Yes, Dark Skin Tones Can Wear Bronzer—These Shades Are Proof

Praise hands: It's the official start of summer. So you know what that means: It's glow time. Let's clear something up first—there's a big misconception that bronzers aren't made for women with dark skin tones. This is because old-school bronzers from way back in the day would often look oddly orange or chalky on deep complexions. At the time, those bronzers were solely made for tanning purposes on lighter skin tones. Brown girls deserve a beachy glow, too.

Fortunately, that's not the case anymore thanks to innovative formulas that add warmth and definition to dark skin tones. There's also another thing we need to address: Bronzers and highlighters are not one in the same. Instead of the super-pigmented shimmer most highlighters have, bronzers gorgeously warm up the skin with a subtle radiance you can build upon. Whether it's a powder, cream, or velvety texture, there are hardworking bronzers out there that'll impart a striking sun-kissed glow on every shade of brown.

Meet my favorite bronzer of all time. This gem from Guerlain is a cult product among celeb makeup artists because it will contour, sculpt, and bronze up your skin at the same time for an all-around sun-kissed glow. I use it every day. 

This finely milled, gel-based texture allows you to dust this onto your skin for a lit-from-within glow. This caramel tone looks especially gorgeous against dark skin tones. Your skin will look warm and radiant without the residue that's often left behind from heavy powder formulas.

No lie: Nearly every celeb makeup artist who specializes in dark skin tones has sung this product's praises to me. I'm convinced there's no other illuminating bronzer on the market like this Danessa Myricks one. You can highlight your skin however you see fit with this light-reflecting liquid formula.

You can warm up your skin with these illuminating, gold tones. Plus, the darkest shade to the left is perfect for a subtly contoured jawline if you sweep it on with an angled brush. 

If you're a fan of velvety formulas, this bronzing powder will deliver a healthy-looking glow on dark skin tones. It feels weightless and is full of sheer pigments that won't leave an ashy cast on your skin. 

Iman has created products with women of color in mind since its inception. Sweep this bronzer all over to enhance the warmth of your skin. Or build it up on the high points of your face for a more noticeable glow.

Becca is a brown girl's dream. In fact, the brand is at the top of the running with the largest shade range of highlighters out right now. This extension of its cult Shimmering Skin Perfector will give your skin a showstopping glow. Its creamy formula allows you to amp it up to your liking.

Rose-Marie Swift, the founder of RMS Beauty, created this bronzer specially for dark skin tones. You can trust that it's made with all-natural ingredients and it'll glide right on like second skin. It imparts a starry glow that'll also deliver definition for contouring purposes. 

Customize your glow-up with a combination of matte and shimmery textures in this palette. Whether you want to sculpt, highlight, or shade, these multitasking hues beautifully complement deep complexions.

Calling all my brown beauties with red and brown undertones: You'll look like you just stepped off the beach with this bronzer. Apply it all over to enhance overall radiance or pile it up for a summery glow.

Oftentimes, bronzers double as highlighters, which is the case for this champagne shade. If you like a little extra, swirl this sparkly texture on your skin and watch the luminous glow go up a notch.

For just $4, opt for a rich radiance from this Rimmel classic. If you truly want to look sunlit, layer it up on your cheekbones. 

You might not be on vacation, but that doesn't mean you can't have gorgeously tanned skin. There's a reason this bronzer duo is loved by makeup artists and editors everywhere. It warms up your skin just enough for a freshly sculpted effect.

For that subtle "I've been laying out all day" glow, this gem should be your go-to. It's made of finely milled reflective pearls that are great for naturally enhancing your skin's luminosity.

We get that the price tag is a little discouraging, but your skin deserves to beam to the heavens above. The bottom shade is a gorgeous golden hue that pairs nicely with dark skin tones. Plus, you can make it pop with the above pearlescent hue for a multidimensional radiance.

I've added to your coveted list of bronzers enough. Now go ahead and get your glow on.