Bronzer
Bronzer can help to give you that California girl glow no matter where you live. Bronzer is usually a mineral powder that has light reflecting particles in it. These particles create a glow on the skin by picking up the shimmer of the light. Bronzer can be matte, shimmery or all-over sparkly depending on your preference.
There are a few key rules you should practice when using bronzer. The first is to not wear a bronzer that is that much darker than your foundation. This means you should go a shade darker in your foundation so that there is not such a great contrast when you use bronzer over top. The other option is to go a shade lighter in the bronzer you choose. You may not look as dark or tanned as you might want, but you will still appear natural which is much preferred. Getting the right shade of bronzer is very important to avoid the orange effect. Many bronzers look different in their packaging then on your skin, so ask to try a sample or ask the sales associate to help you find the correct color for your skin.
You should apply bronzer with the correct type of brush. There are brushes designed specifically for bronzers that are wider and have lots of fairly long bristles. Bobbi Brown Bronzer Brush allows for smooth application with its rounded tip. It retails for $60 online. There are less expensive options out there too including EcoTools Bronzer Brush. It retails for $10 and helps to support the environment. It is also important to make sure that you properly blend your bronzer in around the jaw line. Using a bronzer with shimmer and light reflective particles on your neck and chest can help to give a fresh effect. For evenings where you are going to be showing your shoulders or chest you can always add some bronzer for contour and shimmer.
Rimmel London Natural Bronzer is a great shimmery light-weight product. It is available in four different shades that allow for a sun-kissed radiance no matter what time of year. It retails for under $12 at most drugstores. Fit Me Bronzer by Maybelline gives a dewy youthful glow effortlessly. It comes in three shades that will complement your undertone appearing natural and fresh. It retails for under $10 at most drugstores. Bronzy Babe Face and Body Bronzer provides great coverage fit to match Fake & Bake Self-Tanner. It is available for $30 online.
Bronzer will become your little secret about how you got that beautiful sun-kissed glow.