The Best Bronzer for Your Complexion

Although I’ve always liked cultivating a pale complexion, which contrasts dramatically with my dark hair, this past winter I’ve reached such new levels of pastiness that I’m finally contemplating a boost of color from a bronzer. Not being a frequent user of bronzer, I had to do a little research on the best bronzer for my complexion and brush up on — so to speak — my bronzer application technique.

Bronzer is all about choosing the right color and texture for your skin (Photo: Ask.com)

Bronzer can be tricky; when done incorrectly it can leave you with a face besmirched with muddy-looking smudges. It’s all about picking the right color, texture and proper application technique. A color that’s too light will look ashy, and one that’s too dark or too orange is garishly unnatural looking. It’s recommended that you select a color that’s one or two shades darker than your complexion.

Don’t forget to blend thoroughly! (Photo: Sheknows.com)

When it comes to bronzer, think sheer, translucent so that your skin shows through — a matte, heavy texture will sit on your skin and look dull. A hint of shimmer can subtly enhance your complexion. For normal and combination skins, a powder bronzer works best, while a cream or gel texture is preferable for drier complexions.

Restraint and thorough blending are the keys to a perfect bronzer application. Start by selecting a large, fluffy brush, and sweep the bronzer from your temples to the apples of your cheeks, in a C-shape. Next, blend the bronzer toward your hairline so that it is impossible to discern where the color starts and stops. Add a peachy-pink blush to the apples of your cheeks for a pop of color and to avoid that dreaded muddy look. Finish with a touch of highlighter along your cheekbones and on the bridge of your nose.

RMS Buriti Bronzer (Photo: RMS Beauty)

Since I’d rather be pale than sport an orangey, Oompa Loompa face, I love RMS Beauty’s Buriti Bronzer for its sheer, natural-looking finish. This bronzer gives all complexions a healthy, sun-kissed glow. Made with oil from Brazilian moriche palm tree nuts, it also nourishes the skin with a healthy dose of beta-carotene.

100% Pure All Over Glow (Photo: 100% Pure Cosmetics)

Another excellent natural bronzer is 100% Pure All Over Glow, which comes in two shades: Lightly Sun Kissed or Deeply Sun Kissed. Pigmented with cocoa, this bronzer can be used on the face and body. Containing a cocktail of delicious and healthy sounding ingredients that include peach juice, acai and goji berries, this bronzer will keep your skin looking great.

Nars Blush/Bronzer Duo (Photo: Nars Cosmetics)

If you’re in search of  a powder bronzer, check out Nars limited edition Blush/Bronzer Duo. The lighter palette pairs the brand’s iconic Orgasm blush with Laguna bronzer (a sheer light brown). Darker skinned beauties will look radiant with the Sin/Casino combination, a rich, berry blush with a deep golden brown bronzer.