The best bronzers should do more than simply add colour to your complexion. A really great formula can warm up the skin, softly sculpt the face and fake a post-holiday glow without veering muddy, patchy or orange. But with powders, creams, sticks and liquids all competing for space in your make-up bag (not to mention all your blushes, foundations and the like), finding the right one for your skin type and finish preference can feel overwhelming
To help narrow things down, I tested a wide range of bronzing formulas across a variety of price points and consistencies, paying close attention to blendability, longevity and how natural each formula looked in daylight. I also spoke to Chanel make-up artist Marco Antonio – whose clients have included Kate Moss and Lily Aldridge – for expert guidance on bronzer formulas According to Antonio, powder bronzers are ideal for adding “warmth and definition” while helping to control shine, whereas cream bronzers “blend seamlessly into the skin” and offer a more dewy, natural-looking finish, particularly for drier skin types.
