If you’ve been anywhere near TikTok or Instagram beauty content lately, you’ve definitely seen the e.l.f. Halo Glow Liquid Filter. This $14 drugstore product has been flying off shelves, selling out repeatedly, and earning comparisons to Charlotte Tilbury’s $46 Hollywood Flawless Filter. With over 5,000 five-star reviews on Amazon and millions of views on social media, this complexion booster has officially achieved cult status. But does a $14 product really deliver the same glow-from-within effect as its luxury counterpart? After extensive testing in multiple ways, we’re giving you the complete truth about this viral sensation.
What is e.l.f. Halo Glow Liquid Filter?
The e.l.f. Halo Glow Liquid Filter is a multi-purpose complexion booster designed to give your skin a “soft-focus social filter effect IRL” (in real life). It’s a makeup-skincare hybrid that falls somewhere between a tinted moisturizer, liquid highlighter, and radiance primer—creating that coveted dewy, glowing complexion that looks naturally lit from within.
Product Specifications
- Product Name: Halo Glow Liquid Filter
- Price: $14 USD / €16 EUR / £14 GBP
- Size: 1.08 fl oz / 31.5 mL (generous!)
- Available Shades: 15 shades (expanded from original 8)
- Finish: Dewy, luminous glow
- Formula Type: Liquid complexion booster
- Key Ingredients: Squalane, Hyaluronic Acid, Finely Milled Powders
- Claims: Cruelty-free, vegan, e.l.f. clean
- Where to Buy: Ulta, Target, Amazon, e.l.f. official website, Beautybay (EU)
First Impressions: Packaging and Design
The Halo Glow Liquid Filter arrives in a substantial glass bottle that feels surprisingly luxe for a drugstore product. The frosted glass container with rose gold accents wouldn’t look out of place next to your high-end products—it’s that pretty.
Packaging highlights:
- Heavy glass bottle (feels premium, recyclable)
- Large, oversized doe-foot applicator
- Rose gold metallic cap
- Indentation in applicator that holds generous product
- Sleek, modern aesthetic
- Travel-friendly despite glass material
The jumbo doe-foot applicator is one of the standout features. It’s significantly larger than typical concealer wands, with a unique indented center that picks up just the right amount of product
without requiring multiple dips into the bottle.
Read also: Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Lipstick Review: Is It Worth The Hype in 2025?
The Formula: What Makes It Special?
Texture and Consistency
The Halo Glow Liquid Filter has a unique texture that sets it apart from both foundations and traditional highlighters. It’s:
On the applicator:
- Creamy, almost whipped consistency
- Thick but not heavy
- Slightly sticky/tacky texture
- Moves easily when first applied
During application:
- Blends like a dream with fingers or sponge
- Feels moisturizing and comfortable
- Takes 30-60 seconds to set
- Never fully “dries down” completely
After setting:
- Leaves a dewy, luminous finish
- Slightly tacky to touch (not transfer-proof)
- Creates soft-focus blur effect
- Enhances natural glow without obvious shimmer
Key Ingredients Breakdown
Squalane:
- Provides lightweight moisture
- Helps product glide smoothly
- Doesn’t clog pores
- Creates silky texture
Hyaluronic Acid:
- Hydrates and plumps skin
- Gives that “glassy” appearance
- Helps blur fine lines
- Comfortable all-day wear
Finely Milled Powders:
- Create soft-focus effect in photos
- Blur pores and imperfections
- Not visible shimmer or glitter
- Give “filtered” appearance
Film-Forming Polymers:
- Help product adhere to skin
- Create that signature glow
- Improve longevity
- Enhance blendability
The e.l.f. Halo Glow Liquid Filter
Let’s talk about what makes this product special: the glow. Unlike shimmery highlighters that sit on top of skin with obvious sparkle, the Halo Glow creates a natural, lit-from-within luminosity. It’s dewy without looking oily, radiant without looking glittery, and glowing without looking sweaty.
The secret is the combination of hydrating ingredients and those finely milled powders that catch light naturally—mimicking the way healthy, well-moisturized skin naturally reflects light.
Complete Shade Guide: All 15 Colors
e.l.f. Halo Glow Liquid Filter has expanded the Halo Glow range from 8 to 15 shades to accommodate more skin tones. Here’s the complete breakdown:
Fair to Light Shades
1. Fair
- Best for: Very fair, cool-neutral skin (Fitzpatrick I-II)
- Undertone: Slightly peachy-apricot
- Description: Lightest shade with soft warm tone
- Notes: Still may be slightly dark for very pale skin
2. Fair/Light
- Best for: Fair to light skin (Fitzpatrick II-III)
- Undertone: Warm yellow-peach
- Description: Popular shade for light complexions
- Notes: Noticeable difference from Fair (deeper and warmer)
3. Light
- Best for: Light skin (Fitzpatrick II-III)
- Undertone: Neutral-warm
- Description: True light shade with versatile undertone
- Notes: Works for many light skin tones
4. Light/Medium
- Best for: Light to medium skin (Fitzpatrick III-IV)
- Undertone: Golden-neutral
- Description: Versatile shade for in-between tones
- Notes: One of the most popular shades
Medium Shades
5. Medium
- Best for: Medium skin (Fitzpatrick IV)
- Undertone: Warm golden
- Description: True medium with golden glow
- Notes: Beautiful on olive and golden undertones
6. Medium/Tan
- Best for: Medium to tan skin (Fitzpatrick IV-V)
- Undertone: Rich warm
- Description: Deeper medium with warmth
- Notes: Gorgeous on sun-kissed complexions
7. Tan
- Best for: Tan skin (Fitzpatrick V)
- Undertone: Deep golden-bronze
- Description: Rich tan shade
- Notes: Limited reviews, newly expanded
8. Tan/Deep
- Best for: Tan to deep skin (Fitzpatrick V-VI)
- Undertone: Warm bronze
- Description: Bridge shade for deeper tones
- Notes: Part of shade expansion
Deep to Rich Shades
9. Deep
- Best for: Deep skin (Fitzpatrick VI)
- Undertone: Rich warm brown
- Description: Beautiful deep shade
- Notes: Finally offers glow for deeper skin tones
10. Rich
- Best for: Very deep skin (Fitzpatrick VI)
- Undertone: Deep warm
- Description: One of the deepest shades
- Notes: Part of inclusive expansion
Plus 5 additional shades in the expanded range covering various undertones and depth levels.
Shade Selection Tips
For cool undertones: Fair, some Light shades For neutral undertones: Light, Light/Medium, Medium For warm undertones: Fair/Light, Medium, Tan shades For olive skin: Medium, Light/Medium work beautifully For deep skin: Tan/Deep, Deep, Rich finally provide options!
Pro Tip: The formula is sheer enough that you have some flexibility with shade matching. One shade too light or dark won’t look drastically wrong, but getting the right undertone matters most.
4 Ways to Use e.l.f. Halo Glow Liquid Filter
One of the best things about this product is its versatility. Here are four proven application methods:
Method 1: As a Standalone Tinted Glow
How to apply:
- Start with clean, moisturized skin
- Dot product on forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin
- Blend with fingers, damp sponge, or buffing brush
- Build coverage as needed
- Set with concealer on any blemishes
What it looks like:
- Sheer, natural tint of color
- Radiant, glowing finish
- Your skin but better
- Freckles and natural texture show through
Best for:
- No-makeup makeup days
- Quick, easy routines
- Those with generally clear skin
- Casual everyday wear
- Summer, vacation looks
Coverage level: Sheer to light
Method 2: Under Foundation as a Glow Booster
How to apply:
- Apply primer if desired
- Blend thin layer of Halo Glow all over face
- Let set for 30 seconds
- Apply foundation on top as usual
- Notice the difference in dimension and radiance
What it looks like:
- Foundation with added luminosity
- More dimensional, less flat
- Brightened complexion
- Natural glow peeking through
Best for:
- Those wanting glowy foundation looks
- Adding life to matte foundations
- Creating depth and dimension
- Photo-ready makeup
- Special events, date nights
Pro Tip: This method is our FAVORITE way to use the product. You can see the glow comparison side-by-side—the difference is stunning, especially on the forehead, cheekbones, and under eyes.
Method 3: Mixed Into Foundation
How to apply:
- Pump foundation onto back of hand or palette
- Add 1-2 drops of Halo Glow
- Mix together thoroughly
- Apply blended mixture to face
- Enjoy dewy foundation finish
What it looks like:
- Transforms matte foundation to dewy
- Even, all-over glow
- More natural-looking coverage
- Seamless, skin-like finish
Best for:
- Those with matte foundations they want to transform
- Creating custom finish
- Controlling glow intensity
- Achieving “skin tint” effect from full coverage foundation
Ratio tips:
- 1:4 ratio (Halo Glow:Foundation) for subtle glow
- 1:2 ratio for noticeable dewiness
- 1:1 ratio for maximum glow (may affect foundation performance)
Method 4: Over Foundation as Liquid Highlighter
How to apply:
- Complete your foundation routine as normal
- Dab Halo Glow on high points of face with fingers
- Focus on: cheekbones, nose bridge, cupid’s bow, brow bone
- Gently pat to blend edges
- Add more for intensity
What it looks like:
- Natural, wet-looking highlight
- Dewy, not sparkly
- Subtle dimensional glow
- Fresh, hydrated appearance
Best for:
- Those who don’t like shimmer highlighters
- Natural, minimal makeup looks
- Mature skin (doesn’t emphasize texture)
- Creating “glass skin” effect
- Editorial, fashion-forward looks
Important note: This method can get tricky. Since the product doesn’t fully dry, layering too much over set makeup can disturb your base. Use a very light hand and pat gently rather than rubbing.
Performance: All-Day Wear Test
Longevity and Staying Power
Initial Application (0-2 Hours):
- Looks exactly as applied
- Glow is at maximum intensity
- Skin feels comfortable and moisturized
- No pilling or separation
Midday Wear (2-6 Hours):
- Glow remains strong
- May notice slight fading on oily areas (T-zone)
- No major changes to appearance
- Touch-ups not necessary
- Skin still looks fresh
Late Day Wear (6-10 Hours):
- Glow is more subtle but still present
- High-touch areas (nose, chin) may lose some radiance
- Overall look remains natural and glowing
- Some breakdown on oily skin types
- Still wearable and attractive
After 10+ Hours:
- Noticeably more faded
- Still a subtle glow remains
- Touch-ups needed for refreshed look
- Never completely disappears
- Fades gracefully rather than looking messy
Transfer and Touch Resistance
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ (3/5)
The e.l.f. Halo Glow Liquid Filter is NOT transfer-proof or smudge-proof. The formula never fully sets to a dry finish, maintaining that dewy texture throughout wear.
Will transfer onto:
- Face masks (unfortunately still relevant)
- Clothing when changing
- Hands when touching face
- Phone screens
- Partner during kissing (fair warning!)
However:
- It doesn’t rub off completely
- Transfer is minimal after first 10 minutes
- Most glow remains intact
- Sets enough to be functional
Best practice: Let it set for 2-3 minutes before touching your face or putting on masks.
Performance on Different Skin Types
Oily Skin: ⭐⭐⭐ (3/5)
- Beautiful initially, but can get too shiny
- Mix with powder or use under foundation
- May emphasize oil production
- Better for dry/normal areas only
- Consider setting with powder
- Works better in cooler weather
Dry Skin: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
- PERFECT for dry skin!
- Provides hydration and glow
- Doesn’t cling to dry patches
- Makes skin look healthy and plump
- Can wear alone comfortably
- Year-round winner
Combination Skin: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
- Works well with strategic application
- Apply heavier on dry areas, lighter on T-zone
- May need powder on oily zones
- Versatile enough to customize
- Good for most of year
Mature Skin: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
- Absolutely gorgeous on mature skin!
- Doesn’t settle into fine lines
- Provides youthful, healthy glow
- Doesn’t emphasize texture
- Better than powder highlighters
- Makeup artists love it for mature clients
Sensitive Skin: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
- Generally well-tolerated
- Contains gentle ingredients
- No fragrance
- Some may react to film-forming polymers
- Patch test first
- Most users report no issues
e.l.f. Halo Glow vs. Charlotte Tilbury Flawless Filter
The comparison everyone wants to know about: Is it really a dupe?
Price Comparison
- e.l.f. Halo Glow Liquid Filter: $14 for 31.5ml = $0.44/ml
- Charlotte Tilbury: $46 for 30ml = $1.53/ml
You’re saving: 71% by choosing e.l.f.!
Side-by-Side Comparison
Similarities:
- Both create luminous, glowing finish
- Similar dewy texture
- Multi-use capabilities (alone, under, over, mixed)
- Work beautifully under foundation
- Film-forming glow effect
- Don’t fully dry down
- Skincare-infused formulas
- Create “filtered” appearance
Differences:
e.l.f. Halo Glow Liquid Filter:
- More product (31.5ml vs 30ml)
- Thicker, creamier consistency
- Slightly more pigmented
- More affordable packaging
- Larger applicator
- Can feel sticky
- Takes longer to blend
- More shimmer visible up close
- 15 shade options
Charlotte Tilbury Flawless Filter:
- Thinner, more liquid consistency
- Blends faster and easier
- More subtle, refined glow
- Luxurious packaging experience
- Smaller, precise applicator
- Feels more lightweight
- Sets slightly better
- More natural-looking close up
- 12 shade options
The Verdict: Is It a Dupe?
YES… with caveats.
The e.l.f. Halo Glow Liquid Filter delivers 80-85% of the Charlotte Tilbury experience at 30% of the price. For most people, especially those new to glow boosters, the e.l.f. version is absolutely sufficient and delivers stunning results.
Choose e.l.f. if:
- You’re budget-conscious
- You want more product for less money
- You don’t mind slightly less refined texture
- You’re newer to makeup
- You want to try the trend without major investment
- You prefer more affordable beauty
Choose Charlotte Tilbury if:
- You value luxury packaging and experience
- You want the absolute most refined formula
- You prefer ultra-lightweight textures
- You’re a makeup professional or enthusiast
- You don’t mind the price for best quality
- You love prestige beauty
For most people: e.l.f. Halo Glow Liquid Filter version is the smarter choice. The difference in performance doesn’t justify 3x the price for everyday use.
Pros and Cons
What We Love ✨
- Incredible value at just $14 for generous 31.5ml
- Versatile 4-in-1 product replaces multiple items
- Beautiful, natural glow that looks lit from within
- Skincare ingredients actually benefit skin
- Works beautifully under foundation for added dimension
- Perfect for dry skin provides hydration and radiance
- Gorgeous on mature skin doesn’t emphasize texture
- Large applicator makes application easy and mess-free
- Substantial glass packaging feels luxurious
- Cruelty-free and vegan aligns with ethics
- Expanded shade range now includes 15 colors
- No glitter or obvious shimmer just natural glow
- Creates soft-focus effect in photos
- Easy to blend with fingers, sponge, or brush
- Beginner-friendly hard to mess up
- Travel-friendly one product, multiple uses
What Could Be Better 🤔
- Not transfer-proof will rub off on masks, clothes
- Can be too dewy for oily skin types
- Sticky texture some find uncomfortable
- Limited shade range for very fair or very deep skin (though improved)
- Sells out constantly hard to find in stock
- Can emphasize pores if you have very large pores
- Takes practice to not over-apply
- Not buildable adding more can look heavy
- Visible shimmer up close not completely natural
- Can pill with wrong products underneath
- Shade matching matters despite sheerness
- May get too shiny in hot, humid weather
- Glass packaging can break if dropped
- Blending takes time on drier skin types
- Can disturb makeup when applied over set foundation
Application Tips for Perfect Results
Do’s ✅
DO use a light hand – Less is more with this product DO blend immediately – Works best when fresh DO apply to back of hand first for better control DO use with damp sponge for airbrushed finish DO let it set before touching face or adding powder DO apply strategically on high points only if glowy skin DO mix with foundation to customize finish DO use under foundation for best results DO set T-zone with powder if oily-skinned DO store upright to prevent leaking
Don’ts ❌
DON’T apply too much – You can’t remove excess easily DON’T use on active breakouts – May emphasize texture DON’T layer multiple coats – Gets heavy and sticky DON’T apply over powder products – Can pill and look patchy DON’T expect matte finish – This is dewy by design DON’T skip moisturizer underneath – Needs hydrated base DON’T use with silicone-heavy primers – May not blend well DON’T pump bottle – Applicator provides enough product DON’T expect transfer-proof wear – It’s not that kind of product DON’T apply to dry, flaky skin without prep – Will emphasize texture
Best Dupes and Alternatives
Drugstore Alternatives
Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser ($10)
- Similar: Radiant finish, doe-foot applicator
- Different: More coverage, designed as concealer
- Verdict: More coverage, less glow
L’Oréal True Match Lumi Glotion ($14.99)
- Similar: Dewy finish, adds glow
- Different: Lighter, more liquid consistency
- Verdict: Good alternative, less versatile
NYX Born to Glow Naturally Radiant Foundation ($10)
- Similar: Glowing finish, affordable
- Different: True foundation with more coverage
- Verdict: If you want actual foundation
Flower Beauty Light Illusion ($13.99)
- Similar: Glow-giving, complexion booster
- Different: More sheer, less sticky
- Verdict: Similar concept, lighter formula
Luxury Alternatives
Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter ($46)
- The original luxury glow booster
- More refined, lightweight formula
- 3x the price
Rare Beauty Positive Light Liquid Luminizer ($25)
- Liquid highlighter alternative
- More pigmented
- Beautiful glow but different application
Glossier Futuredew ($26)
- Oil-serum hybrid for glow
- More skincare-focused
- Less makeup-like
NARS Afterglow Liquid Blush ($32)
- Liquid formula with glow
- More color, less universal
- Different purpose but similar effect
Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector Liquid ($41)
- Classic liquid highlighter
- More shimmer visible
- Less natural-looking
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use e.l.f. Halo Glow Liquid Filter as foundation?
Yes, but with limitations. The Halo Glow provides sheer to light coverage—think tinted moisturizer rather than foundation. It’s perfect for no-makeup makeup days but won’t cover significant blemishes, redness, or dark circles. For medium to full coverage, use it under actual foundation or add concealer to problem areas.
Does e.l.f. Halo Glow Liquid Filter have SPF?
No, the Halo Glow Liquid Filter does not contain SPF. You must apply sunscreen underneath as part of your skincare routine. Never rely on makeup for sun protection—always use dedicated SPF 30+ product daily.
How long does a bottle of e.l.f. Halo Glow Liquid Filter last?
With daily use (using recommended amount), one 31.5ml bottle typically lasts 3-6 months. Since you only need 3-5 dots for full face, it’s surprisingly economical. Heavy users may finish in 2-3 months, while light users can stretch it to 8+ months.
Can you use e.l.f. Halo Glow Liquid Filter with oily skin?
Yes, but strategically. Apply lighter layer, set with powder, or use only under foundation. Many oily-skinned users prefer applying it only to dry areas (cheeks, under eyes) and skipping T-zone. The waterproof Powder Filter version is better for very oily skin.
Does e.l.f. Halo Glow Liquid Filter clog pores?
The formula is non-comedogenic according to e.l.f., and most users don’t report breakouts. However, everyone’s skin reacts differently. If you’re acne-prone, patch test first and ensure you remove it thoroughly at night. The product does contain film-forming ingredients that could potentially cause issues for very sensitive or acne-prone skin.
What’s the difference between e.l.f. Halo Glow Liquid Filter and Skin Tint?
- Liquid Filter: Glow booster, multi-use, dewy finish, 15 shades
- Skin Tint: Light coverage foundation, natural finish, 24 shades
- Best for glow: Liquid Filter
- Best for coverage: Skin Tint
- Many users layer both: Liquid Filter under Skin Tint!
Can you use e.l.f. Halo Glow Liquid Filter on mature skin?
Absolutely YES! Makeup artists rave about Halo Glow on mature skin because it:
- Doesn’t settle into fine lines
- Provides youthful glow without shimmer
- Hydrates and plumps appearance
- Doesn’t emphasize texture or wrinkles
- Creates healthy, radiant look
It’s actually one of the best complexion products for 50+ skin!
Is the e.l.f. Halo Glow vegan and cruelty-free?
Yes! All e.l.f. products are 100% vegan and cruelty-free. The brand doesn’t test on animals and doesn’t use animal-derived ingredients. They’re certified by PETA and Leaping Bunny.
Why is Halo Glow always sold out?
The product went viral on TikTok and Instagram, creating massive demand. e.l.f. has struggled to keep up with production. The expanded shade range also spread inventory thinner. Your best bet: sign up for restock notifications on e.l.f. website, Ulta, and Target.
Can you wear Halo Glow in summer/hot weather?
It depends on your skin type and climate. In hot, humid weather:
- Oily skin: May get too shiny, use sparingly
- Dry skin: Still works beautifully
- All skin: Consider setting with powder or using waterproof Powder Filter version instead
For very hot days, the dewy finish may become too much for some.
Where to Buy and Current Pricing
Official Retailers
e.l.f. Cosmetics Official Website
- Price: $14
- Pros: Full shade range, restocks frequently, rewards program
- Shipping: Free over $25
Ulta Beauty
- Price: $14
- Pros: In-store availability, frequent sales, points program
- Shipping: Free over $35
Target
- Price: $14
- Pros: In-store pickup, RedCard 5% off, easy returns
- Shipping: Free over $35
Amazon
- Price: $13-15 (varies)
- Pros: Prime shipping, quick delivery
- Cons: Verify seller to avoid fakes
Beautybay (Europe)
- Price: €16-18
- Pros: Ships to EU, carries full range
- Shipping: Varies by country
Money-Saving Tips
- Join e.l.f. Beauty Squad: Earn points on purchases
- Ulta rewards: Platinum members get extra points on e.l.f.
- Target Circle: Often has e.l.f. specific offers
- Buy during sales: 40% off sales happen quarterly
- Subscribe for emails: First-to-know about restocks
- Sign up for restock alerts: Don’t miss when it’s available
- Buy multiple shades: Test which works best while in stock
How to Spot Fakes
With popularity comes counterfeits. Ensure authenticity by:
- ✅ Buying from authorized retailers only
- ✅ Checking glass bottle quality (should be heavy, smooth)
- ✅ Verifying shade name matches official list
- ✅ Ensuring cap closes magnetically and smoothly
- ✅ Checking applicator is large doe-foot with indent
- ❌ Avoid third-party Amazon sellers with no reviews
- ❌ Don’t buy from unauthorized international sites
- ❌ Be wary of “too good to be true” prices
Final Thoughts
The e.l.f. Halo Glow Liquid Filter has earned its viral status and cult-favorite reputation. At $14, it delivers a luxury glow experience for a fraction of the typical cost, proving that you don’t need to spend $46 on Charlotte Tilbury to achieve gorgeous, radiant skin.
Is it perfect? No. The sticky texture, lack of transfer resistance, and potential for too much shine on oily skin are real limitations. But for the vast majority of users—especially those with dry to normal skin—this is an absolute game-changer.
The versatility alone makes it worth buying. One bottle replaces your tinted moisturizer for minimal makeup days, your glow primer for full glam, your liquid highlighter for natural looks, and can even transform your matte foundation into a dewy dream. That’s incredible value.
Our Rating: 4.5/5 ⭐
Bottom Line: A genuinely impressive glow booster that punches way above its $14 price tag. The viral fame is well-deserved, and this deserves a permanent spot in your makeup routine—IF you can find it in stock!
Quick Reference Guide
Best Application Method: Under foundation Best Skin Type: Dry, normal, mature Best Shade: Fair/Light (most popular), Light/Medium (versatile) Best Dupe For: Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter Best Season: Fall, Winter, Spring (Summer with caution) Best For Beginners: YES Repurchase-Worthy: ABSOLUTELY
Have you tried the e.l.f. Halo Glow Liquid Filter? Which shade did you choose and how do you use it? Share your tips and tricks in the comments below! Are you Team Under-Foundation or Team Standalone Glow?
This review is based on extensive personal testing over several months with multiple shades. We may earn commission from purchases made through affiliate links in this article, which helps support our content at no extra cost to you. All opinions are 100% honest and our own.
