Bronzing for Beginners: How to Get a Natural Sunkissed Glow
Want to master the art of bronzing? Getting a natural-looking bronzed complexion can seem intimidating if you're new to it....
As the weather warms up, bronzed, glowing skin is one of the most requested looks at our Studio Sessions. Achieving a natural-looking bronzed complexion can be easy with a few tips - what the video here.
From choosing the right bronzer formula to proper application and blending, follow these easy tips and tricks using natural bronzers for a healthy, radiant spring/summer glow - no experience needed!
How To Choose Your Natural Bronzer Formula
The first step is selecting a natural bronzer formula that works best for your skin type and desired effect. Bronzers are also available in many shades, from golden champagnes to deeper terra cottas, for a natural effect, choose just 1-2 shades darker than your skin tone.
Popular options include:
- Powder Bronzers - These provide a natural matte or luminous finish and buildable colour. Any skin type can use the modern hydrating powder formulas but they are also ideal for normal to oily skin types looking for sheer coverage.
-
Kosas The Sun Show Bronzer (sheen - no sparkle)
- Lily Lolo Pressed Bronzer (matte)
- Rms Beauty ReDimension Hydra Bronzer (luminous)
- (M)anasi 7 Custom Contour Duo (matte)
- Ere Perez Pressed Powder Bronzer (matte)
- Cream Bronzers - With a natural dewy finish, cream formulas are great for dry skin. They can be easier to use for those new to bronzing as you can control the amount applied easily and blend with fingers. Works for subtle contouring too.
- Bronzing Drops/Oils - These liquid bronzers can be mixed into moisturiser or foundation for an all over radiant tan look. Suitable for all skin types.
Tools For Applying Your Natural Bronzer
The right tools make all the difference in bronzer application.
- Powder Bronzers - Use a dense, angled brush to apply and a fluffy brush to blend. Try the Ere Perez Eco Vegan Blush & Bronze Brush or the Rms Beauty Skin2Skin Blush Powder Brush.
- Cream Bronzers - Your fingers, a damp makeup sponge or a stippling brush work well. Try the Ere Perez Eco Make-Up Sponges or the Rms Beauty Skin2Skin Blush Brush.
- Bronzing Drops - Combine with skincare or foundation using a makeup sponge or brush. We love the Ere Perez Eco Vegan Multi-Purpose Foundation Brush.
Placement is Key
Where you apply bronzer is crucial for a naturally sunkissed effect. As an easy guide focus on the high points of your face that would be naturally hit by the sun:
- Forehead
- Cheekbones
- Bridge of Nose
- Temples
- Chin
You can also lightly sweep bronzer in the hollows of your cheeks for subtle contouring if desired. Try the Lily Lolo Tapered Contour Brush to apply a contour.
Expert Bronzing Tips
- Not Sure How To Pair Bronzer With Blush? - An easy look is to create a C shape around the edge of the face with bronzer (sweep across the top of the forehead into the temple and down along the cheekbone) and then just add a pop of blush on the apple of the cheek to brighten!
- Prep With Powder - When using powder bronzer it’s helpful to apply your finishing powder prior to bronzer - this stops the bronzer applying too heavily or sticking to your foundation and looking patchy. The powder gives a smoother base for the bronzer to blend out across.
- Take It Slowly & Blend, Blend, Blend - Start with just a little bronzer (tap of. any excess on the. brush) and concentrate on the high points. Use a light hand and buff in circular motions to distribute the colour evenly. Blend thoroughly along the edges so there are no harsh lines. You can always add more later.
- Started A Little Heavy Handed? - If you go a little overboard on a cream bronzer (don’t worry, it happens to the best of us!) just take a tiny bit of your concealer or foundation on a brush or sponge and buff out over the edges of the bronzer to soften the look.
- Take it Further - Get extra use out of your bronzer by wearing it across the eyes as a light wash of shadow too - for a subtle but flattering monochromatic effect that just adds definition to the eyes with minimal effort.
With these easy tips and tricks, you'll be bronzing like a pro all spring and summer long! Remember, bronzer should provide a sun-kissed warmth, not an orange mask. Focus on the high points, blend thoroughly and don't be afraid to start sheer and build. A natural glow is just a few sweeps away!