Beauty
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

How do I Choose the Best Bronzer Products?

Lainie Petersen
Lainie Petersen

Bronzer gives you the look of being in the sun without the risks of tanning, and unlike many self-tanning products, it won't turn your skin orange and can easily be removed if you don't like how it looks. Bronzer products come in many different forms, including gels, lotions, and powders, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. Choosing the best bronzer products depends on your age, skin type, and skin tone.

If you plan to use bronzer products on your face, you'll want to choose a bronzer that won't make your skin break out or accentuate lines. For example, shimmer bronzer can look great on your shoulders, but unless your face is completely smooth, all that shimmer will settle into and highlight your wrinkles. If your skin is sensitive, consider a mineral bronzer, which usually contains fewer irritating ingredients than other bronzer products.

The best mineral bronzers even out skin tone and provide sheer coverage.
The best mineral bronzers even out skin tone and provide sheer coverage.

Gel or liquid bronzers have the advantage of not settling into fine lines the way powders can. They can also be mixed with facial moisturizer or body lotions for easy application. Some people with oily skin have difficulty with gel or liquid bronzers, as they can make skin appear oilier. You may also have more difficulty controlling the intensity of a gel or liquid bronzer and may need practice in getting the right amount of bronzer onto your skin.

Some women choose to use bronzer powder in place of traditional blush.
Some women choose to use bronzer powder in place of traditional blush.

Carefully consider the color of the bronzer products you use. If your goal in using bronzer is to replicate a sun-kissed look, the bronzer should be no more than two shades darker than your natural skin color. Be careful of bronzer beads or palates that contain bronzers in many different colors. While these can look pretty in the package, some of the colors may simply be too dark for your complexion, making it difficult to get the look you want. If you plan to use bronzer powder in place of blush, you'll want to pick a bronzer that is well suited to your complexion. Some bronzers come in a range of hues and may have pink, peach, or rose undertones.

Bronzer tanning lotions provide a safer choice than sunbathing, particularly when it comes to fair-skinned individuals.
Bronzer tanning lotions provide a safer choice than sunbathing, particularly when it comes to fair-skinned individuals.

Unless you are using a liquid bronzer that contains a sunscreen, keep in mind that no bronzer or self tanner will protect you from the damaging rays of the sun. Don't undo your efforts to protect your skin by using bronzer products instead of tanning by forgetting to wear a high SPF sunscreen daily.

Discussion Comments

serenesurface

For those on the lookout for a good face bronzer, I highly recommend mineral bronzer made from natural ingredients. It blends nicely, looks natural and the product lasts forever! I tried cheap bronzers before but they never looked right on me and never blended with my skin tone properly. Mineral bronzer cost more but it's definitely worth it. Plus, I think it's going to last me for a good three years.

bear78

@donasmrs-- I don't think that's a good idea simply because self tanning creams or instant bronzers are not formulated for the face. A face bronzer is a cosmetic but a body bronzer is a colored cream or spray. It won't be safe to apply those products around the mouth and eyes, especially if there are chemicals and fumes involved. You should buy a face bronzer separately.

The skin on our body and face is different. You can buy a bronzer for your face based on the type of skin you have. If you have dry skin for example, a cream face bronzer will work well. If you have oily skin, you should use a powder face bronzer.

And when you apply bronzer to your face, you can't apply it everywhere like you would a body bronzer. A face bronzer is meant to be applied lightly with a brush on the forehead, cheeks, nose and chin. These are the areas that would get slightly tan if you were to be exposed to natural sunlight.

donasmrs

I have a gel body bronzer that I use often. It's a nice, glowy tan color that makes my skin look healthy and beautiful, like I just went tanning. The only problem is that while my body looks great, my face looks pale. Can I use my body bronzer on my face? Is this safe?

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • The best mineral bronzers even out skin tone and provide sheer coverage.
      By: anakondasp
      The best mineral bronzers even out skin tone and provide sheer coverage.
    • Some women choose to use bronzer powder in place of traditional blush.
      By: Subbotina Anna
      Some women choose to use bronzer powder in place of traditional blush.
    • Bronzer tanning lotions provide a safer choice than sunbathing, particularly when it comes to fair-skinned individuals.
      By: Antonioguillem
      Bronzer tanning lotions provide a safer choice than sunbathing, particularly when it comes to fair-skinned individuals.
    • While bronzers can be used on a variety of skin complexions, it should be no more than two shades darker than an individual's skin tone.
      By: micromonkey
      While bronzers can be used on a variety of skin complexions, it should be no more than two shades darker than an individual's skin tone.
    • Bronzers come in a range of hues and may have pink, peach, or rose undertones.
      By: Valua Vitaly
      Bronzers come in a range of hues and may have pink, peach, or rose undertones.
    • To replicate a sun-kissed look, a bronzer should be no more than two shades darker than your natural skin color.
      By: Kurhan
      To replicate a sun-kissed look, a bronzer should be no more than two shades darker than your natural skin color.