Brilliant Bronze

Bronzer can be a bit tricky for those who have yet to master its application. Since we all want to be stunning for our prom, now is the time to assume the position, and figure out the complexities of bronzer. There are many ways to trick-it-up so that you can pull off different looks and different levels of color and intensity. You want to look sun-kissed, not baked. The almost fool-proof way to apply bronzer is to buy the liquid bronzing foundation. Use your foundation brush, or cosmetic wedge, and spread lightly until blended; it's just that easy. To add powder bronzer, use a fluffy brush to swipe on a layer of shine (add blush on top). The hint of tan actually camouflages dark spots and uneven spots on any complexion. It simply gives you a younger, more uniform look, instantly. So go for natural and pick a shade of bronzer that is no more than one shade deeper than your natural skin color. Once you've mastered the simple, one step application you can move on to more experimental versions. If you've ever used cheek stain then you know how wonderful it can be. After using a dab on your rosy-reds, allow it to dry and then dust on your bronzer over the cheekers. It is a new spin on the original (and it holds a deeper shine as well).

Bronze Make-Up

What about those of us that prefer a matte finish but want a sparkling shine only on occasion? Purchase your matte bronzer for regular use, but also pair it up, every once in a while, with a darker powder blush with shine enhancers. The shine in the blush will enhance the matte bronzer for a regular shine that will bring your cheeks to new heights; simply apply the bronzer all over the face and then dab your blush brush into the bronzer before dipping it into the blush. You'll be surprised. Mineral skin finish products in golden hues (such as MAC's mineral skin finish) are a nice alternative to a regular bronzer of you do not have a compact handy. Slap your blush (powder or cream) on underneath and then gently apply the mineral finish on top for the bronzing illusion. So what if your skin color doesn't like the browning effect of most bronzers? You're in luck; try a pink bronzer hue. Many companies have alternatives for brown bronzer now. These new hues add a sun-kissed effect with a wave of pink-tinted bronzer. No more fake tan, neck-line for those fair skinned ladies anymore.