Summer is the season of bronzer, but while it’s easy to treat it like blush—that is, to brush it along our cheekbones and call it a day—this product can be used in a number of ways to make sure that you really get your money’s worth… even after Summer ends!

1. Bronzer as self-tanner: This tip, surprisingly, came from my brother. Scraping off a bit of shimmery bronzer—NARS Bronzing Powder in Laguna ($34) is a classic—-thoroughly mix it with a handful of body lotion. Then slather the mixture onto your limbs for a natural glow.

2. Bronzer as contouring powder: A shimmer-less bronzer like Hoola by Benefit Cosmetics ($36) can double as a contouring powder. Use an angled contour brush and go to town on the hollows of your cheeks to define cheekbones, or use a little around your nose to give the area a more delicate, smaller illusion.

3. Bronzer as eye shadow: I am a huge fan of cream cosmetics because of their staying power and how simple they are to use. A cream bronzer like Vapour Organic Beauty Solar Translucent Bronzer ($34) can be used as a subtle, lightweight eye shadow that will stay put. Be sure to warm up the product on the back of hand first. That way, it’ll be easier to apply.

4. Bronzer as powder: This one only applies to the naturally bronzy or thoroughly tanned. A trip to Istanbul, time spent up North and generally existing through this sunny summer has gotten me to point where my go-to bronzer, MAC Mineralize Skinfinish ($29), is close enough to my skin tone that I can use it as an illuminating, sheer powder foundation when skin is looking less than perfect. Make sure your bronzer isn’t too dark before you try this at home.

By: Allyssia Alleyne, Toronto

You should follow me on Twitter @AllyssiaAlleyne.

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