Bronzer adds warmth so your face looks sun-kissed instead of flat. It comes as powder, cream, stick, water-based liquid and bronzing drops you mix into skincare, and each one goes on a little differently. The placement is the same for all of them, though. Here's where to put bronzer, how to choose a shade and the right technique for each formula.
Key takeaways
- Bronzer goes where the sun naturally hits: the top of the forehead, cheekbones, bridge of the nose and jaw.
- Choose a shade 1 to 2 shades deeper than your skin with a warm undertone.
- Creams and liquids go on before powder; powder bronzer goes on after setting powder.
- Bronzing drops can be mixed into moisturizer or applied on top of foundation for a softer glow.
In this guide
Where to apply bronzer
A simple way to remember it is the "3" shape: on each side, sweep from the temple to the top of the cheekbone, then along the jaw. Add a light touch across the bridge of the nose and the top of the forehead near the hairline.
Which bronzer formula to pick
| Formula | Finish | Best for | Apply with |
|---|---|---|---|
| Powder | Matte or soft shimmer | Oily skin, long wear | Large fluffy brush |
| Cream or stick | Skin-like, dewy | Dry or normal skin | Dense brush, sponge or fingers |
| Water or liquid bronzer | Sheer, natural | A light, buildable tint | Fingers or damp sponge |
| Bronzing drops | Glowy, all-over | Mixing into skincare | Fingers, mixed with moisturizer or SPF |
Creator @beautybybanda compares several formulas, including REFY Water Bronzer, Makeup by Mario SoftSculpt Shaping Bronzer and the budget Milani Baked Powder Bronzer.
How to apply powder bronzer
Finish your base and set it
Powder bronzer goes on top of foundation and setting powder. Over wet cream products it can look patchy.
Tap off the excess
Swirl a fluffy brush in the pan and tap it on the edge. Most mistakes come from too much product on the brush.
Sweep the 3 shape
Start at the temple, go down to the cheekbone and along the jaw, using light circles.
Build slowly
Add a second light layer if you want more. Finish with what's left on the brush over the nose and forehead.
How to apply cream, liquid and bronzing drops
Apply after foundation, before powder
Cream and liquid bronzers blend best into a base that hasn't been powdered yet.
Dot it on
Place 2 or 3 small dots on the high points of each side of your face. Liquid formulas are pigmented, so start small.
Blend quickly
Blend with fingers, a damp sponge or a dense brush before it sets.
For drops, mix or layer
Mix 1 to 3 drops into your moisturizer or sunscreen for an all-over glow, or tap a drop on top of foundation where you'd put bronzer.
Set if needed
Lightly powder the T-zone if you have oily skin.
Creator @aishapotters adds Drunk Elephant's bronzing drops to her skincare in a pilates GRWM.
How to choose a bronzer shade
| Skin tone | Look for |
|---|---|
| Fair | Light, soft tan shades with a neutral or slightly warm undertone |
| Light to medium | Golden or honey-toned bronzers |
| Medium to tan | Warm caramel and amber shades |
| Deep | Rich, red-brown or deep golden shades, not grey or ashy |
Swatch on your jawline in daylight. If it looks orange, go a shade lighter or more neutral. If it looks muddy or grey, go warmer.
Frequently asked questions
Do you put bronzer on before or after foundation?
After. Cream and liquid bronzers go on after foundation and before powder; powder bronzer goes on after setting powder.
Can I use bronzer without foundation?
Yes. Cream, liquid bronzers and drops look especially natural on bare, moisturized skin.
How do I stop bronzer looking orange?
Pick a shade only 1 to 2 shades deeper than your skin, use a lighter hand and blend the edges well. Very warm, orange bronzers suit fewer skin tones.
Can bronzing drops replace self-tanner?
No. Bronzing drops are makeup and wash off. Self-tanner develops a color that lasts for days.
Should I use bronzer and contour together?
You can. Contour goes in the hollows for shape, bronzer goes on the high points for warmth.
This guide is for general information only and isn't medical advice. If you have a skin condition or a reaction to a product, talk to a dermatologist.
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