How Redheads Can Rock: Bronzer

For redheads getting into makeup, staying within the “neutral” boxes and following some of the outdated makeup guidelines you’ll see online can be tempting. We want redheads to understand that you can rock anything! Like our How to Wear series, we’ve started the “How to Rock” series focusing on makeup trends, unique makeup, and even the makeup styles that redheads are told not to wear. This time, we’re talking about rocking bronzer.

Lots of redheads have a complicated relationship with bronzer. You want that sun-kissed glow but don’t want your hair and skin to look the same color. Bronzer isn’t one size fits all; as redheads, we must learn what shades work for us, where to apply them, and how to avoid looking too tan, especially if we have fair skin. Don’t worry; we’ve got some tips for redheads who want to learn how to rock a little bronzer.

Picking the right bronzer

The key to a good bronzer look is having the right shade for your skin tone. For redheads, this may vary depending on how fair you are. Usually, a good rule of thumb is to opt for a bronzer that is anywhere from 1 to 4 shades darker than your skin. We recommend going 1-2 shades darker if you’re starting. You can always build on the color, but anything too dark will look muddy.

The next thing you want to think about is the finish and shade. Bronzers range in pigment levels, so if you’re worried about it being too dark or heavy, opt for lightly pigmented. It’s also important to understand that bronzer is usually warm-toned, while contour is cool-toned. For redheads, it’s best to go with a bronzer that’s more neutral-warm. Opt for something with pink or peach undertones rather than anything too deep or orange; this will complement your skin better. No-shimmer or low-shimmer bronzers often look best on fair skin.

Application tips

When starting with bronzer, you want to have a light hand. Use a large fluffy brush to apply the bronzer to the high points of your face. Your cheekbones, forehead, nose, chin, and temples are good spots. Gently dust the bronzer and add more until you get your desired look. Be sure to check your bronzer in natural and artificial lighting to ensure you don’t have any lines or haven’t gone too dark. The amount of bronzer a fair-skinned redhead looks good will differ vastly from someone with darker skin.

1. Choose the right shade

For Redheads: Opt for a bronzer with warm, golden, or peachy undertones rather than more excellent or overly dark shades. These colors complement red hair and fair skin without creating a stark contrast.
General Tip: To avoid an unnatural look, select a bronzer that is only a shade or two darker than your natural skin tone.

2. Apply sparingly

For Redheads: Since redheads often have fair skin, start with a small amount of bronzer. Too much product can overwhelm your natural coloring.
General Tip: Less is more. You can always add more if needed, but it’s harder to correct if you apply too much.

3. Focus on high points

For Redheads: Apply bronzer to areas where the sun naturally hits your face: the tops of your cheekbones, the bridge of your nose, and your forehead. This will give a natural sun-kissed glow.
General Tip: These high points are typically the areas that catch the light, enhancing the natural shape of your face.

4. Blend thoroughly

For Redheads: Blend the bronzer well into your skin to avoid harsh lines. This is especially important for redheads, as the contrast can be more noticeable.
General Tip: Use a fluffy brush or a makeup sponge to blend bronzer into your skin. Circular motions work best to diffuse the color evenly.

5. Build up gradually

For Redheads: Start with a light application and slowly build the color. This approach helps you achieve a natural-looking glow without overdoing it.
General Tip: Apply bronzer in layers, checking in natural light to ensure it blends seamlessly with your skin tone.

6. Check your lighting

For Redheads: Always check your makeup in natural light to ensure the bronzer looks natural and blends well with your complexion.
General Tip: Artificial lighting can sometimes distort makeup, so natural light is the best way to gauge your bronzer’s effect.

7. Consider a matte vs. shimmer formula

For Redheads: Matte bronzers often work better for fair skin, providing a more natural look. If you prefer shimmer, choose a subtle one to avoid overwhelming your delicate coloring.
General Tip: Matte bronzers are great for contouring and creating a natural tan, while shimmer bronzers add a luminous glow.

8. Adjust for different seasons

For Redheads: Due to natural tanning, you can use a slightly darker shade in the summer. In the winter, stick with lighter shades to match your paler complexion.
General Tip: Adjust the bronzer shade and intensity according to your seasonal skin tone to maintain a natural look year-round.

By following these tips, you can achieve a flattering and natural bronzed look that enhances your features beautifully.

Pairing bronzer with other makeup

Bronzer can add warmth and dimension to your face, but it might feel too much. Pair your bronzer with blush and highlight to help illuminate the face and balance it out. Soft bronzers can be worn with just a little makeup, but if you want to go full bronze, you’ll probably want to add something to your eyes and lips to help them look cohesive.