Although we’re obsessed with sunscreen, those of us on the paler end of the skin tone spectrum love the hint of sun-kissed warmth that arrives with summer—or, if we’re lucky, the occasional tropical getaway. But in addition to carrying a risk of sun damage, that gorgeous bronze look fades all too soon. Read on to discover ways to get a summery glow that lasts all year long—no aging rays required.
Self-tanning products come in a variety of formulas and shades, so you can choose the one best suited to your needs. Quality spray varieties, like Sublime Bronze ProPerfect Salon Airbrush Mist, offer directed control and superfine dispensing so you’ll get the perfect amount right where you want it. This Sublime Bronze star also features a wide-angle jet applicator for quicker coverage. Tip to remember: shower and exfoliate first, so skin is smooth and prepped for even application.
Nothing gives an instantly gratifying glow like bronzer. For the most natural-looking results, choose a powder formula that blends well—we like Glam Bronze Bronzing Powder—in a shade that’s not too much darker than your skin tone. Using a brush, sweep over areas you’d naturally get some color after an afternoon at the beach: cheekbones, the bridge of the nose, chin and forehead. Make sure to blend well. You can also use bronzer to add dimension to your face. Apply just under cheekbones and around the edges of the jawline for supermodel bone structure in seconds.
Another way to get glowing is with a highlighting or luminizing product. Magic Lumi Light Infusing Primer gives skin an instant lit-from-within radiance. It can be used alone, under makeup or mixed with foundation or moisturizer for an all-over boost. For more targeted luminosity, try a pen-style highlighter like Magic Lumi Highlighter. Available in 3 shades, this versatile makeup must-have can be applied to the under eye area to banish dark circles, or to the tops of cheekbones and brown bones (or anywhere else you want to add glow).
A healthy flush will perk up even the dullest complexion and add warmth to your overall look. For a sunny effect, choose peachy pink, bronze or coral tones. If your skin is fair, choose a shade with more pink in it. If you have medium or darker skin, you can pull off deeper coral and bronze hues. A few of our favorites are Magic Smooth Souffle Blush in Angelic, True Match™ Blush in Subtle Sable and The One Sweep™ Sculpting Blush Duo in Nectar, which comes with a darker contour shade on one side.
Any lipstick fan or gloss aficionado knows what a mega transformation just a single swipe can make. Even if you’re completely bare-faced, the right lip hue can create the illusion of a warmer skin tone and instantly brighten your appearance. Our pick: Colour Riche® Colour Caresse in Sunset Angora. This sunny coral shade flatters a range of skin tones and its lightweight, glossy finish looks fresh.