The Bronzed and the Beautiful

A little less than a week ago—despite the abnormally cool weather we’ve been having here in Charleston (don't be fooled, my friends, the humidity is coming)—the first day of summer officially swept in with the tide. The patron of the beach inside of me jumps with joy at the thoughts of the sand, the sun, and the drinks on the beach. The makeup artist that I am, however, cringes at the thought of my gorgeous clients possibly delighting a bit too much in the fun of the sun and going without the holy water of the makeup world—SUNSCREEN—as they long to get that perfect tan or that golden glow. I have one word for you naughty girls that look to the sun for color... bronzer!!!!

The key, my friend, is to understand bronzer, to know which tools to apply it with, and simply how to apply the makeup correctly. I will make it quite simple so that there will be no excuses.

Get Equipped

Bronzers come in different formulas: gels, sticks, lotions, and powders. I would have to say my favorite is powder since, as an artist, I find it easiest to work with. You can find many fabulous bronzers in both high-end department stores and in drugstores. My favorites are Guerlain for a luxury spurge and Physicians Formula for the perfect drugstore find. Both are fabulous and easy to work with. For olive skin, go with a more golden or peachy tone. For fair skin, use a pinky or shell tone.

The one thing that I would not skimp out on is the brush. The perfect tool makes all the difference and is well worth giving up a night of drinks with the girls or a dinner out to be able to afford the proper bronzer brush. Your brush, or should I say your magic wand that will impart the perfect amount of radiant bronze to the skin, should be very soft. The general rule is that the softer the brush, the less color you apply, therefore making the application more sheer, seamless, and mistake-proof.

Now Get the Glow

After liberally applying your sunscreen... I am watching you honey (wink)... do the following:

Dip your brush into the bronzer and then tap it off. Start on the cheek while you are smiling and sweep up—this is where you want the majority of the color. Do the same on the other side.

Next, on the right side of the face, sweep the brush in the shape of the number 3, starting on the forehead. On the left side, sweep in the shape of the letter E, again, starting at the forehead. 

Take what is left on the brush and sweep a small amount on the tip of the nose, chin, and, don't forget my darlings, a little sweep under the chin so that everything is uniform and natural looking.

And voila! You have you just saved your skin from the horrid damages of the sun but now have that sun-kissed color. I have to say, you have just made me a proud little makeup artist!!

Xoxo

Andrew