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Though the world continues to harbor its fair share of, for lack of a better word, absolute craziness, I find solace in the fact that I at least have summer to look forward to. Seasonal depression is too real and when all else seems to be falling apart, something as simple as sitting under the sun can feel euphoric. Beyond that, knowing I can also pull out my summer makeup essentials (like matte bronzer) is a small, but important ritual worth celebrating.
For most of us, that includes anything with a hint of shimmer or glitter in it. But if the idea of looking in a mirror and resembling a disco ball gives you slight pause, you’re not alone. Personally, what motivates me to go the matte route is knowing that it will take one too many cotton pads and an entire bottle of Glossier Milky Oil to get rid of it all. And on the rare occasion that I don’t have the energy to go beyond a makeup wipe, there’s the inevitable glitter bomb that will soon take shape on my pillowcase. So in preparation for that first 80-degree day (come on, Mother Nature!), here are a handful of matte bronzers that’ll warm up your complexion…and maybe your mood too.
bareMinerals Endless Summer Bronzer
This brand new powder is mineral-based and available in two shades (“Warmth” and “Faux Tan”) to take you from dull to sun-kissed in a few swipes.
$29 at bareMinerals
Benefit Hoola Matte Bronzer
This is perhaps the most iconic and well-reviewed matte bronzer to ever exist, thanks to its ability to warm up fairer skin without looking like a bad fake tan.
$30 at Sephora
e.l.f. Bronzer
This powder with a cream-like texture is infused with vitamin E to to nourish the skin as it provides a natural-looking, sun-kissed glow.
$2 at e.l.f. Cosmetics
Fenty Beauty Sun Stalk’r Instant Warmth Bronzer
Rihanna’s latest summer drops include this creamy, transfer-resistant, and buildable formula, available in 8 versatile shades that literally took years to create.
$30 at Fenty Beauty
Huda Beauty Tantour Contour & Bronzer Cream
This cream-to-powder multitasker can be used to simply warm up the face or combined with a highlighter to contour for a more sculpted-looking cheekbone.
$30 at Sephora
Kevyn Aucoin The Neo Bronzer
The ombre effect of this new illuminator means you can use just one, depending on your mood, or blend them together for a truly custom glow.
$38 at Sephora
Milani Silky Matte Bronzing Powder
Ultra-smooth and ultra-matte, this affordable option can be brushed onto the cheekbones or all over to warm up the face.
$9.99 at Ulta
Milk Makeup Matte Bronzer
Also known as “summer in a stick,” this cream formula is infused with a handful of healthy ingredients for treating the skin as it also warms up your complexion.
$24 at Milk Makeup
NYX Matte Bronzer
Available in five shades, this bronzer promises to deliver a honey glow without the shimmer.
$9 at NYX Cosmetics
Tom Ford Soleil Glow Bronzer
This new luxe formula is infused with plant-derived butters so you can get a slight dewiness on top of warmth.
$112 at Sephora
Too Faced Chocolate Soleil Bronzing Powder
We’re so glad this cult favorite bronzer expanded to include a matte formula that smells as good as it looks.
$30 at Too Faced
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