Bronzers imitate the healthy look of the sun and are also used to warm up one’s complexion. Applying bronzer is a great way to add a healthy glow all over the face and even out color differences, especially through the neck. It’s also great for those who hate looking pale and prefer to stay out of the sun or avoid awful tanning beds.

Bronzers work on most skin tones, but it can make porcelain skin look dirty. Bronzer also works as a blush for very dark skin. On all other skin tones, blush should be used over bronzer to add a pop of bright color. When finding the bronzer that suits your skin tone best, match it against a few other tones.

Like blush, bronzer comes in different colors as well. Bronzer has an undertone other than the brown color you see on the surface. It can be brown-blue, brown-red or brown-orange.

For light skin, choose a beige/brown with a tint of pink. For medium skin, choose a brownish pink with only a bit of orange for warmth, and for dark skin, choose a brownish red. If it is too difficult to decide, go to one of your favorite makeup counters for help. My favorite bronzer is from Smashbox, which you can find at Sephora or Ulta.

Blush is used to create a healthy, pretty look. It can also be used to create the dramatic contouring sometimes seen in fashion shows and theater.

Many women think blush is unnecessary or that it’s only for older people, but once you try it for the first time with the whole look (including your favorite bronzer), it makes such a difference and pulls the whole look together! You just look more fresh and bright. I did not start wearing blush until I was 18, and now it is essential after I put on my bronzer.

For the most natural-looking blush, match the blush color to that of the cheeks when flushed from exercise. The right shade will add a pretty brightness to the face without looking obvious.

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