If applied correctly, a bronzer can work wonders on the skin. In addition to giving the skin definition and a healthy, sun-kissed appearance, you can also use a bronzing powder to contour your face and make yourself look less tired. Bronzer can also create the illusion of cheekbones and help play down some of your less favourable features. I’m sure many of you have heard the term “contouring”? The well-known makeup technique is basically the art of creating shadows or illusions. Professional makeup artists and even wannabes like me use bronzer to highlight or contour facial features (i.e. cheekbones, double chin, big nose). Keep reading for tips on how to choose the right shade for your complexion and to check out our top picks from the drugstore.
How to Choose the Right Bronzing Powder
Choosing the right shade of bronzer is important. If you choose a shade that is too dark for you, it can look unflattering and unnatural. Choose a shade that is no more than 2 shades darker than your natural skin tone. Most experts recommend matching the shade to the skin tone on your chest/arms for a seamless transition between your face and the rest of your body. Keep in mind that your skin tone varies between Summer & Winter months, so a different shade for each of those seasons may be required.
Fair Skin – If you have fair or pale skin that tends to burn easily you should choose a bronzer with peach or pink undertones.
Light-Medium Skin – If you have light-medium skin and blonde hair, you may want to check out bronzers with pink undertones, whereas if you are a brunette with a light-medium skin tone, products with orange undertones look better on you.
Olive Skin – Copper shades of bronzing powder look great on olive-toned skin
Dark Skin – Darker skinned beauties should choose bronzers that are rich in pigment. Most companies make Light, Medium or Dark options, so choose the darkest one available.
Normal/Oily Skin – Powder-based bronzers are recommended
Dry Skin – Bronzers with a cream or gel formula work best on dry skin. Remember to also moisturize your skin BEFORE applying the bronzer, even if using a cream based formula.
Bronzing Tips
1) Experts recommend using foundation OR bronzer but not necessarily using both together. Instead, they suggest applying pressed powder to the skin to help even out the complexion and keep the bronzer in place.
2) Use a fluffy brush with soft (not stiff) bristles to apply your bronzer… making sure to tap off any excess powder.
3) Apply the powder anywhere that the sun would naturally hit (i.e. top of the forehead, all over the nose/chin and over the tops of your cheeks). For a natural application, don’t forget a light dusting of powder on your neck and ears also.
4) Less is more. Start by applying a small amount, then layer if necessary. It’s always easier to add more than have too much in the first place. And….don’t forget to blend, especially if you are using a bronzer to contour.
Top Bronzing Powders from the Drugstore
Most Economical – NYC’s Smooth Skin Bronzing Face Powder, mentioned here or the Sun Club Matt Bronzing Powder by essence cosmetics are both great, yet affordable options that can be found at the drugstore. At under $4 a piece, they offer natural-looking, matte coverage that isn’t going to break the bank.
Most Beautiful – ARTDECO’s Bronzing Powder Compact has the prettiest jungle-inspired imprint (see photo above). Not only is it aesthetically beautiful but it also has a nourishing formula. The only problem is that it is often released as limited edition, so when you spot it at your local drugstore, make sure to snatch it up fast!
Most Natural – Because of it’s Smart Shade technology, Almay’s Powder Bronzer looks and feels the most natural on my skin. It’s three shades of bricked color swirl together to create the perfect blend on any skin tone.
Another great option is the Natural Bronzer by Rimmel London. It has a mineral formula and works flawlessly on fairer skin.
Most Shimmery (but not in a disco ball way!) – I really enjoy using Annabelle’s BIGGY Bronzer on days when I want to add a bit more glam to my look. This powder includes two varying tones of bronzing powder that can be used separately or swirled together to create any desired effect. I wouldn’t recommend this one for contouring but it’s a lovely bronzer if being used to add warmth and colour to the skin.
Do you use bronzing powder?
What is your favourite one?
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