Bronzers have long been a crucial step in our beauty routines.
Its subtle addition can make a big difference in illuminating and transforming our complexions with just a sweep of the brush to give you that fresh-from-holiday glow.
When summer feels like a long time away, these sun-kissed heroes bring a much-needed dose of sunshine to even the darkest of winter days without worrying about the potential dodgy side effects of fake or spray tans.
Bronzers come in three main forms; sticks, powders and liquid and can have a glitter or matte finish depending on your preference.
Which type of bronzer is best for me?
For beginners, it’s probably best to stick to the powder format as they are the easiest to achieve an even application. They also work best for those with oily or combination skin but it is important to prep properly before applying. Use primer or moisturiser and wear over the top of foundation to give the formula staying power. Opt for a medium-sized fluffy brush with a flat top for all over the face and an angled brush for contour and tap to get rid of excess.
For a liquid or cream bronzer, they tend to apply darker than their powder counterparts and are not as foolproof. That being said, they may have a better sheen and work better for those with dry skin. Apply with a sponge or your fingers or combine with moisturiser for ease.
Where should I apply bronzer?
Use your bronzer to accentuate certain areas and add definition to your face. Apply to areas where you would be most sun-kissed like your hairline, cheekbones and nose or go for the triple technique by adding warm illumination to your hairline, high point of cheek and jawline.
How do you pick the right shade?
When it comes to choosing the right product for you, don’t go too much darker than your natural shade – one or two shades at most. If you have applied too much, use a clean brush and go over your face with circular movements. Natural lighting will provide the best application.
Pay particular attention to your undertone and whether you have a cool, neutral or warm hue. For those with a cool undertone, opt for peachy, beige or soft hues. For warm, golden is your best bet and for neutral, steer clear of yellow and pink shades in favour of natural browns.
In order to look as natural as possible you must find the right shade to match your skin tone which follows a general rule of thumb; lean into how your skin reacts in the sun. For fair and light skin, warm beige, rosy and bronze colours will replicate that just touched by the sun feel. If you have medium or olive skin, use bronzer to create a perfect finish to compliment your natural tan with gold and copper colourings. Bronzers for darker skin tones can appear more like a finishing powder and can end up washing out deep skin tones as some products contain white pigments, opt for deeper shades, rusty tones, amber or chocolate-brown bronzers.
