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What Is Body Shimmer?

Body shimmer is a cosmetic product applied to the skin in the hopes of giving it a radiant and healthy glow. It typically comes in a liquid or powdered form. The powdered type is applied to the skin with a Kabuki-style brush or puff. Some body shimmer products come in a vitamin-fortified dry oil spray, specially formulated to hydrate the skin.

The sheen of body shimmer usually ranges from a light, iridescent dust, to a sparkle, to intensely twinkling glitter, depending on which product is used and how heavily it is applied. Colors range from translucent to neon. Most are also lightly scented.

Body shimmer can be purchased at body care supply stores, online, or at most retailers that sell cosmetics. Some shimmer lotions and powders are organic and can be purchased at specialty stores, but they may be considerably more expensive than those found in chain drug stores or superstores. Other types note that they have not been subjected to animal testing. For people with sensitive skin, shimmers may also be hypoallergenic or come without harsh chemicals, dyes, or artificial fragrances.

Typically, body shimmer can be applied to the face or virtually any part of the body. Usually, make-up is applied first, though it can also be used in place of eye shadow or blush, or lightly dusted on for an all-over glow. Body shimmer usually is applied with a Kabuki brush to the face or eyelids, as well as the décolletage, shoulders, arms, and legs to give the appearance of glowing skin. A Kabuki brush is a full dome-shaped brush made of animal hair that applies powder evenly. Synthetic Kabuki brushes can also be used for shimmer or glitter dusting powder.

Body shimmer may be worn day or night. Usually worn by ladies, shimmer could be worn by men, as well. If body shimmer cosmetics are too expensive, they can also be made at home by mixing cosmetic glitter or crushed sparkly eye shadow with lotion. Craft glitter should not to be used as a substitute for making it. As with most products applied to the skin, it can clog pores or cause allergic reactions. As a result, testing a small, inconspicuous area first is often recommended.

Written by Lisa Love