Navigating the differences between bronzer and powder

Most women know that their beauty products are designed to work together, not work in place of one another. Of course, there are exceptions to every rule, but plenty of ladies get tripped up on bronzer once summertime rolls around.

While it's perfectly acceptable (and even eye-opening) to substitute lipstick for shadow, shadow for lip stain and all kinds of liners, it's not always the best idea to use your bronzer the same way you would a powder compact. Just because they look the same doesn't mean they serve the same purpose, after all.

When applied uniformly to the entire face, bronzer can look overdone, blotchy and obviously artificial. Instead, treat it the way you'd treat a blush - by dabbing it on to accent your features after the rest of your makeup has already set.

For a fool-proof bronzer application, dab it on lightly across your cheekbones, browbones, nose, forehead and temples. Use the areas the sun normally hits on your face as a guide for a flawless, natural-looking glow every time.