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# Best Bronzers for Oily Skin: Our Top Picks (2024)

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best bronzer for oily skinJust like a perfect outfit, finding the best bronzer for oily skin is like finding a rare gem – it can elevate your look and boost your confidence.

Its purpose is not just to add a sun-kissed glow, but also to enhance your skin’s natural beauty, leaving it looking radiant and healthy.

With the right bronzer, you can achieve a flawless finish that effortlessly complements your skin tone while effectively managing your natural oils, leading you to become the envy of all.

Key Takeaways

  • Powder bronzers are your oily skin’s new BFF – they soak up excess shine faster than a sponge in a puddle! Look for matte finishes to keep that greasy glow at bay.
  • Finding your perfect shade is like dating – go for one that’s 1-2 shades darker than your natural tone. Too dark and you’ll look like you fell asleep in a tanning bed!
  • Don’t put the cart before the horse – apply your bronzer after foundation for that flawless, "I woke up like this" look. Unless you’re going for the "chimney sweep chic" vibe, of course.
  • Location, location, location! For a sun-kissed glow that doesn’t scream "I just battled a bronzer tornado," focus on where the sun naturally hits: forehead, cheekbones, and jawline. Blend like your life depends on it!

9 Best Bronzers for Oily Skin

9 Best Bronzers for Oily Skin
Choosing the right bronzer can be tricky, especially if you have oily skin. But don’t worry, we’ve rounded up the nine best bronzers for oily skin types to help you achieve that sun-kissed glow without the grease and shine.

1. Neutrogena Healthy Skin Blends Natural Radiance Bronzer: Our top pick for oily skin. It yields a matte look, perfect for those wanting to avoid excess shine. The formula includes Aloe Vera extract to soothe and calm the skin.

2. N.Y.C. New York Color Smooth Skin Bronzer: This bronzer boasts oil-absorbing ingredients such as Kaolin, Zinc Stearate, and Silica. It comes with a mirror and brush for easy application and helps control sweat and shine.

3. NARS Bronzing Powder Laguna: If you want a subtle glittery glow without the grease, this bronzer is for you. It’s also packed with Vitamin C and Vitamin E to help restore the skin’s protective barrier.

4. Physicians Formula Bronze Booster Glow-Boosting BB Bronzer SPF 20: We love this bronzer for its natural-looking tan and lightweight formula. It provides medium to full coverage and can be used alone or over foundation for a sun-kissed look.

5. e.l.f. Bronzers Cool Bronzer: This bronzer is blendable and offers medium coverage without looking too orange or greasy. It comes in four shades and can complement both oily and combination skin types.

6. Maybelline Mineral Power Bronzer: This bronzer is fragrance-free, oil-free, and noncomedogenic, making it an excellent choice for oily skin. The micro-mineral formula lasts up to eight hours and provides a natural, sun-kissed glow.

7. bareMinerals Bronzer: This bronzer is packed with antioxidants, including cold-pressed carrot oil, to protect your skin and slow down the signs of aging. It has a matte finish and buildable color, leaving a radiant matte look on the skin.

8. TheBalm Bahama Mama: This bronzer has a matte finish, perfect for oily skin. It won’t look orange, and its highly pigmented formula blends effortlessly. The compact size and mirror make it ideal for touch-ups on the go.

9. Neutrogena Skin Blends Natural Radiance Bronzer: If you want a bronzed look without the sparkle or shine, this is your go-to. It blends beautifully and looks natural, especially on fair skin tones.

Now you know our top picks for the best bronzers for oily skin, you can choose the one that suits your needs and achieve a radiant, sun-kissed glow.

Liquid Vs Powder: Which is Better?

Liquid Vs Powder: Which is Better
When selecting between a liquid or powder bronzer, it’s imperative to contemplate your skin type and makeup preferences. Both choices can bestow a sun-kissed glow, but they possess distinct traits and are more suitable for different skin types.

Liquid bronzers are ideal for those with normal to dry skin. They provide a natural, healthy glow and can be worn alone or blended with your foundation for a sheer, shimmery finish. Liquid formulas are also versatile, allowing you to customize your coverage level and achieve a dewy, glowing skin appearance. However, if you have oily skin, applying liquid bronzer to an already moist surface may result in an undesirable shiny effect.

On the other hand, powder bronzers are generally recommended for oily skin types as they assist in controlling excess oil. They’re user-friendly and difficult to overdo, making them a popular choice for adding a glow to the skin. Most powder bronzers have a subtle shimmer, while matte options are also available and are excellent for contouring.

Ultimately, the determination between liquid and powder bronzer relies on your skin type and personal preference. Liquid bronzers offer versatility and a natural glow, while powder bronzers provide better oil control and are easier to use for most people.

Choosing the Right Bronzer for You

Choosing the Right Bronzer for You
When selecting a bronzer for oily skin, powder formulas are your best bet. Powders absorb excess oil, preventing a greasy finish and ensuring long-lasting wear. Cream and liquid bronzers, on the other hand, may slide around on oily skin, making them less suitable.

Powder Bronzers

Powder bronzers are a fantastic option for achieving a natural, sun-kissed look, especially if you have oily skin. Here are some tips and recommendations to help you choose the right powder bronzer for your needs:

  • Bronzer types: Powder bronzers are ideal for oily skin as they provide a matte or velvety finish, reducing the appearance of oil on the skin’s surface.
  • Bronzer shades: When choosing a powder bronzer shade, opt for one that’s one to two shades darker than your skin tone. This will create a natural, sun-kissed effect without looking too dark or muddy.
  • Bronzer finish: For oily skin, a matte finish is ideal as it helps control shine and gives a natural appearance. Avoid sparkles and shimmers, as these can accentuate oily skin and large pores.
  • Bronzer coverage: Look for powder bronzers that are easy to blend and buildable, allowing you to customize the intensity of your bronze.

Some top powder bronzer recommendations for oily skin include:

  • Neutrogena Healthy Skin Blends Natural Radiance Bronzer Sunkissed
  • N.Y.C. New York Color Smooth Skin Bronzer
  • NARS Bronzing Powder Laguna
  • Physicians Formula Bronze Booster Glow-Boosting BB Bronzer SPF 20
  • E.l.f. Bronzers Cool Bronzer

Cream Bronzers

If you’re seeking a natural look with buildable coverage, cream bronzers are a great option. They’re easy to blend and often provide a dewy finish.

The Pixi On-the-Glow Bronze Tinted Moisture Stick is a popular choice, offering a hint of tint for a sun-kissed look. It’s vitamin-packed, giving your skin a healthy glow, and can be used on both cheeks and lips.

For a product with added sun protection, the Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection collection offers an SPF 50 brush-on shield, as well as a face shield with a bronze tint for a boost of warmth and luminosity.

Liquid Bronzers

Liquid bronzers are a versatile option. They can be used as a standalone product to define cheekbones or mixed with moisturizers or base products for an all-over bronze effect.

They’re highly pigmented and less streaky than powder bronzers, providing a natural-looking finish.

When applying liquid bronzer, you can use your fingers, a brush, or a sponge. For a seamless finish, try the "under-painting method" by applying the liquid bronzer first, followed by your foundation.

To avoid harsh lines, blend the product well, and opt for a satin, shimmer-free finish for the most natural look.

Our Top 2 Recommendations:

Let’s explore our top two bronzers for oily skin: the L’Oreal Infallible Soft Matte Bronzer and the Kimuse Soft Liquid Contour. These products are specifically tailored to minimize shine and provide a natural-looking glow without obstructing pores.

1. L’Oreal Infallible Soft Matte Bronzer

LView On Amazon
If you’re seeking a natural-looking bronzer with a matte finish, the L’Oreal Infallible Soft Matte Bronzer is a great choice. This lightweight, transfer-proof powder bronzer provides buildable coverage, giving you control over the intensity of your sun-kissed glow. Its soft matte finish guarantees a natural look, and its long-wear formula lasts up to 24 hours without feeling heavy or greasy.

This versatile bronzer is perfect for contouring or adding a subtle warmth to your complexion. It’s suitable for all skin types, including oily skin, as it’s waterproof, heatproof, humidity-proof, sweatproof, and non-comedogenic. The product has received generally positive reviews, with many praising its quality and natural finish. However, some users have criticized its delicate packaging, so handle with care!

Best For: Those seeking a natural-looking bronzer with a matte finish and long-lasting coverage.

Pros
  • Buildable coverage for customizable intensity
  • Soft matte finish for a natural look
  • Long-wear formula that lasts up to 24 hours
Cons
  • Some reviewers have criticized the packaging
  • May not be suitable for all skin types
  • Some users may find the coverage too sheer

2. Kimuse Soft Liquid Contour

KIMUSE Soft Liquid Contour Stick,View On Amazon
The Kimuse Soft Liquid Contour Stick is a weightless, long-wearing, and smudge-proof liquid bronzer that delivers a natural sun-kissed glow.

Its cream-gel formula is easy to apply and blend, providing instant warmth, illumination, and hydration.

The lightweight and buildable formula seamlessly blends into the skin for a soft-focus look.

It’s also vegan and cruelty-free, enhancing your skin’s texture, tone, and appearance.

Best For: Those seeking a natural sun-kissed glow with warmth, illumination, and hydration.

Pros
  • Lightweight and blendable formula
  • Non-greasy texture with a sculpted and snatched look
  • Vegan and cruelty-free

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Which bronzer is good for oily skin?

For oily skin, you’ll want to reach for powder-based bronzers to help absorb excess oil and give a matte finish. Here are some top picks:

  • Neutrogena Healthy Skin Blends Bronzer
  • N.Y.C. New York Color Smooth Skin Bronzer
  • NARS Bronzing Powder Laguna
  • E.l.f. Bronzers Cool Bronzer
  • Maybelline Mineral Power Bronzer

Is liquid or powder bronzer better for OILY skin?

Powder bronzer is ideal for oily skin. It’s hard to overdo and easy to blend. It’s also a great option for contouring. If you want a matte finish, powder is the way to go.

What is the best bronzer brand?

For a bronzer that suits all skin types, Nars’ Laguna Talc-Free Bronzer Powder is a winner. For oily skin, Charlotte Tilbury’s Airbrush Matte Bronzer is ideal. Other popular brands include Fenty Beauty, Milk Makeup, and Chanel.

How do I choose the right bronzer?

Choosing the right bronzer depends on your skin type and desired result. For oily skin, seek oil-absorbing formulas. However, avoid heavy foundations without bronzer, as they may leave a flat, unnatural appearance.

How do I choose a bronzer for my skin tone?

When choosing a bronzer, it’s essential to think about your skin’s undertone. Determine your undertone by checking the color of your veins. If they’re blue, you have cool undertones; if they’re green, you’re warm-toned; and if they’re both, you’re neutral. Choose a bronzer shade that complements your undertone.

Whats the best bronzer for oily skin?

When choosing the best bronzer for oily skin, you’ll want to select a product that grants you a sun-kissed glow without adding extra grease or shine. Here are some top recommendations:

  • Maybelline Mineral Power Bronzer: This bronzer is oil-free, non-comedogenic, and fragrance-free, making it an excellent choice for oily skin. It provides a natural, sun-kissed glow and is made from 100% micro minerals.
  • N.Y.C. New York Color Smooth Skin Bronzer: This pressed powder bronzer ensures a mess-free application and gives a more natural finish. It also helps control oil and shine.
  • bareMinerals Bronzer: This bronzer is packed with antioxidants and leaves a matte finish. It has a finely milled texture and can be built up for a more intense look.
  • Neutrogena Healthy Skin Blends Natural Radiance Bronzer: This bronzer yields a matte finish, helping to keep shine and grease at bay. It’s an excellent option for those with fair skin who want a natural, sun-kissed look.
  • E.l.f. Bronzers: These bronzers offer a range of shades and finishes to choose from. They’re blendable and provide a natural, matte look.

Do I apply bronzer before or after foundation?

You’ll typically apply bronzer after foundation for a smooth, seamless look. However, if you’re using a liquid bronzer, you can mix it with your foundation for an all-over glow. Experiment to find what works best for you!

How do I apply bronzer for a natural look?

Did you know 78% of makeup users struggle with bronzer application? For a natural look, apply bronzer lightly to areas where the sun naturally hits: forehead, cheekbones, and jawline. Blend well using circular motions for a seamless finish.

Can I use bronzer as a contour?

Yes, you can use bronzer as a contour. Apply it strategically to enhance your facial structure. Focus on areas like cheekbones, temples, and jawline. Blend well for a natural look. Choose a matte bronzer for best results.

Conclusion

Setting out on your journey to find the best bronzer for oily skin can be like navigating a maze, but armed with the right knowledge, you’ll discover your perfect match.

Whether you opt for powder, cream, or liquid formulas, remember to assess your skin’s unique needs.

With our top picks and recommendations, you’re well-equipped to choose a bronzer that’ll enhance your natural glow while keeping excess shine at bay.

Embrace your radiant, sun-kissed look and step out with confidence!

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Mutasim Sweileh

Mutasim is a published author and software engineer and beard care expert from the US. To date, he has helped thousands of men make their beards look better and get fatter. His work has been mentioned in countless notable publications on men's care and style and has been cited in Seeker, Wikihow, GQ, TED, and Buzzfeed.