For years I used to expose my face to the sun just like I would the rest of my body and let’s just say those weren’t my brightest days (though I was very tanned.) So now as I layer my face with SPF 50 you can imagine how fair it looks compared to the rest of my body post-beach. That’s why I’m always up for discovering new bronzers which can give me a sun-kissed glow without the risk of premature wrinkles.

MAKE UP FOR EVER’s new Pro Bronze Fusion has done the trick this summer and here are a couple of reasons why it worked for me.

The Formula: First, it’s waterproof. That’s right, no melting, no streaking and creasing in the heat. Next, it’s super lightweight, to the point where I’m like wait a sec.. Am I even getting any product out? But that’s where the Kabuki Brush comes in (read below)

It’s also a gel powder bronzer, this means that it won’t leave your skin looking cakey, but rather blends in super smoothly, giving you a luminous healthy glow. It’s not as pigmented as a say a Guerlain or MAC bronzer if strong color-release is what you’re after, but I personally hate to see the obvious marks of bronzer application, so the second skin-like feel to it is a plus for me. However, this will not work if you’re looking to Insta-style contour and highlight so obviously.

The Finish: Although you would expect it to be shimmery, it only has very subtle hints, it’s more natural and matte, which I prefer, though I coupled it with some Armani Fluid Sheer highlighter for this look.

Color Release: It’s true if you don’t use the Make Up For Ever 136 Pro Bronze Kabuki Brush to apply it, you may feel like the you’re getting minimal product out so I totally recommend you give this dense and stout brush a go. My preferred technique is to first apply as you would usually (with medium pressure) and then blend backwards in a circular motion.