It’s never too late to embrace bronzer. But as our skin matures, the rules of the glow game change. With expert advice and the right formulas, bronzer can become your most flattering beauty ally. I’ll admit it: I’ve long been a bronzer sceptic. My fair skin doesn’t tan deeply, and bronzing powders have historically made me look more “mud-swept” than sun-kissed. For years, I chose blush over bronzer every time — it just felt more natural, more flattering, more me. But on a recent morning, during a session with Bobbi Brown’s senior make-up artist Zara Findlay, I was challenged to rethink everything. According to Findlay, the problem isn’t bronzer itself — it’s that most people simply wear the wrong shade. And at 51, I decided it was time to reapproach this misunderstood staple.
The bronzers that changed my mind
Testing bronzers again, I discovered a new generation of feather-light, flattering formulas that blend beautifully and look natural on mature skin. Dior’s Forever Natural Bronze in Light Matte, for instance, impressed me with its weightless texture and elegant case — though at £48, it’s an investment. Still, Charlotte Tilbury’s Airbrush Bronzer (also in Fair) offered an even more seamless finish at a similar price point, and its soft, silky formula has become a favourite.
Findlay’s golden rule? Choose a shade just one tone warmer than your skin — and always tap off excess product before applying. This simple adjustment makes a world of difference, especially on older skin that’s lost some of its natural dewiness.
For those with drier complexions, cream and liquid bronzers can be even better. I found Rare Beauty and Merit’s bronzing sticks delightfully easy to use — as soft as butter and impossible to overdo. Charlotte Tilbury’s Hollywood Contour Wand, though technically not a contour, works wonders as a warm bronzer on dry skin. It’s subtle, silky and perfect for enhancing cheekbones without heaviness.
How to apply bronzer without ageing your face
Technique matters more than ever in your 50s. I struggled at first with liquid wands — until I experimented with different methods. My go-to now? One small dot on each cheekbone, about two inches from the temple, then blending with a stippling brush. I’ll add another dot if needed, but often that’s enough. Max Factor even offers a great alternative to the Tilbury wand for under £10 — proof you don’t need to overspend to look radiant.
I used to avoid contouring entirely, and for the most part, I still do. The old-school contour method — three shades, endless blending, and a wing and a prayer — rarely translated well in real life. For most of us, it was either too much effort or too much product. But modern bronzers provide a more forgiving and natural alternative: gentle warmth and subtle sculpting without harsh lines.
Findlay also gave me a tip that changed everything: skip the jawline contour and instead dust bronzing powder down your neck to even out the tone. It’s faster, softer, and more forgiving. Or, use a tinted SPF like Ultra Violette’s Daydream Screen for a light, cohesive glow. It’s available in 15 flattering shades and feels like a skincare treat.
Beyond cheekbones: Smarter bronzing tricks
Bronzer isn’t just for the cheeks and forehead — and using it creatively can add subtle dimension without looking overdone. For instance, dusting a bit of bronzer on the upper eyelids adds definition without the sparkle overload of most eyeshadows. It’s elegant, simple, and flattering on mature skin.
And of course, bronzer and blush don’t need to be an either/or decision. In fact, using both together can be more flattering than either alone. Findlay applied Bobbi Brown Bronzing Powder in Light across my temples, nose, cheeks, and neck, then added a bubblegum-pink blush on the high points of my cheekbones. The result? A youthful, sculpted glow — soft brown and pink proving to be the perfect duo even in your 50s.
Finding your bronzer soulmate
The key takeaway? Bronzer wasn’t the enemy. I just needed to find my bronzer — one that suited my fair skin, my texture preferences, and my lifestyle.
One standout for me was the RMS ReDimension Hydra Bronzer, a gel-to-powder hybrid that melts into skin with zero cakiness. Its golden undertones bounce light naturally, creating a healthy, luminous effect rather than an obvious shimmer. I use the shade Malibu Muse, recommended by RMS founder Rose-Marie Swift herself, and I’ve never looked back. This one goes everywhere: jawline, cheekbones, lids, forehead — wherever the sun might land. I’ll even go so far as to say this: If I had to choose between bronzer and mascara in summer, I’d choose bronzer. It does more for my face, and with a dab of blush up top, I’m out the door.
Late to the bronzer party — but here to stay
At 51, I’ve finally made peace with bronzer — not as a contouring tool, but as a soft sculptor of warmth and light. I’ve discovered textures that flatter rather than flatten, tones that enhance rather than age, and application tips that make all the difference.
If you’ve written bronzer off in the past, it might be time for a second look. The formulas are better. The techniques are easier. And the glow? It’s real. So yes — I’ve come late to the bronzer party. But now that I’m here, I’m dancing.
