Bronzers: Clinique Vs. Lancome

Summer is just around the corner and everyone wants that sun-kissed glow on their face. However, if you don't tan as quickly as you would like, or if you don't have the time, then a great facial bronzer is what you need. I have found that when it comes to cosmetics there are certain products that you can skimp on and others that you need to splurge on. Bronzer is a product that is worth spending the department store prices for.

A huge advantage to buying department store brands such as Clinique and Lancôme is that you can leave assured you have left the store with the right shade for you. The salespeople are always very nice and will assist you in finding the right shade for you by applying them to your face. This is a big advantage over the guessing game over which shade to choose at the drug store.

Another plus is that if you buy a bronzer from Clinique or Lancôme during a free gift promotion you not only get your bronzer but usually mascara, lipstick, eye shadow, and moisturizer or eye make up remover. These promotions are usually offered every season, so take advantage and get more for your money.

So which department store quality product should you choose? The following is an evaluation of the bronzers produced by Clinique and Lancôme.

I have been a fan of both brands for many years. I tend to stick with department store cosmetics because I tend to be prone to break outs and both brands are kind to my skin.

Clinique's bronzer is offered in a loose powder that comes in a jar. Loose powder by its very nature presents two problems. One, when applying a loose powder to your face, it can cake up easily. When applying you must pay close attention to the amount of powder that is getting on your brush with each swipe into the jar. In order to avoid caking you have to make sure that only a small amount of powder is on your brush. This process can be time consuming. Two, loose powder is very messy. When using a loose powder such as Clinique's bronzer you should allow time for clean up as your counter or make up table will be covered in a fine dust. However, an advantage that Clinique's loose powder bronzer has over their competitor is that it gives the wearer a very made up look, which is what some women prefer.

Lancome offers their bronzer in a pressed powder that comes in a compact. The packaging in itself is a plus over the Clinique product because it is portable. You could try, but toting a jar of loose powder can present several problems. Compared to Clinique, Lancôme pressed powder bronzer looks more natural as the pressed powder blends easier. You can also more easily control the desired amount of powder you want on your brush with the Lancôme product. Also, the pressed powder causes little to no need for extra clean up.

The Verdict

It comes down to the desired finished look and the time you invest in your make up routine. If you like the world to know that you took the time to put on make up, then Clinique's loose powder bronzer is for you. This product is also the better choice for an event or special occasion.

If the heat of the summer has you yearning for a lighter, more natural look, then the Lancôme pressed powder bronzer is the better buy. It provides a sun kissed look that could easily be mistaken for the result of a few hours in the sun. It is also the better choice for everyday use for someone who doesn't wear alot of make up in general.