I'm Paranoid About Sun Damage, So I Rely on These 13 Liquid Bronzers Instead
There's something for every budget.
There’s nothing like a natural, sunkissed complexion. But spending time in the sun is risky, especially if you are prone to burning. Thankfully, the best liquid bronzers can give you that irresistible lit-from-within glow without the trauma of sun damage. These days, bronzers come in all sorts of formulas and finishes that will help you look healthy, refreshed, and alive (helpful for anyone who needs to look more awake and less like a sleep-deprived zombie). A good bronzer can really be a blessing!
Liquid bronzers have their own advantages compared to cream or powder formulas. They’re great for people with dry skin, as they can help add hydration (though you’ll want to make sure your skin isn’t flaky by exfoliating first). They can also be mixed with other products, such as moisturizer or foundation, and they’re easily buildable, which can result in a more natural-looking glow compared to some of the other types of bronzers.
Applying any kind of liquid makeup can be tricky, but especially with bronzers, too much can look streaky and unnatural. With most liquid bronzers, a little can go a long way. To find the right shade, go a shade or two darker than your skin tone, nothing more. “Liquid bronzers are great for a very natural look and healthy glow,” says Charlie Riddle, global beauty director at Stila. “Using your fingers, you can apply it onto the apples of your cheeks and the bridge of your nose for a sunkissed look.
Liquid bronzers are versatile, and they can also be applied with a brush, according to Etienne Ortega, celebrity makeup artist and Deck of Scarlet brand ambassador. “To apply liquid bronzer, first shake the bronzer to ensure good consistency. Put a dab on your palette before applying, but if you don’t have a clean palette the back of your hand works as well,” says Ortega. Then, use a soft and fluffy brush to sweep into the contour areas of the face, such as the cheekbones, temples, hairline, and lastly, the jawline. “I like to go over the area and lightly dab with the same brush to make sure it’s pressed into the skin.”
Ready to reach your glow goals? Ahead, find the 13 best liquid bronzers for all types of budgets.