10 Best Bronzers from the Drugstore

While some people are genetically blessed with naturally radiant skin, most of us need a little help to fake a sun-kissed glow all year long. That’s where bronzer comes in! The best drugstore bronzers add warmth and dimension to the face without the need for expensive brands or spending hours in the sun. 

Plus, there are so many affordable options at the drugstore that perform just as well as high-end bronzers!

After testing countless formulas, I’ve narrowed it down to 10 of the best bronzers from the drugstore. Whether you love a matte bronzer, a glowy skin finish, or an easy-to-use cream bronzer, there’s something here for everyone.

Let’s get to the best drugstore bronzers for healthy sun kissed skin! We’ve got a lot of great products to cover!

How to Apply Bronzer Like a Pro

Applying bronzer the right way makes all the difference in getting that natural, sun-kissed glow. Whether you prefer powder, cream, or liquid, the key is blending and building up the color gradually.

For powder bronzer, use a fluffy brush and lightly sweep it across your forehead, cheekbones, and jawline in a soft “3” shape. Always tap off excess product to avoid harsh lines, and blend well for a seamless finish. Powder bronzers are a great option for oily skin since they help control shine and last all day.

Cream bronzers melt into the skin beautifully and give the most natural warmth. Use a dense brush or damp sponge to apply, blending in circular motions along the forehead, cheeks, and jawline. If you want it to last longer, set it with a light dusting of loose powder.

Liquid bronzers can seem tricky, but they’re super versatile. Apply a little bit to the back of your hand first, then use a brush or sponge to blend it onto your skin. You can also mix a few drops into your favorite foundation for an effortless healthy glow.

Best Drugstore Bronzers

As a beauty writer, I’ve tried so many bronzers, and these are my top picks. Whether you prefer cream formulas, powder formulations, or a balm-like formula, these are the best of the best!

Best All-Around Drugstore Bronzer: L’Oreal Infallible Freshwear Bronzer

This bronzer is a huge fan favorite, and for good reason! It has a matte formula with a balm-like formula that blends like a dream. 

Available in 7 inclusive shades, it works on fair skin to deeper skin tones. If you want a good bronzer that looks natural and lasts a long time, this is a great option!

Best Natural Drugstore Bronzer: Physicians Formula Murumuru Butter Bronzer

I’ve been a huge fan of this favorite bronzer for years! It has a satin finish that gives the skin a healthy glow without looking shimmery. 

It blends effortlessly, smells like a tropical vacation, and works beautifully on all skin types. Physicians Formula nailed it with this one!

Best Drugstore Bronzer for Fair Skin: Milani Silky Matte Bronzing Powder

Finding the right shade of bronzer for fair skin can be tricky, but Milani’s Silky Matte Bronzer in Sun Kissed is a good choice! It has a cool undertone, making it perfect for those with fair skin. 

The powder formulation is super smooth, blends beautifully, and never looks patchy.

Best Drugstore Bronzer Under $5: Wet ‘n Wild Color Icon Bronzer

A good drugstore bronzer that’s under $5? Yes, please! Wet n Wild nailed it with this one. 

It has a slight sheen for a radiant finish and blends like a dream. If you’re looking for an affordable option that delivers great coverage, this is it!

Best Glowy Drugstore Bronzer: Milani Baked Bronzer

This baked bronzer is perfect for those who want to add warm undertones and glowy skin in one step. 

The powder is finely milled, so it never emphasizes fine lines or dry patches. It’s a great option for those who want a more radiant finish without looking overly shimmery.

I personally like to use this with a big fluffy brush and apply it all over the face, neck, and chest. It is a great product to warm up the skin.

Best Satin Finish Bronzer: NYX Buttermelt Bronzer

This bronzer has a matte formula with a subtle sheen, giving the skin a natural and healthy glow. 

With 8 inclusive shade ranges, it works for fair skin to deeper skin tones. It’s highly pigmented, so use a fluffy brush and a light hand!

Best Drugstore Cream Bronzer Stick: Physicians Formula Butter Glow & Go Multiuse Stick

This cream bronzer is so easy to use, and there’s a bonus gorgeous blush on the other end! The balm-like formula melts into the skin, making blending effortless. It’s a great product for travel and multi-use purposes, like eyes and lips!

If you want a good bronzer for quick application, this is a great choice!

Best Drugstore Cream Bronzer: Milani Cheek Kiss Cream Bronzer

I love a cream formula that’s forgiving and easy to blend, and this one from Milani is a dream. It gives a natural, skin-like finish and works on all skin types. It’s great coverage without feeling heavy!

Best Drugstore Liquid Bronzer: e.l.f. Camo Liquid Bronzer & Contour

If cream bronzers aren’t your thing, try this liquid formula! It blends seamlessly for a more dramatic effect or can be sheered out for a natural look. 

Pro tip: Apply to the back of your hand, then use a brush for the best way to get an even application.

Best Drugstore Bronzing Drops: Physicians Formula Butter Glow Bronzing Serum

This is a rare find! These bronzing drops are so versatile—you can mix them into your favorite foundation for an extra boost or apply them directly to the skin for a healthy glow. The vitamin E in the formula keeps skin hydrated which I love!

There you have it—the best bronzers from the drugstore! Whether you prefer cream bronzers, powder formulation, or liquid bronzers, there’s a good choice here for everyone.

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Have a favorite bronzer I didn’t include? Let me know in the comments!