Designed to add depth and definition through contouring while replicating the warm, glowy appearance of a natural, sun-kissed complexion, bronzer is primarily used on the face. However, body bronzers are now also widely available. Providing an effortless, wipe-away alternative to fake tans, sunbeds, and the sun’s rays, face bronzer is typically applied to areas of the face that are natural sun traps, including the cheekbones, forehead, and the bridge of your nose. Sold in a variety of shades, the idea is to select one with a deeper hue than your natural skin tone. It also comes in different finishes, such as natural, matte, shimmer, and glow. Meanwhile, there are many different bronzer formats to choose from, including powders, creams, liquids, sticks, serums, and palettes.
What’s the difference between bronzer and contouring makeup?
Just like contouring makeup, bronzers can be used to create the appearance of a more defined, sculpted face. However, with their warm undertones, bronzers are primarily designed to give your skin an instant sun-kissed complexion. In contrast, contouring makeup has cool undertones and is often paired with highlighters to add definition, improve symmetry, and give the face an overall more sculpted appearance.
What’s the difference between fake tan and bronzer?
Fake tan is typically applied to the whole body, isn’t used for contouring, and can last for many days (it stains the skin). Bronzer makeup, on the other hand, is typically only applied to the cheekbones, forehead, and the bridge of your nose, and is designed to contour the face while giving it a sun-kissed complexion. Because bronzing makeup doesn’t stain the skin, it can be wiped off with the rest of your makeup at the end of the day.
What are the different types of bronzer makeup?
Bronzer Drops – Also known as liquid bronzers, and not to be confused with tanning drops, which are formulated to help you develop a semi-permanent tan over time (think fake tan), bronzing drops are designed to give you a day-long, cleanse-away tan. Suitable for application directly onto your face, bronzer drops can also be added to a moisturiser or face makeup prior to application.
Cream Bronzer – The most popular format and the best option for a natural, dewy finish, cream bronzers have non-greasy formulas and seamlessly blend into the skin, making them a great option for contouring. Suitable for all skin types, they are especially well-suited to mature skin.
Bronzing Stick – Essentially just a cream bronzer moulded into a stick, bronzing sticks provide a quicker, more precise method of application than regular creams, as well as powder, drop, and serum-based formulas. Just like cream formats, they are suitable for all skin types and are ideal if you want to create a natural, dewy finish on the go.
Powder Bronzer – The original bronzer format, powdered bronzers are either pressed or loose and typically have a matte or shimmer finish. Providing better control and precision than other formats, they are ideal for layering. Suitable for most skin types, and especially great for oily skin, they are best avoided if you have dry or dehydrated skin because they can clump up and highlight areas of dry skin, making them feel less comfortable.
Baked Bronzers – Baked bronzers are essentially cream formulas that have been baked into smooth, powdery solids.
Bronzing Serum – Essentially just bronzer drops with added skin-hydrating, softening, and repairing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, Vitamin C, jojoba oil, and coconut extract, bronzing serums tend to provide a more subtle sun-kissed effect, making them a great option for the ‘no-makeup’ makeup aesthetic. Furthermore, they are suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
Bronzer Palette – Almost always sold in the form of smooth, powdery solids (think baked bronzers), bronzer palettes typically contain two or more different shades that can either be mixed or used separately. Giving you more flexibility and control over the finished effect
