For fair-skinned redheads, getting a nice glow means pulling out all the stops. Embracing faux tan, bronzer, and bronzing products is the safest way for redheads to achieve a glowy look this summer. If you don’t have a sunless tan or you want a little bit of a glow and color in your face, you can achieve that look with just two products — and you probably already have them in your bathroom:
Step 1: Grab your favorite liquid bronzer + moisturizer
Mixing liquid bronzer and moisturizer together will not only give you a nice glow but also hydrate your face, leaving you naturally dewy and fresh-faced. The best part about this combo is that you can completely customize it to look how you want! Also, this will give you that glow-from-within look you can’t quite achieve when applying bronzer as part of your makeup routine. Here’s a simple method to get it right:
- Start with Clean Skin: Make sure your face is clean and moisturized. This helps create a smooth base for your bronzer and prevents it from looking patchy.
- Mix in Your Hands: Squeeze a small amount of your moisturizer onto the back of your hand. Then, add a small amount of bronzer. You might want to start with a bit of bronzer and add more if needed. Mix them together using your fingers or a brush.
- Apply Sparingly: Gently apply the mixture to your face. You can use your fingers or a makeup sponge for a more even application. Focus on the high points of your face where the sun naturally hits (cheekbones, forehead, nose bridge, and chin).
- Blend Well: Ensure the mixture is well-blended into your skin to avoid streaks or uneven color. You can use a clean makeup sponge or brush to blend it out further.
- Adjust as Needed: If you find the color too intense, you can mix in more moisturizer or blend it with a clean brush. If it’s too subtle, you can add a little more bronzer to the mix.
- Set if Desired: If you want your bronzed look to last longer, set it with a translucent powder or a setting spray.
This technique is excellent for a natural, sun-kissed look and can be customized to fit your desired level of glow. Just remember, you can always start with less bronzer and build up as needed.
Step 2: Pick your products
You can use either a liquid bronzer or bronzing drops when doing this, and your regular moisturizer. If you’re choosing a new moisturizer, opt for something hydrating and not too liquid. Adding the bronzer will thin out your moisturizer a bit, so you want to keep it thick enough to handle.
Step 3: Customize for your coloring
Start with a little bronzer until you get the feel for it; you can always add more. Remember that these products will sit under your SPF and foundation (if you’re wearing any), so make sure you add enough to help it shine through. You can always top off your look with more bronzer once you finish your makeup. We also love this technique for a no-makeup day, or at least a no-foundation day, as it lets your skin shine.
Step 4: Application is Key
You can apply your moisturizer like normal, but you want to thoroughly blend it. If you leave edges unblended, those may show a harsh color contrast. Blend your moisturizer + bronzer combo onto your neck and around your hairline for the most natural look. Follow these additional tips:
- Prep Your Skin Thoroughly:
- Exfoliate: Exfoliate regularly to ensure smooth skin. This helps achieve an even application and prevents the bronzer from settling into dry patches.
- Hydrate: Use a good moisturizer that suits your skin type. Hydrated skin helps the bronzer and moisturizer mix seamlessly and gives a more natural finish.
- Choose the Right Tools:
- Brushes and Sponges: Use a clean makeup sponge or a stippling brush for blending. These tools help achieve a more seamless application and prevent streaks.
- Clean Hands: If you mix and apply with your hands, ensure they are clean to avoid transferring any impurities to your face.
- Find the Right Ratio:
- Start Small: Begin with a small amount of bronzer and gradually add more until you achieve the desired intensity. This prevents over-application and helps you control the color better.
- Mix Properly: Blend the bronzer and moisturizer thoroughly on your hand or mixing palette to ensure an even distribution before applying to your face.
- Apply with Technique:
- Apply in Layers: Start with a thin layer and build up. Apply the mixture in light, even strokes or dabs, rather than applying too much at once.
- Focus on High Points: Apply the mixture to the high points of your face, such as the cheekbones, forehead, nose bridge, and chin. This mimics where the sun naturally hits your face.
- Blend, Blend, Blend:
- Seamless Blending: Use a clean brush or sponge to blend the mixture into your skin. Could you be sure to blend outwards from the center of your face to avoid harsh lines?
- Check in Natural Light: Make sure to check your application in natural light to ensure it looks even and natural.
- Adjust Based on Light and Finish:
- Sheer vs. Intense: If you prefer a more subtle glow, use less bronzer. For a more intense glow, you can mix in more bronzer.
- Finishing Touches: After blending, if you notice any unevenness, gently go over it with a clean brush or sponge to smooth it out.
- Set and Maintain:
- Setting Powder/Spray: To ensure longevity, set your face with translucent powder or a setting spray. This helps lock in the glow and prevent it from fading throughout the day.
- Regular Touch-ups: If needed, carry a small amount of bronzer and a brush or sponge for touch-ups.
You’ll find the perfect balance and technique that works best for you with practice. Enjoy experimenting to find your ideal glow.
Rock it like a Redhead!
RELATED POSTS
READ: Why Redheads Should Know About The New “Glowy SPF” Category
