With today’s heightened awareness of skin damage caused by ultraviolet rays, the amount of tanning products available for ‘faking it’ are endless.
So achieving that sought-after, sexy bronze glow is really just about doing some research and finding the tools that work best for you.
“You can find bronzers in a variety of formulations, such as gel, powder, and liquid,” explains Kelly Amsterdam, director of Clinique Global Communications, Canada. “Aside from bronzers, you can also achieve a sun kissed glow with products like tinted moisturizers, blush and loose powders. The key is starting with a healthy-looking complexion, and finding the right, custom-fit bronzing product for your skin type.”
Sephora Pro Beauty team expert Adi Lando says women can achieve that perfect summer glow easily with multi-use products like the Sephora Bronzing Kit.
“Complete with a tri-coloured bronzer for that perfect sun-kissed glow, which doubles as an eye shadow, bronzing brush and lip gloss,” he says.
When going the bronzing powder route, the right brush will also help by blending the makeup to give you a flawless finish.
“Think about where the sun would hit you naturally, and try making the number three down your face (forehead, cheek bones and jaw line, and finish down the nose),” he says. “These are the proper areas of application so the bronzed look is natural and not over-done.”
When choosing a bronzer it is important to keep in mind your skin type. For example, if you have oily skin you may want to try powders that are matte, with little to no shimmer.
“Before even applying a bronzing product, regardless of formulation, women should make sure their skin is in the best possible condition,” advises Amsterdam. “Any summer glow will only look as good as the appearance of the skin underneath – oilier skin types, for example, will definitely want to ensure any bronzer they use is oil-free, and will probably prefer a gel or powder formulation over a more emollient cream.”
If you’re not sure what bronzer is best for you, stop by a cosmetic counter and seek expert advice. It’s a great opportunity to have a look at your best bronzing options, and get free one-on-one application tips and tricks.
Denyse Beaulieu, creative manager at Groupe Marcelle, says another thing to keep in mind is that less really is more. So don’t start by caking on too much powder or liquid foundation on your face.
“Start with a little; it’s always easier to build than to remove regardless of the formula, whether it be powder, liquid or self-tanner,” says Beaulieu. “Less does equal a more natural looking complexion.”
