Bronzer - And How to Use It

What is a bronzer?
Bronzers are basically powders or creams that are applied to the skin to get a kind of a tanned look. It is usually used by people who want to achieve a tanned look without having to go out in the sun. This tanned look was basically associated with people who go out and work but it has now attained popularity even among the fair skinned people as it makes the skin look more toned, glowing and perfect.

How to use a bronzer?
The procedure of applying bronzers can be basically divided into three stages. They are
i) Pre-application
ii) Application
iii) Post-application
Now the steps to be followed under the three stages would be discussed clearly in the subsequent paragraphs.

1) Pre-application stage:
This is basically a stage where you create a strong foundation for the second stage. This stage helps the bronzer application to be more effective and precise and it helps in not creating a very smudgy and thicker look.
a) Always wash the skin with a very good cleanser before applying the bronzer as it would help clear those clogged pores and also help the application process to be smoother.
b) Know your skin type as it would be helpful in finding out the right bronzer for you. If you have dry skin, go for the creams and if you have oily or combination skin, take the powdered bronze as it would not give a very oily and sticky look.
c) Its better not to use or use very little foundation as the bronzer would create splotches or not blend well if used with a foundation. And if you have to use the foundation, then use powdered bronzer along with the foundation.
d) Use a bronzer which is two tones darker than your skin tone as it would look more natural. Go for colours which are more natural and would blend with the tone of your skin. Don't go for too dark a shade or very light shades.

2) Application stage:
This is the main course of the entire activity and has to be done carefully in order to get the best results.
a) Bronzers should be applied or areas which are more exposed to sun.
b) The application should be nice, gentle and circular in motion.
c) The application of the bronzer should be even. It means that there should be no excess applications in certain areas and very little on others. The bronzed portion should not look like striped portions.
d) A nice rounded brush should be used for applying the powdered bronzers as the application would be more even and easier.
e) Stop with a single coating and don't overdo as the skin would look very thick and artificial.
f) It's always better to go with the powdered bronzer as it is lighter and it can always be converted into a cream by adding some water to it.
g) Take care of the regions closer to the eyes. The bronzer should not come in touch with the eyes.
h) Bronzers can also be used in place of a blush over the cheekbones.

3) Post-application stage:
The following are some of the dos and don'ts to be followed immediately after applying the bronzer.
a) Do not let any kind of clothing touch the bronzed portion atleast one hour after the application.
b) Wash your hands immediately after the application for hygiene purposes.
c) Apply bronzers ideally after taking a shower because any water sprinkled on the bronzed portion would wash away the bronzer completely and nullify the effect of the bronzer on your skin.

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