For the Most Natural-Looking Glow, There's Only One Product That Cuts It

I used to bake out in the sun for hours on end to get that sun-kissed glow. All you had to do was hand me some headphones, an ice-cold beverage, and some SPF, and I'd be golden (pun intended). But now I'm trying to be a little bit better about my sun exposure and avoid sun damage, even if I'm slathering on the sunscreen. So I'm extra careful about how long I spend out sunbathing nowadays, and I'm extra vigilant about applying and reapplying and then reapplying SPF. Don't get me wrong; you'll still find me poolside or lounging on the beach, but most of the time, I try to seek shelter under an umbrella.

Now that I limit my sun exposure, that glow doesn't come as easily. So I've been leaning on bronzers to get that natural-looking radiance, especially in the summer months.

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(Image credit: @joannacoops)

I used to be strictly all about powder bronzers, but I recently tried some cream formulas and instantly became obsessed. The creamy consistency makes my skin look even more radiant and dewier. Some powders can look cakey or can crease, especially when it's hot out, but with cream bronzers, I get that effortlessly blended finish.

I normally apply it very lightly with my fingers or a brush on my cheekbones, temples, nose, and chin. Lightly is key here for me so it seems more natural and not like I overdid it. It also gives me more room to build on the color if I want a little bit more.

Take a look at some cream bronzers I love plus other editors' and readers' favorites below.

Apply Your Bronzer With These Brushes

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This article was originally published at an earlier date and has been updated.

Managing Editor

Sarah is lifestyle writer and editor with over 10 years of experience covering health and wellness, interior design, food, beauty, and tech. Born and raised in Los Angeles, she attended New York University and lived in New York for 12 years before returning to L.A. in 2019.

In addition to her work on THE/THIRTY and Who What Wear, she held editor roles at Apartment Therapy, Real Simple, House Beautiful, Elle Decor, and The Bump (sister site of The Knot).

She has a passion for health and wellness, but she especially loves writing about mental health. Her self-care routine consists of five things: a good workout, “me” time on the regular, an intriguing book/podcast/playlist to unwind after a long day, naps, and decorating her home.