Battle of the Bronzers

As the summer months disappear and the cold, crisp winter days arrive we all start to lose that beloved, radiant summer tan.  However, with the help of these bronzers, mastering that gentle golden glow in the winter months isn't all that hard!

Illamasqua Powder Blush in Disobey

Officially, this shade isn't classed as a bronzer because Illamasqua have actually put it within their 'Powder Blusher' range…however, I think this is the perfect bronzing shade. It’s not too dark, not too light, not at all orange and the perfect "biscuit" shade for paler complexions.   Like most other Illamasqua products, Disobey comes in sleek black, glossy packaging.  Illamasqua say their Powder Blushers are "colour-intense and highly pigmented", and they are absolutely right about the pigmentation, a little goes a long way.  Disobey can definitely be used as a blush or bronzer and as it’s matte it’s also ideal for subtly contouring the face (I like to use a Real Techniques Multitask Brush), especially for fairer skin tones as it doesn't create that "muddy" effect some bronzers give, its also really finely milled so goes on effortlessly.

Verdict: A lovely multi-purpose bronzer, blush and contourer that is great for paler skin, I think it’s worth the splurge! 

Where to buy: Illamasqua Powder Blushers, £21.50 from www.illamasqua.com.

Benefit Hoola

Well isn't my beloved and much used Hoola looking a bit worse for wear! Benefits 'Hoola' is another completely matte bronzer, which is more of a true brown tone compared with Disobey, which is slightly lighter.  This bronzer still looks really natural on the skin and just gives an overall beautiful sun kissed look. When used for contouring, it creates a slightly darker look, but still gives a lovely effect. This is my go-to bronzer when I'm wearing a slightly heavier, evening look!  The application is easy, just like Disobey it’s pigmented yet still finely milled so looks flawless when applied correctly.  In terms of packaging, it comes in the typical Benefit box; it may not be the sturdiest of packaging (as you can see!), but its cute, right? 

Verdict: It has been the UK's No.1 Bronzer for the past 5 years because it’s suits a wide range of skin tones, so if you haven't already, I’d definitely recommend you give it a go! 

  

Where to buy: Benefit 'Hoola' retails for £23.50 from Benefit Stores, Counters and various Websites.  

Sleek Contour Kit in Light

Sleek are quickly becoming one of my favourite high street beauty brands as their products are completely affordable, and the quality of these are just as good as any 'high end' products. The Contour kit comes in three different shades Light, Medium and Dark. I use the light shade.  The packaging is simple, matte black and just the right size.  My favourite part of the packaging is actually the really handy mirror on the inside; this is perfect to throw in your handbag for any touch-ups on the go!  The two shades included are a matte brown for bronzing and contouring and an iridescent, champagne colour for highlighting. Both colours have great colour pay-off and blend out really nicely.  I would definitely compare the bronzer in this kit to ‘Hoola’ by Benefit; the little added bonus of a highlighter just adds a little something extra to this product too!  

Verdict: The Sleek Contour Kit is a lovely product that compares well with more expensive versions, so a complete bargain. If you're looking for a great contour kit that's affordable, this product is for you.

Where to buy: The Sleek Contour Kit retails for £6.49 from the Sleek Website, Boots and Superdrug. 

Have you tried any of these bronzers? Are there any bronzers you recommend?  Lots of love, Hayley x