Best Bronzers for Summer 2023
Summer is here, and everyone seems to want the “sun-kissed skin” look. Bronzer is the perfect way to achieve this look without spending time in the sun. Whether you are trying to avoid sun damage, don’t have time to lay out, or whatever the case may be, bronzer adds the warmth and subtle definition, mimicking the appearance of “sun-kissed skin.”
In this post, I share the best bronzers that I have tried. I note each bronzer’s specific attributes to help you determine which ones would suit you and your skin best, according to your skin type, complexion, preferences, and budget.
Physicians Formula Murumuru Butter Bronzer
The Butter Bronzer has a massive following for a reason. The bronzer’s buildable and blend-able powder formula makes for easy application. Using this bronzer adds a subtle warm and golden radiance to the skin, as opposed to the harsh appearance given by bronzers that are too orange in color or glittery.
Pros: Silky formula, highly blend-able, buildable coverage, and natural finish
Con: Strong coconut/sunscreen scent
Coverage: Sheer to medium
Finish: Natural
Cruelty-free: Yes
Photo courtesy of Physiciansformula.com
Physicians Formula Matte Monoi Butter Bronzer
This bronzer has all the same benefits of the other Physicians Formula bronzer but in a matte version. Applying just as easily as the original bronzer, the Matte Monoi bronzer adds warmth and subtle definition to the face. Compared to the original Murumuru Butter Bronzer, this version differs in its ability to sculpt the face, lack of shimmer, and different scent. While the matte bronzer also possesses a strong scent, the smell is more on the sweet and floral side. While everyone’s scent preferences are different, I like this scent way more than the original scent.
Pros: Silky formula, highly blend-able, buildable coverage, and natural appearance
(Potential) Con: Slight scent
Coverage: Sheer to medium
Finish: Matte
Cruelty-free: Yes
Photo courtesy of Physiciansformula.com
Too Faced Chocolate Soleil Matte Bronzer
This Too Faced bronzer is another fan favorite product. With its buildable formula, the product can be applied gradually according to your desired amount of warmth and definition. Although the bronzer is definitely more warm-toned, the color does not appear orange and is neutral enough to use for contouring. Another attribute worth mentioning is the product’s scent. Depending on your feelings toward scented products and chocolate treats, you will either love or hate the bronzer’s slight chocolate smell (personally, I love it).
Pros: Buildable formula and adds definition without appearing ashy/too cool in color
Cons: Can emphasize areas of dryness and requires some blending to achieve seamless finish
Coverage: Sheer to medium
Finish: Matte
Cruelty-free: Yes
Photo courtesy of Sephora.com
Milani Silky Matte Bronzing Powder
This bronzer has a light pigmentation and buildable formula that makes application time slightly longer; however, if you are willing to spend the extra time, you’ll find bronzer application to be incredibly easy and smooth. The product’s light consistency makes this a highly versatile bronzer. For instance, subtle application gives the face slight definition and a wash of color while building up the product generates a more dramatic effect.
Pros: Light consistency and buildable formula
Cons: Takes time to blend and can emphasize skin’s dryness
Coverage: Sheer to medium
Finish: Matte
Cruelty-free: Yes
Photo courtesy of Walmart.com
L’Oréal Infallible 24Hr Fresh Wear Bronzer
This product went practically viral on social media for its bronzing and contouring abilities. The bronzer’s main attribute is its wear-time. I have not worn the product for 24 consecutive hours, but I have worn the product for long periods of time and can attest to its longevity. This bronzer hardly budges throughout the day, and this feature can be especially nice for people with oily or combination skin types who struggle to get their products to last on the skin. Since the bronzer barely moves upon application, I recommend applying the product with a light hand, gradually building up its level of pigmentation. For those who have an aversion to fragrance, it is worth noting this bronzer has a perfume-like scent.
Pros: Long wearing and versatile (can be used as bronzer and/or contour)
Cons: Slightly difficult to blend and matte formula may emphasize dryness
Coverage: Medium to high
Finish: Matte
Cruelty-free: No
Photo courtesy of Walmart.com
Nars Laguna Talc-Free Bronzing Powder
The higher price tag is about the only negative point I can make regarding this Nars bronzer. With a blend-able and buildable formula, this bronzer applies so nicely onto the skin. Not to mention, it adds just enough warmth and radiance to the face to mimic that “sun-kissed” glow without appearing unnatural. For those interested in this bronzer but hesitant about its price, Nars offers a mini size for just $19 that takes forever to use up.
Pros: Light, buildable formula, blends easily, and adds natural radiance
Cons: Higher price
Coverage: Sheer to medium
Finish: Natural
Cruelty-free: No
Photo courtesy of Narscosmetics.com
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