There is definitely an art to choosing and applying the right bronzer for your skin tone. 

Here’s a guideline for you:

Beauty Tip #1 – If you’re fair skinned, choose “a pale beige with rosy gold undertones”; avoid red- or orange-based colors.  For believable color, never go darker than you’d naturally get in the sun in two weeks.  If you’re olive skinned, a deep tan shade with gold undertones is for you.

Beauty Tip #2- Apply bronzer only where the sun would hit, i.e. the apples of the cheeks, the bridge of the nose, and around the hairline.  If you apply over your whole face, you risk it looking like a mask.  You also want to use a highlighter on the tops of your cheekbones, your brows, and the bow of our top lip so your face doesn’t look flat.

Beauty Tip #3- Pressed powders are generally easier to apply than loose ones or gels, especially if you prefer a subtle look.  Dip a large, fluffy brush into the powder, then tap it on a tissue; otherwise, you’ll get too much color on your face.  If, however, you have mastered gel or creams and you’re after a more intense bronzed effect, pat on this type of bronzer in an upward motion with your fingertips.

Beauty Tip #4- Try to apply bronzer in natural light, near a window.  If you don’t, you may walk outside and realize how horrible it looks.  If a window’s not available, go to the brightest indoor lighting you can find. And don’t use a compact mirror or you might not notice your face turning a different color than the rest of you.

Beauty Tip #5 – Don’t overdo the application – you can always add more but it’s hard to take it away.  If you’ve applied too much, you can soften the effect with serious blending.

Beauty Tip #6- Don’t over-shimmer!  Stick with matte for daytime and shimmer only in the evening or you will look greasy.  Even at night, shimmer with the smallest flecks available.

Click here for a video that shows you the proper way to apply bronzer!