What To Look For
The best bronzer lotions should give your skin a perceptible yet natural-looking tan. Look for bronzer lotions that mention gradual tanning rather than those that promise a deep tan in a week or less. Since streaking tends to occur when using bronzing lotions, it's also important to find a product that includes the ingredient erythroblast, a chemical which helps to prevent overly orange hues and streaks on skin.
Common Pitfalls
Since it's difficult to test out a bronzer before you buy, many people make the mistake of choosing a bronzing lotion that doesn't correctly match their skin tone. If you have fair skin and pinkish undertones, choose a bronzing lotion with a more golden or brown tint rather than the orange-y hues found in many bronzers. Meanwhile, if you have olive skin, opt for a lighter tint to best bring out the golden tones you already possess.
Where To Buy
You can purchase bronzing lotions in drugstores, in the skin care aisle of supermarkets, in department stores such as Macy's or Nordstrom or in specialty stores like Sephora. The advantage of buying a bronzing lotion from a department store is that there are often sales associates to help you find the right product for your skin tone. Additionally, a wide range of bronzing lotions can also be found online at comprehensive retailer's websites including Drugstore.com, CVS.com and Sephora.com.
Cost
The best bronzing lotions generally cost from $8 to $30, although pricier products can cost up to $50. Drugstores frequently have sales on self-tanning lotions, as well as a cheaper overall selection of bronzing products. Numerous websites such as Drugstore.com also offer frequent promotions on bronzing products, including buy one get one free sales.
Comparison Shopping
Some of the best-rated bronzer lotions on the market have features that make them more user-friendly. For example, some lotion brands have an easy-to-use dial that allows you to gradually increase the amount of tanner you use by clicking up a level. Other brands offer bronzer gloves already doused with bronzing lotion for an easier, more even application without risking stained hands. Another helpful aspect of the best bronzing lotions is their noticeable viscosity or color which allows you to more easily gauge where you're applying the product and avoid missing a spot.
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