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Porcelain-skinned gals looking to add a pop of color can turn to a bronzer for a healthy, sun-kissed appearance. Shimmery and way safer than exposing fair skin to harmful UV rays, bronzers are the savvy girl's way to fake a tan. Available in powders, creams or gels, bronzers come in an array of shades. The key is to find one that looks natural. Porcelain skin tones can be overwhelmed by a too-dark tone. Pick the paler hue for just the right amount of gorgeous glow.
1.
Go light. You may be tempted to go with a true bronze, but it can wind up looking fake. Look for a light beige, a pale peach or a rosy hue. A good rule of thumb is to go about one shade darker than your complexion.
2.
Go easy on the shimmer. Super sparkly bronzers look beautiful in the package, but can wind up looking fake on your face. Choose a sheer or sheen shade; they'll look more natural for your everyday look. Hold off on the super shimmery shades until night.
3.
Try it on. Many stores --- especially department stores --- have testers available that allow you to try before you buy. Apply the bronzer to the underside of your wrist; if it's more than a shade darker than your skin, skip it.
4.
Choose the formula that suits your needs. Pressed or loose powder formulas tend to be easiest to apply; the color can be adjusted by adding more powder. It is also a good choice if you have fair skin that's oily. Cream or gel formulas give a dewy finish, and are ideal if skin is dry.
If you're wearing a low cut top, don't be afraid to brush a little bronzer along your collar bones too!
Bronzer is the perfect mid-day facelift. Keep an emergency stash in your car or desk just in case you need to look bright and light for that big meeting or that special someone.
