A Brown Girl’s Guide to Blush and Bronzer

Nail the perfect glow this summer

Diversity has been at the tip of the beauty industry’s tongue over the last few years. And whether or not brands are turning their eye to melanin-rich complexions just to increase their profit margins, or to truly champion inclusivity, one thing is for sure, the struggle for brown and black girls to find the right products for their skintones is apparently about to vanish.

But before we can hold our hands in a circle of rejoice, the industry still has a few kinks to work out.

We’ve seen the likes of Fenty and Huda Beauty drop foundations in over 40 shades. Finding the right concealers or the perfect nude lipstick has also become a lot less difficult. But when it comes to bronzers and blushers, the process of picking up the right product is still not as simple as picking one up at the makeup counter.

Blush and bronzer are often a subject of mystery to those of us with dark complexions. Picking the right tone of bronzer is no easy task. And as for blushers, I’ve almost always thought it to be exclusive to those with fair skin tones—which as it turns out, is far from the truth.

Whilst the options are still pretty minimal, there’s still enough out there to get your summer makeup game just right, and we’ve rounded them up for you.

Blush

Ilia Multi Stick, A Fine RomanceDesigned with varying skin tones in mind, you’re sure to find the right hue for your complexion. Opt for the shade ‘A Fine Romance’ to warm up your look. Plus, with its buttery formula, it’s super easy to blend.
iliabeauty.com

Bobbi Brown Blush, Desert Pink

Don’t let the bright pink hue scare you off. If your skin is more cool-toned, this is what you need on your makeup counter.

Make up Forever Second Skin Cream Blush, BerryFor those with deep skin tones, this shade of blush is the perfect hue to warm up your look.
makeupforever.com

Bronzers

Fenty Beauty, Coco Naughty

Rihanna kept us all in mind when creating her products, and this one doesn’t disappoint. It’s a medium-dark brown with warm undertones, suitable for brown skin.
sephora.com

Nars Laguna & Casino Bronzer Duo, Sin/Casino

Hit two birds with one stone with this one.
sephora.com

Guerlain Terracotta Bronzing Powder, Deep Golden

Terracotta shades, with their red undertones are ideal for warming up dark complexions—opt for this one by Guerlain for a natural finish.
sephora.com

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