The Fuss about Bronzers

Until recently, I could not see what all the fuss was about when it came to bronzers.  Part of my initial conviction hinged upon the bewildering amount of options available.  Matte and shiny powders, sprays, mousses, gels, liquids with and without shimmer, and even sticks – I was definitely intrigued, but had no idea where to start. 

Upon my investigation, I noticed that they are available in a large number of brands with a variety of shades.  I was pleased to discover that bronzers have improved in recent years making them easier to use and more natural looking.  

I have since embarked on using the Ultraceuticals Even Skintone Compact Bronzer, which imparts a hint of shine in addition to a sunless glow.  This is my preferred alternative to a matte finish that can look a bit flat during summer - I personally like a hint of shimmer.  Some others that have caught my eye so far, Glo Minerals Glo Sheer Tint Base Bronzing Gel is perfect for all skin types and the glow looks very natural, as if you managed to catch a few rays during your lunch break.  Bare Minerals All-Over Face Color - Faux Tan offers a burst of glowing natural colour without the shimmer for those who are partial to a more warm matte finish.  The dark horse of the bronzer line-up is Napoleon Perdis Bronze Bonanza, this limited edition tempting summer trio consists of pressed bronzing shimmer powder, lip-gloss and a bronzing brush.  This powder can be gradually built-up for a decadent all-over luminosity with a bonus bronze gloss to match.

Bronzing your skin also has many benefits.  Other than giving you a healthy sun-kissed tan, it can camouflage blemishes, uneven skin tone, pigmentation, spider veins, and develop the illusion of decreased cellulite leading to a more toned appearance.  To achieve a naturally bronze glow, apply bronzer to the areas of the face that the sun hits first - nose, apples of cheeks, forehead, chin and collarbone.  Bronzer works well on other body parts too, brush a light dusting all over your skin, especially the ankles, in between the toes, ankles and knees.  Just be sure to keep it looking natural.  Also, carefully select a shade two tones darker than your natural skin colour because there is nothing worse than a miss-matched bronzer that appears muddy or just as orange as a carrot.

After my soul searching and current research, I can proudly admit that I am now a bronzer convert.  I think I must have been hiding under a rock all this time because I can openly and honestly, declare that it is a stunning and multifaceted inclusion to anyone’s makeup collection.