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The two basic categories that bronzers fall into are powders and creams, and each has its own benefits. Cream bronzers are amazing because they’re naturally easier to work with and can potentially be more blendable than powders. If you’ve never tried a cream bronzer and are curious to know more about them, we’re here to share just how incredible they are!
Why Should I Choose a Cream Bronzer Over Powder?
One is truly not better than the other, but cream and powder bronzers serve different needs. Makeup artist Neil Scibelli explained to POPSUGAR that while powder formulas tend to be more matte, which is ideal for oily or combination skin, a cream bronzer creates more of “a skinlike bronzed finish.” If you want a “glow-from-within look,” then a cream bronzer is your best bet!
Cream bronzers come in all forms, and even if you do have more oily skin, you can still find one that fits your complexion. You can pick up a bronzer that’s more sheer, a more pigmented option or one that’s packed with shimmer. There are even variations that will leave you with a more matte finish! With all of the varieties out there, how can you know which bronzer is the best pick for you? There’s no need to stress out, because we’ve hand-picked the best of the best with all of the info you need to make your choice below!
11 Amazing Cream Bronzers for a Natural Sun-Kissed Glow Anastasia Beverly Hills Cream Bronzer
Although cream bronzers may have a reputation for having a more natural or dewey finish, this one is matte. It may be an ideal option for oily or combination skin! With the proper brushes, you can use it to create a natural sun-kissed glow or chisel out your cheekbones to contour.
Pros
- Works as bronzer and contour Matte finish Long-lasting wear Great shade range
Cons
- More expensive
Available at: Sephora, Ulta, Nordstrom
CHANEL LES BEIGES Healthy Glow Bronzing Cream
If you’re looking for a splurge-worthy product, this is the one! The formula has a cream gel consistency that feels weightless on the skin, and can definitely be built up for a more dramatic color payoff. Plus, no one can deny how chic Chanel’s iconic logo will look displayed on any vanity!
Pros
- Super lightweight Buildable color Blendable
Cons
- Luxury price Limited color options
e.l.f. Cosmetics Putty Bronzer
A great cream bronzer doesn’t have to cost a ton of money, and this one proves it! The formula of this bronzer actually starts as cream, and then dries into a powder. This unique feature makes it easier to work with, and if you have oily skin but don’t want a matte finish, this one will do the trick for you.
Pros
- Cream-to-powder formula Super affordable Great shade options
Cons
- Not super pigmented
Available at: Ulta, Target, Amazon
Fenty Beauty Cheeks Out Freestyle Cream Bronzer
Shoppers are obsessed with this bronzer because it’s incredibly pigmented. A little definitely goes a long way! There are colors available that are great for both contouring and creating a sun-kissed glow on the skin. It gives you a substantial natural look that will help you shine from within!
Pros
- Super creamy Great shade options Very pigmented
Cons
- More expensive May be hard to work with
MILK MAKEUP Matte Cream Bronzer Stick
Though the title suggests that this is a matte product, the finish is definitely more natural-looking. We love the stick packaging, which is great if you’re doing your makeup on-the-go and don’t want to deal with fussy brushes. The color is blendable and leaves you with a fresh-faced look that shoppers adore!
Pros
- Stick packaging Easy application Natural-looking result
Cons
- Only two colors available
Available at: Sephora
UNDONE BEAUTY Water Bronzer
For just a hint of bronzy color, this is the product for you! Don’t let the dark color scare you, as the formula is actually incredibly light. It’s a water-based product so it’s seriously hydrating, and just like the MILK bronzer, the stick packaging makes it a breeze when it comes to application.
Pros
- Stick packaging Easy application Incredibly lightweight Affordable
Cons
- Color may be too light for some
Available at: Amazon
Kaja Play Bento Cream Trio
Why just buy a cream bronzer when you can receive everything you need in one package? This trio is designed to work together, with the cream bronzer as the base. Shoppers actually single out the bronzer as the best product of the group, so snagging a blush and highlight in addition to that is a great bonus.
Pros
- Three-in-one Pigmented formula Easy application
Cons
- Fewer shades available A bit more expensive
Rimmel Jelly Bronzer
This bronzer has more of a gel consistency, which may feel more refreshing on the skin instead of cream formulas. If you have oilier skin but still want the benefits of cream products, a gel bronzer like this one could be a solid choice for you. It’s designed to blend into the skin for the ultimate natural look!
Pros
- Super affordable Gel formula Blendable
Cons
- Only one shade available
Available at: Amazon
Persona DreamStick Cream Bronzing Multi-Stick
This is more than just a cream bronzer! You can use it to warm up your skin, and apply it on the eyes or lips for a soft bronzy look! The color is buildable and blendable, and the packaging helps you target the areas you want with expert precision.
Pros
- Multi-purpose product Stick packaging Seamless finish
Cons
- Only two shades available
Available at: Ulta
Well People Supernatural Stick Bronzer
If you’re looking for a bronzer to give your skin warmth and make you glow, pick out this one! The formula has ample shimmer in it that can catch the light and make you look truly radiant.
Pros
- Luminous, shimmery finish Stick packaging Nice shade range Affordable
Cons
- Finding the right color may be tricky
Available at: Target
Tower 28 Beauty Bronzino Illuminating Cream Bronzer
There are shimmery bronzers on the market, and then there’s this one! It’s packed with light-reflecting pigments that will create the ultimate goddess aesthetic. It does the job of a bronzer and highlighter in one swoop, and shoppers say you can also use it over a matte bronzer if you want to create a more glossy complexion.
Pros
- Packed with shimmer Great shade range Can be used with other products
Cons
- May be too shimmery for some A few shoppers say it’s difficult to blend
Available at: Sephora
Still haven’t found what you’re looking for? Check out these related product articles below:
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