Get glowing with these expert tips on where to put your bronzer for a natural, sun-kissed look & how to apply bronzer as a contour.
There’s nothing like a sweep of bronzer to give your complexion an effortless golden glow. Brush up on your bronzer application technique and get ready to dial up the radiance…
What is bronzer used for?
If you’re missing bronzer out of your make-up routine, you’re missing a trick. Whether you want a fresh, radiant glow or a touch of glamorous warmth (or something in between), bronzer can help give you a gorgeously sun-kissed complexion.
What else is bronzer used for? We’re glad you asked. Applied in the right way, bronzer can be used to sculpt, define and contour your face, adding depth and dimension.
You can use bronzer as part of a more detailed make-up routine. Because of how buildable it is, you can use bronzer to achieve anything from a subtle hint of warmth to all-out glamour.
Different types of bronzer make-up: powder vs. cream
Bronzers tend to come in either powder or cream formulas. Picking a bronzer is down to personal preference, but you may want to consider your skin type and desired finish when choosing between a powder and cream bronzer.
If you’re looking for a healthy looking glow, try a cream bronzer like No7 Pro Artist Soft Glow Cream Bronzer, which offers a lightweight blendable-but-buildable formula for a customisable sun-kissed glow.
Powder formulas like No7 Matte Bronzing Powder offer a more matte finish, which might be a better option for oilier skin types.
For a totally bespoke bronze , glow your own way with a duo product like No7 Perfectly Bronzed Dual Bronzer, which has two shades to help you blend and build your look from natural glow to sun-kissed bronze.
Where to put bronzer: key areas to focus on
Whether you’re new to using bronzer or just need a refresher on how to apply it, the first step to a flawless radiance is knowing where to put your bronzer. This will depend on the results you want to achieve.
For a warm, subtle glow all year round, the number one rule for bronzer application is to use it where the sun naturally catches your face.
For contour and definition, apply bronzer to the hollow parts of your bone structure, such as under your cheekbones, around your temples and your jaw line.
Take a look at our tutorials below for step-by-step tips on bronzer application.
How to apply bronzer: step-by-step guide
First things first: to really get the most out of your make-up application, you need the right tools for the job. When it comes to applying bronzer, choosing the perfect brush will make all the difference to your results.
A big, fluffy brush like the No7 Bronzer Brush is ideal for adding warmth to all the right places. Alternatively, to sculpt and contour, try the .
Next, it’s time to select your perfect bronzer. Whether you’re using a cream or powder bronzer, choose appropriate shade according to your skin tone, for a beautiful sun-kissed finish.
Now we’re ready to apply. Different application techniques deliver different results, so check out the step-by-steps for each method and decide which is best for your desired look.
How to apply bronzer for a sun-kissed glow
Step 1: If you’re using a powder bronzer like No7 Matte Bronzing Powder, swirl your bronzing brush into your bronzer then tap off any excess before sweeping onto your face, using circular motions to ensure its beautifully blended.
If you’re using a cream bronzer like No7 Pro Artist Soft Glow Cream Bronzer, you can use a big fluffy brush like the No7 Bronzer Brush or your fingertips and apply your bronzer in circular motions.
Step 2: Apply a light amount of bronzer to the areas of your face where the sun naturally hits, such as your cheekbones, nose, temples, chin and decolletage.
Step 3: Repeat to slowly build up and blend your bronzer to the desired depth.
How to apply bronzer to sculpt & contour
Step 1: Use your make-up brush to apply bronzer to the sides of your nose, below your cheekbones and along your jawline.
Step 2: Use a sculpting brush like to blend your bronzer up and out.
Step 3: Add even more depth and dimension by applying highlighter onto the higher points of your face, such as cheekbones, brow bones, Cupid’s bow and the bridge of your nose. The No7 Perfectly Bronzed Dual Bronzer is a great choice for this technique, as it has both products in one.
Top tips for a natural-looking bronzed glow
Now you know where to put your bronzer and the perfect ways to apply it, it’s time to take a look at some top tips to help make sure your look stays flawless and fabulous all day.
Bronzer tip #1: Use your bronzer sparingly and build it up until you’ve achieved your desired look.
Bronzer tip #2: Always tap off any excess powder if you’re using a powder bronzer.
Bronzer tip #3: Don’t forget to blend to avoid harsh lines. Use circular motions for a truly flawless finish.
Bronzer tip #4: Pair your bronzer with blush or highlighter (or both) to add even more depth.
You’re good to glow! All that’s left to do is set your look in place with a setting spray or powder such as Pro Artist Finishing Touch Fixing Spray or Flawless Finishing Loose Powder.
Shop all No7 bronzers and make-up brushes for everything you need to complete your look.
