I was prompted to do this post after many inquiries from friends, and most recently from The Informed Makeup Maven, whose readers had questions regarding the best bronzers for their rich chocolate skintones.
Bronzer’s are either powder, gel, liquid or cream products that are used to give the impression of a bronzed/golden color of a suntan. Powder bronzers are most effective for individuals with oily skin, whereas, liquids and creams are best for people with dry skin. Bronzer is usually applied to the face on the chin, cheeks, center of the nose, cheek bones, and if you’re wearing a low-cut shirt add bronzer to your decolletage to enhance it.
There are very few companies that have bronzers specifically for women of color who have darker skintones. Iman Cosmetics, Milani, and Black Opal are brands for Women of Color that do have bronzers for women like us.
Iman Sheer Finish Bronzing Powders:
“Capture the brilliant glow of the sun with naturally shimmering sheer powders that bring a touched by the tropics to every complexion. Available in three color selections – Afterglow, clay (medium-dark complexion) & sand (medium-light complexion).”
Milani Cosmetics Bronzer XL All-Over Glow ($8.99):
“A 2-in-1 bronzer, matte and shimmer, perfect for all-over color! First, sweep matte bronzer all over face, neck and body to create instant, healthy, sun-kissed radiance. Second, dab the pearlescent shimmer bronzer to add touches of luminosity! The oil-free, silky-soft powder formula feels luxurious on skin, with a fresh and light fragrance.” Comes in two shades: 1. Bronze glow, 2. Fake Tan
Black Opal Color Fusion Mosaic ($10.50):
“Highlight the natural beauty of your skin with this multi-toned mosaic bronzing powder. Formulated with Vitamins that work to condition and protect your skin as well as oil blotters to help control shine, this ultra-fine, jet milled powder also ensures smooth application and long lasting streak-free color. For all skin types.” This product comes in (5) different shades: 1. Bronzer, 2. Shimmer Bronzer, 3. Pressed Powder, 4. Raspberry Bronzer Blush, 5. Golden Bronzer
Personally, I use the following:
1. MAC Format blush
2. MAC Raizin Blush
3. MAC Sweet As Cocoa Blush
4. MAC Weekend Bronzer
1. Oily skin should avoid bronzers with loads of shimmer.
2. Apply a little powder before the bronzer to prevent streaking.
3. Choose a bronzer two shades deeper than your complexion (too light and it’ll appear ashy; too dark and it’ll look muddy).
4. Mix Liquid bronzers like Inglot’s Liquid Illuminators with body oil/baby oil to create a bronzing oil for your body.
5. Mix your liqued bronzer with a tinted moisturizer to get an all-over face golden glow.
