where Teen Vogue editors try out some of the newest releases – from fashion to beauty and beyond – to help you go beyond the hype.

By Teen Vogue
July 5, 2024

Though the Patrick Ta highlighter’s release was highly-anticipated, especially after the success of the blush, it ended up getting mixed reviews. Some users found the shine to be underwhelming, expressing that they wanted a brighter shine. Others appreciated the subtle glow, affirming that it has a skin-like finish that’s optimal for everyday wear.

As always, to go beyond the hype (and, this time, the hate), Teen Vogue editors tried the Patrick Ta Major Glow Crème & Powder Light Reflecting Translucent Highlighter Duo ourselves and shared our unfiltered thoughts. Read on for our honest reviews.

Daddy

I hate to say it, babes, but this highlighter isn’t it for me. I’ve completely cut out foundation from my routine, so I’m constantly on the lookout for products that will make me glow because my bare skin is fairly dull, and this missed the mark. Maybe I’m subconsciously attracted to a more dramatic highlight, but this was almost too subtle for me. The shades are gorgeous, but it felt like they didn’t show up on me at all, especially when I used the powder on its own.

I saw some success when I layered the creme over the powder like the directions instruct in order to mimic “Patrick’s Signature Technique,” but admittedly I was a little thrown by it. Putting the creme on top felt redundant and like I was just pushing around the powder on my skin instead of amplifying it. In my opinion, the creme stands better on its own, and the powder I don’t see myself using repeatedly. Back to the drawing board. – Jillian Selzer, Social Media Manager

Baby

Based on the videos online, I wasn’t expecting to be so pleasantly surprised when I tried this. And, I think it’s because I went with a method that worked a little better for me.

I started by applying the powder on my cheekbones, the tip of my nose, and my Cupid’s bow with my fingers. It goes on very easily and is very spreadable. You only need one swipe, and you get a nice glow that looks like it’s coming from within — cloud makeup style. The powder is totally sufficient on its own, but it is Patrick Ta, so I had to try his method, of course! It did dull some of the sparkle of the powder for me though. And while the cream looked good on its own for more of a shiny wet look, it works for more of a no-makeup makeup style, and I had almost full glam.

I’m notorious for not following directions (like putting the Rhode blush directly on my face — oops!), so when that didn’t work as I imagined, I tried it my own way. (Sorry Patrick!) Before the cream dried, I put on a swipe of powder over it again, and I was so happy with the results. The powder held on to it really well, and overall, the two highlighters gave me such a nice and subtle glow that is perfect for every day use.

I do understand everyone’s opinions. Yes, it’s not super pigmented. Yes, it’s more sparkly than shimmery. At the end of the day, beauty is about finding what works best for you and everyone is different! I do think, however, that it’s a product of the time. It fits newer trends that place more emphasis on base and blush. I think it works quite well with these recent makeup styles and everyday looks, so I will be adding them to my routine! – Donya Momenian, Associate Fashion & Beauty Editor