The Evolution of Bronzer: From Heavy to Natural Glow
The world of bronzer has undergone a significant transformation, moving away from heavy, orange-toned formulas to more nuanced and skin-care focused options. Today’s best bronzers offer subtle undertones, blendable textures, and finishes designed to mimic a natural, sun-kissed glow.
Top Bronzer Picks for Summer 2023
Vogue highlights several standout bronzers, including Rhode Pocket Bronze ($25), Charlotte Tilbury Bronzing Powder ($59), Merit Bronze Balm Sheer Sculpting Bronzer ($32), and Westman Atelier Sun Tone Bronzing Drops ($58). Saie SuperSuede Radiant Baked Bronzer ($32) is also recommended for its neutral undertones.
Rhode’s recent summer launch, centered around bronzed skin, introduced a peptide-infused bronzing stick mirroring its popular Pocket Blush. This shift demonstrates that bronzer can be a key element in everyday makeup routines, even for minimalists. Bronzers provide a quick way to add warmth and definition, particularly when natural sunlight is limited.
Beyond simply adding a luminous sheen, a well-chosen bronzer can enhance cheekbones, define the jawline, and create depth for a naturally radiant appearance. Strategic placement and light/shade play are crucial for achieving this effect.
How to Choose a Bronzer
Vogue provides guidance on selecting the right bronzer, including tips on application and differentiating between bronzer and contour products. The article details the testing process and introduces the experts involved.
Best Stick: Rhode Pocket Bronze
Rhode Pocket Bronzer $25 RHODE. Vogue’s Kiana Murden uses Rhode’s Pocket Bronze. Why We Love It: For those already devoted to Bieber’s blush, Pocket Bronze follows a familiar formula in a new complexion-enhancing format. The portable, retractable cream stick delivers warmth and definition rather than a wash of color, blending easily across the cheekbones, temples, and other areas where the sun naturally hits. The non-comedogenic formula combines peptides and tamanu oil to support hydration, while kaolin clay helps absorb excess oil and improve wear. Available in eight shades across neutral and warm undertones, there’s plenty of room to find a finish that complements your complexion.
Editor’s Experience: Getting my hands on Pocket Bronze was a true treat. I opted for the shade Sunbed (a cool undertone, suited to those with light-medium to medium skin). I opt to swipe it on the tops of my cheeks, nose, and either side of my forehead; but instead of using my fingers to blend, I’ve been using the