The 20 Best Body Shimmers for Glowing All Summer Long (2024)

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Best Overall

Fenty Beauty lovers were already head over heels for their skincare and makeup, so adding a body shimmer was the icing on the cake. Whether you’re reaching for the OG Trophy Wife or the new addition Cognac Candy, you’ll see a dewy finish that would make the sun itself envious. And we can’t forget its signature scent—floral vanilla.

Best Splurge

If you’re going to splurge on a body shimmer, consider adding this one to your cart. While it’ll leave you a healthy glow, it’s the lasting scent that’ll have people doing a double take when you walk by. Key notes like bergamot, ylang-ylang and cardamom oil are worth the $100 price tag. (Trust us.)

Best Lightweight Formula

The last thing you want is for your highlighter to feel greasy and/or thick. Thankfully, this highlighter is lightweight (thanks to its water-based formula) and absorbs nicely into the skin for a natural glow. Plus, it’s transfer-resistant, so no worries about it getting on your outfit.

Best Moisturizing Formula

A body oil that illuminates the skin and provides skincare benefits? Sign us up. Its core ingredients—vitamin E, olive oil and squalene—moisturizes and smooths the skin while leaving a nice shimmer behind.

Best Color Range

While some shimmers come in limited shade options, this brand has 16 (yes,16) options to choose from. Whether you want Sterling Silver, Lilac or Sangria, let the oil match any look. And the coconut, argan and marula oils blend is a nice touch.

Buy It ($16)

Best Sunscreen

Yup, a shimmering sunscreen exists, and this $8 find is proof. The lotion provides sun protection (with SPF 15) and a striking shine to show off at the beach. Plus, it’s water-resistant so you can take a dip in the pool and still maintain the radiant finish.

Buy It ($8)

Best Bronzed Glow

Skip the self-tanners and reach for this oil instead. The vegan formula (featuring oils like rosehip, sunflower and avocado) boosts the shade what did you mean by “boosts the shade”? so you’ll look like you’ve been on vacay all summer long.

Best Lotion

Move over, body oils and powders. This body lotion is giving glowing and hydrating skin. The ingredients (aka shea butter, coconut oil, coconut milk and acacia senegal) softens, smooths and provides the shine you didn’t know you wanted in a lotion.

Best Scent

This body oil checks all the boxes on glow, hydration and protection but it’s the fragrance that has us applying it everywhere. Why? You’ll find shea butter, coconut oil and mica make up the signature scent.

Best Oil

A little goes a long way for a soft, subtle glow (with a slight tint). The cupuacu butter, acai oil and coconut oil blend nourishes and conditions the skin.

Best Cream

The key ingredient—argan oil—is the star of this body butter. The creamy texture leaves it lightweight, hydrating and smooth on the skin. And if you are looking for that bronze look, you’ve come to the right place.

Buy It ($32)

Best Pigment

Sorry, this is not for the subtle glow folks. This $38 pick is going to make sure you’re glistening at your next BBQ. The formula is drenched in golden sparkles with a coconut-vanilla scent for the perfect summer combo.

Best for Contouring

FYI, contouring is not only for your face. This lotion lets you sculpt and shape your features while leaving a lasting shine. And with its core ingredients like rosehip oil, hyaluronic acid and aloe vera extract, expect your skin to be hydrated, plump and firm.

Best Subtle Glow

Want the glow without looking like a glittery disco ball? Grab this body cream for a combination of smooth skin and a subtle sheen. The blend (aka mica, silk protein and goat milk) nourishes the skin even after summer is over.

Buy It ($38)

Best for Dry Skin

Say goodbye to dryness when this body oil is around. The natural oils (jojoba, sunflower, macadamia and apricot kernel) soothe dry skin and provide a boost of moisture. And yes, expect a subtle glow for daily use.

Best Multitasker

Give your body and your face some dewy attention. This liquid highlighter works everywhere to enhance your complexion. Plus, you can mix it into your foundation, sunscreen or wear it alone.

Best Spray

Let’s be honest: Some body shimmers can be a bit...messy. However, this spray can reach all your desired areas without worry. Just a spritz onto the skin (or your hair) is all you need for an all-day shine.

Best Long-Lasting Finish

Don’t you hate applying body shimmer and watching it fade after an hour? Well, this luminizing bronzer is here to stay. The jojoba extract-infused formula absorbs onto the skin quickly (so no transfer) and leaves a radiant finish (even if you’re thrown into the pool).

Best Budget

Psst, you don’t have to spend loads of $$$ for a sun-kissed complexion. This body oil enhances your natural glow while keeping your skin super moisturized. And for $10? We’re grabbing a bottle (or two).

Best Triple Threat

Your beauty cabinet can finally get the minimalism treatment. This 3-in-1 illuminates, protects and hydrates the skin. It’s a body lotion that acts like a shimmer (for a soft glow) and a sunscreen (with SPF 40). Plus, its key ingredients—coconut alkanes and white stargrass—works for all skin types.

Beauty and Cultures Editor