The Best Cheap and Steep Bronzers You Can Buy

When it comes to bronzers, the best products aren't found in the drugstore. Though you don't need to purchase the most expensive brand available in order to look good, it's worth investing in something a little more high end.

And let's not forget about the importance of proper bronzer application. Using a big brush, blow off the excess and apply to spots where the sun naturally hits: the forehead, cheeks, and nose.

When buying a bronzer, keep in mind that though most bronzers come in powder form, a dewy look is better achieved with a cream.

01

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Guerlain Terracotta Bronzing Powder

This bronzer is a staple in 'InStyle' magazine's annual 'Best Beauty' lists. The color isn't too orange which can be a problem with bronzers.

If you get a lighter color (say, 2) then you can layer more color for darker results. There's a bit of sheen or shimmer which looks great, too. The 1 is perfect for blondes with pale skin, and the 2 is for brunettes. The 20 is moisturizing and perfect for those who tan naturally. You can use different shades for different times of the year.

02

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LORAC TANtalizer Baked Bronzer

This is the bronzer used by Khloe Kardashian's makeup artist. It's beloved by reviewers on Amazon.com for being subtle and natural. Use it to contour your face.

03

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NARS Bronzing Powder

This is one of the most popular bronzers rated on Makeupalley.com. Users love it because it goes on without looking "dirty." Although pricey, the powder will last a long time, and if you use it almost daily, the cost per use is worth it. It comes in 3 shades. Choose your favorite.

For the best results, apply it with a big, fluffy bronzer brush. If desired, you can use a smaller brush to create contouring just under the cheekbones.

04

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Iman Afterglow Bronzer

It's rare that a product gets a perfect score on Makeupalley.com, but Iman's bronzer does. Of the users who tried this, 100 percent said they would buy it again at the time of this writing.

This bronzer was created for women of color and can act as a blush or a bronzer depending on skin tone. Use the darker of the trio of the colors for a bronzer effect and the lighter 2 colors for a blush. Many women apply it with a Kabuki brush (buy from Amazon).

05

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MAC Mineralize Skinfinish Give Me Sun Powder for Women

MAC is a beloved brand for so many women and their bronzer is a favorite product. Users love its natural look, which isn't muddy or too orange. It's one of those favorites that a MAC lover buys again and agai, and it comes in various shades.

06

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Estee Lauder Bronze Goddess

This is another very popular, tried-and-true bronzer. You can use the dual shade in summer and winter, using more of the darker shade for summer and the lighter for winter. It's great for oily skin.

07

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Laura Mercier Bronzing Powder

This is, hands down, my favorite bronzer. I am fair and find that even the lightest shade (Matte Bronzer) gives me color. I like that it has no shimmer in it. I use a huge brush and apply to all the usual spots.

08

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The Body Shop Bronzing Powder

If you are looking for a very natural sun-kissed look with little-to-no shimmer, give this medium-priced bronzer a shot. It's beloved by users and one of those oldie-but-goodie products that has stood the test of time.

09

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RMS Buriti Bronzer

While most bronzers come in powder form, some come in creams, like this wonderful bronzer from RMS. Buriti is a great pick for anyone looking for a dewy look. It's not drying like powders can is formulated with Vitamin A and Beta-carotene rich Buriti oil.

This bronzer is marketed as an "ultra-sheer cream bronzer" that "is a huge step away from the typical traditional orangey/sparkly bronzers that saturate the market."