On trial - Bronzers

It’s nearly July and not all of us have sunny exotic holidays on the horizon (sob), but we say it doesn’t matter as there is loads to enjoy right here in he UK. Just think of all those blissful weekends away, beaches, festivals and Sunday afternoon BBQs – although that doesn’t solve one problem – the tan! Yep, the chances of Caribbean sunshine are often slim in the UK and there is nothing like the feeling of being a bronzed goddess while sipping on a spritzer. So, fear not, we tested the best in face bronzers to leave you looking glowing and sexy for the coming summer months…

By Beauty Assistant Katie Corcoran

Darphin Bronzing Powder

Wow, what cute packaging! This gold compact is one you won't be ashamed to get out in front of the girls. It comes with a small powder puff which you might think would make it hard to apply (you can of course use a brush) but it goes on really well. Patting it onto cheeks lets you apply it without getting that long sweeping tan line that sometimes comes with bronzer and brush. It had a very lightly shimmer and does a great natural job of giving a hint of bronze. Marks all round for the beautiful packaging also...

£20, darphin.co.uk

Laura Mercier Bronzing Duo - Coral

This is a two-tone bronzer with brown tan and also a coral pink. One sweep is plenty for a good application so it will last well and you get a nice bronzing effect with the added bonus of a hint of rosy pink to give you a pretty flushed look. Its pretty, girly and not too heavy - but use it sparingly, one application is enough for both cheeks. You don't want to create a look that's too heavy with the pink...

£25, nationwide

Givenchy Primmissime Mat & Glow N72

This is a super light bronzer and would be ideal if you already have a tan and just want to top it up a bit, or perhaps you have very fair skin and don't want to look overly orange. The shimmer inside is also very pretty and not over the top. The brush supplied is great quality and you can use this to really build up a gradual glow or go for several brushes to give you a more shimmery, darker look. Recommended for a shimmery sun kissed look - it's a holiday beauty bag must, and a great handbag size too!

£30.50, 01932 233824

Rimmel Sun Shimmer Duo Bronzer

This is a matt bronzer that is great on the skin as it almost acted as a powder but with added colour. It's very light so several sweeps of the bronzer will allow you to build up how heavy you want the colour. Will be great on tanned skin also as it will leave your skin looking matt and also accentuate the colour you already have. You're in control with this one, and you can use it here in the UK for a subtle glow without the sun bathing, on holiday for nights out and when you get home to keep up the tan you have worked so hard to get - plus it has a great price point!

£5.99, rimmellondon.com

The Body Shop Brush on Bronze

We did at first think that these bronzing balls would be too heavy and dark but were pleasantly surprised to find that it gives me a really nice natural tan all over the face. The brush didn't seem to pick up to much of the powder in one go, which is good for bronzing balls, so you can really build up the colour as you go along rather than being left with orange cheeks! It's another high street hottie from this trusted brand...

£12.00, thebodyshop.co.uk