Finding the perfect bronzer to complete your look can be a daunting task. It can often seem like an endless cycle of trial and error trying to find the right balance of pigment, finish and color for your skin tone.
Whether you’re after a subtle glow or a dramatic sun-kissed look, it’s important to know what to look for in a drugstore bronzer so that you can get it just right.
To help make this easier, we have rounded up our top 5 picks of the best drugstore bronzers available on the market all conveniently ranked by price point and quality.
We take the guesswork out of finding the best products. Each product was individually selected by our editors. Some may have been sent as samples for us to try out for ourselves and some we combed through thousands of reviews to find, but all opinions in this article are our own.
P.S. LindsaysReviews may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page if you decide to buy something at no extra cost to you (that's how we stay in business and keep bringing you the best finds to save you time).
How We Chose The Best Drugstore Bronzer
When selecting the best drugstore bronzer, we looked at a variety of factors including pigment intensity, finish and color range.
We also paid close attention to customer reviews, ingredients and price points to ensure that all our picks are both high-quality and affordable.
Also we looked for affordable bronzers that can be used by a wide range of skin tones and are easy to blend.
So without further ado, here are our top 5 picks for the best drugstore bronzers.
Physicians Formula Murumuru Butter Bronzer
Why It's Our Top Pick
Physicians Formula Murumuru Butter Bronzer is a great choice for those looking for an affordable, high-quality drugstore bronzer.
The formula is infused with a blend of murumuru butter, cupuaçu butter, and tucuma butter from the nutrient-rich Amazon that helps to condition and moisturize the skin while giving it a subtle shimmer finish.
The bronzer also comes in four different shades so you can find one that best matches your skin tone. Customers are also raving about how easy the bronzer is to blend and the soft, natural finish it leaves behind.
And best of all, it’s cruelty-free. So if you’re looking for a budget-friendly, natural-looking bronzer, Physician Formula Murumuru Butter Bronzer is one of the best drugstore butter bronzers still out there.
All The Details
The Phyicians Formula Murumuru Butter Bronzer is an affordable yet high-quality drugstore bronzer. It offers a deep bronze finish and its subtle shimmer gives your face the radiant goddess glow of the tropics.
The formula is made with a blend of murumuru butter, cupuaçu butter, and tucuma butter from the nutrient-rich Amazon.
These ingredients are packed with essential fatty acids and pro-vitamins that soften, condition, and moisturize the skin for an all-day coverage.
The Physicians Formula Murumuru Butter Bronzer is dermatologist approved and perfect for all skin types, including sensitive ones. It is also cruelty-free and never tested on animals. Also, it comes in a variety of colors to find the perfect one for you.
Rimmel Natural Bronzer
Why It's Our Top Pick
Rimmel Natural Bronzer is a great choice if you’re looking for an affordable bronzer that offers a natural sun-kissed glow. The formula is waterproof and long-lasting, so it won’t require any touch-ups throughout the day.
It is also comfortable to wear and easy to apply, and comes in three different shades for light, medium, or deep skin tones. Plus, its SPF 15 protection helps protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays.
Customers love this product for its natural finish and how it blends well into the skin without leaving any streaks or patches.
And best of all, it’s cruelty-free. So if you’re looking for a drugstore bronzer that offers natural coverage and protection, Rimmel Natural Bronzer is the perfect choice.
All The Details
The Rimmel Sun Bronze Natural Bronzer is a natural-look bronzer that gives your face a sun-kissed, healthy glow without any of the hassle. It comes in flattering shades of the Sun Bronze shade, which complements fairer skin with neutral undertones for a perfect sunless tan.
The waterproof formula is smooth to apply and lasts up to 10 hours. In addition, it has an SPF 15 formula that helps protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays.
This bronzer is comfortable and easy to apply.
It has a lightweight, blendable texture that’s perfect for sculpting and contouring your face for a natural-looking finish.
Plus, it comes with an integrated brush applicator that helps you achieve the perfect shade every time.
COVERGIRL truBlend Bronzer Medium Bronze
Why It's Our Top Pick
COVERGIRL truBlend Bronzer Medium Bronze is a great choice if you’re looking for an ultra-blendable bronzer that can give lighter skin tones a beautiful, natural glow.
The marbled baked powder formula contains micro-fine pigments that blend easily and seamlessly into your skin. This gives you the perfect bronze with no harsh lines.
In addition, this bronzer is dermatologically-tested and oil-free, which makes it suitable for even sensitive and dry skin too.
This bronzer can be used as a stand-alone product or paired with COVERGIRL blushes or face powders to complete your beauty routine.
And best of all, it’s budget-friendly and a great value for the price.
All The Details
The Covergirl truBlend Bronzer is the perfect bronzing product to give you a stunning glow without it looking cakey.
Its marbled, baked formula with ultra-blendable micro-fine pigments deliver an even bronze that looks incredibly natural on all skin tones.
The subtle shimmer particles provide a sun-kissed look and the oil-free and dermatologically tested formula is suitable for even sensitive skin.
Also it's affordable. Plus, you can finish off your look with COVERGIRL blushes or face powders for an ultimate glow.
So if you're looking for an effortless way to enhance your complexion with a subtle bronze, the Covergirl truBlend Bronzer is definitely worth investing in.
Revlon Skinlights Prismatic Powder Bronzer
Why It's Our Top Pick
Are you looking for a drugstore bronzer that provides a subtle but buildable glow? Revlon Skinlights Prismatic Powder Bronzer is the perfect choice for you.
This bronzer is formulated with silky-soft texture and crystal-like pigments that give your skin a natural and sheer glow without the glitter.
The saturated pigments capture the light to make your skin look instantly bronzed while the refined pearls go on like silk for a translucent and buildable shimmer.
It’s also formulated without fragrance or parabens, so it’s suitable for even the most sensitive, oily skin.
Plus, this bronzer is available in 3 shades to suit all different skin tones too, making it a great affordable option for everyone.
And best of all, it has an SPF 20 formula to help protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays.
All The Details
The Reveon Skinlights Prismatic Powder Bronzer is an ultra-luxurious matte bronzing powder, perfect for anyone looking for a lighter shade more subtle, buildable glow.
This lightweight pressed powder bronzer is formulated with crystal-like pigments that capture the light and make skin look instantly bronzed.
Its soft texture applies like silk, giving you a light-reflecting shimmer without leaving your face looking glittery.
Plus, its formula is free of fragrance and parabens so it won’t irritate sensitive skin or aggravate acne-prone complexions.
It is available in 3 shades, all of which are easy to blend and can be used to create a natural-looking, sun-kissed look.
NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Bronzer
Why It's Our Top Pick
NYX Professional Makeup Matte Bronzer is the perfect choice for anyone looking to make makeup artists add a natural, sun-kissed glow without any glitter or shimmer.
This matte-finished bronzing powder is designed to glide on seamlessly and give you a warm, natural looking glow and-looking tan.
The formula contains light reflecting pigments to make skin look bright and even, while the cream bronzers texture ensures it blends effortlessly for a flawless finish.
And best of all, this bronzer is available in a variety of different shades so that everyone can find the perfect match for their natural skin tone.
Plus it's cruelty free, making it a great choice for those who are conscious about what goes into their makeup products.
All The Details
The NYX Professional Makeup Matte Bronzer is the perfect pick for a subtle, sun-kissed look.
This affordable yet high quality drugstore bronzer comes in different shades to suit all skin tones and provides a matte finish for an airbrushed finish.
With its light weight formula, you won’t experience any caking or heavy feeling on your face.
The pigmentation is also buildable, so you can adjust it to suit your desired intensity.
Whether you’re looking for a subtle glow or a dramatic bronzed look, the NYX Professional Makeup Matte Bronzer has got you covered.
This top drugstore bronzer comes in at an affordable price point and will give you a natural, sun kissed complexion.
Best Drugstore Bronzer FAQs
Is it possible to find the best drugstore bronzer?
Yes! With so many options on the market, you can easily find a great drugstore bronzer that will give you the perfect glow. Just make sure to check the ingredients list and read reviews before making your purchase so that you can find a product that is suitable for your skin type and tone.
Can I use bronzer on my face every day?
Yes, you can use bronzer every day, but it’s important to remember that a little goes a long way. Too much bronzer can make your skin look fake or mannequin-like, so start off with a subtle amount and build up slowly until you achieve your desired look.
What ingredients should I look for in the best drugstore bronzer?
When looking for the best drugstore bronzer, it’s important to make sure that the product is free of parabens, sulfates and other harsh chemicals. Look for products that contain natural ingredients such as cocoa butter or shea butter, which can help nourish and protect the skin. Also, make sure that the bronzer has a light, creamy texture that blends easily for an even and natural-looking finish.
Do I need use a brush to apply my bronzer?
Yes, it’s best to use a brush when applying your bronzer. A flat-top or angled brush is ideal for blending the product into your skin and achieving an even, natural-looking finish. Try using a medium sized brush with firm bristles for more precise application.
Does the best drugstore bronzer have to be expensive?
No, you don’t have to spend a fortune to get the perfect bronzer. There are plenty of options available at affordable prices that will give you great results. Just make sure to choose a product that is suitable for your skin tone and type, and read reviews before purchasing so that you can get the best quality product for the best price.
Should I apply bronzer before or after foundation?
It’s best to apply bronzer after you have applied your foundation and any other face makeup. Applying bronzer over foundation will help cream bronzer a more natural-looking finish, giving you the perfect sun kissed glow.
How can I make sure that my bronzer looks natural?
The key to achieving a natural-looking tan is making sure that your drugstore cream bronzer blends seamlessly into your skin. Start by lightly dusting the product onto your face in circular motions and then blend it outward using a brush or beauty sponge. This will help ensure that the color is evenly distributed on fair skin and looks natural.
Can I use bronzer as a contour?
Yes, you can use bronzer to contour your face. Just make sure to choose a product with a matte finish and apply it to the hollows of your cheeks, temples and jawline. This will help give your face more dimension and definition.
Are there any tips for making the best drugstore bronzer last all day?
Yes! The key to making your bronzer last all day is to set it with a light dusting of loose powder. This will help keep the product in place and give you an airbrushed finish that won’t budge.
Will drugstore bronzer work for all skin tones?
Yes, there are plenty of great drugstore bronzers available that will work for all skin tones. Just make sure to choose a product that is suitable for your specific skin type and color so that you can get the perfect sun kissed glow.
Best Drugstore Bronzer For You
In conclusion, drugstore bronzers provide a great option to achieve beautiful sun-kissed skin without blowing your budget.
Whether you’re aiming for a subtle, radiant glow, or vibrant definition, there are plenty of fantastic formulas to choose from.
Happy shopping and we hope you find your perfect bronzer match.
And check out some of our other affordable and favorite drugstore products next.
Lindsay Sewell
Lindsay Sewell
Lindsay Sewell
Lindsay Sewell
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