The Best Bronzers for a Sun-Kissed Glow

Summer’s almost at an end, but you can keep up your bronzed look even throughout the cooler weather.

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Here at CF, we’ve been discussing makeup essentials for college girls, along with our favorite products for each beauty category. This week, we’re discussing the best bronzers, ever.

Now that school has started up again for many of us, the remnants of summer – our tans and mosquito bite scars – are the last reminders of our holiday months. If you’re looking to keep up your bronzy glow even in the colder air, here are our favorite bronzers that will keep your skin looking summery all year long.

The Best Powder Bronzers:

Many of you have probably heard about Benefit Hoola ($29) and Too Faced Chocolate Soleil Bronzer ($30), both of which are classics and amazing options for powder bronzer, but Bahama Mama from The Balm ($20) is a lesser-known, equally-loved option. The neutral color and matte finish are universally flattering and foolproof.

NARS has released many iconic products over the years, and the bronzing powder ($40), especially shade Laguna, is no exception. The smooth formula and subtle shimmer screams “vacation ready” throughout the year.

As for a drugstore alternative, Milani‘s baked formula is beautiful in both its blushes and its Baked Bronzer ($8.99). The unique texture of the baking process allows this bronzer to give your skin a beautiful lit-from-within look, and their shade options range from lightly tan to glowingly deep. 

My favorite part about this affordable bronzer is that it also looks gorgeous on the body! Definitely check this product out.

The Best Cream Bronzers:

Sometimes you’re not looking for a traditional powder formula, or your skin is on the drier side. Cream bronzer is blendable, buildable, and, once you get the hang of it, really convenient to travel with. Here are a few of our favorites.

I know I mentioned this in last week’s post about blushes, but I just can’t get enough of the ELF Contouring Blush and Bronzing Cream ($4). Not only is the blush a go-to, the bronzer side is creamy, blendable, and surprisingly subtle. It melts into the skin and is always an easy grab whenever I need some quick bronzing.

This creamy stick Matte Bronzer from Milk ($24) includes mango butter and avocado oil, as well as the Milk Melt Technology to nourish the skin while giving it an unmistakable glow. I know I can always count on Milk for quality ingredients and color payoff, and this bronzer is so easy to blend!

Another stick option for cream bronzer is the Fenty Match Stix ($25). Not only are there so many colors and undertones to choose from, but you can also mix and match your bronzer pick with shades for concealer and/or highlight. 

Fenty’s large shade range and well-developed formulas have definitely earned the brand its amazing reputation.

And that’s it!

These are my all-time favorite bronzers. Have you tried any of these products? Do you have a favorite bronzer? Which formula do you prefer – powder or cream? Let’s chat in the comments.

And if you’re interested in other makeup recommendations, be sure to check out my favorite mascaras, blushes, and skincare dupes, then tune in next week for even more!

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