5 body bronzers to try if you want to keep that summer glow without the self-tanner commitment

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Bronzer is a staple makeup product during the summer. Whether you love to look extra sun-kissed after a vacation or use it daily to contour your face, there’s no denying that everyone likes a little glow no matter the time of year.

Self-tanners are typically used to recreate that bronzy glow on the rest of your body. But if you don’t have time for a proper application, self-tanners can quickly become tricky and time-consuming. Luckily, for those that want to look like they just laid on a beach for a week without the commitment of a self-tanner, there’s body bronzer.

Body bronzers are typically cream or gel formulas that go on like liquid makeup but are transfer-resistant. They leave you looking glowy and tanned, but they wash away with soap and water, so you don’t have to deal with any streaks or dry patches. Plus, these formulas also have a blurring effect, leaving your skin looking almost airbrushed, as they cover up blemishes and have a light reflecting quality.

Body bronzers are especially perfect for those last-minute moments when you want to get a little extra color or for those that aren’t fans of self-tanners. (Editor’s note: I love using a body bronzer before a night out for an all-over boost!) Most body bronzers can be applied with makeup brushes, a tanning mitt or your hands, but, as with self-tanner, be sure to thoroughly wash your hands after application.

Below, shop five top-rated body bronzers that will give you an instant, noncommittal glow that you can enjoy for up to 24 hours.

1. St. Tropez Instant Glow Face & Body Bronzer Makeup, $25

Credit: Ulta

Available in two different shades, St. Tropez’s new, 100% vegan body bronzer can be used on both your face and your body. This formula is also smudge-proof and water resistant, so your glow lasts until you wash it off.

2. TAN-LUXE Instant Hero Skin Perfector, $36

Credit: TAN-LUXE

TAN-LUXE’s Instant Hero combats the appearance of redness, cellulite and spider veins thanks to its formula of vitamins B, C and E, aloe vera and caffeine. It also has an attached sponge that makes application a breeze.

3. Isle of Paradise Disco Tan Instant Wash-Off Body Bronzer, $24

Credit: Sephora

This illuminating body bronzer is packed with avocado, chia seed and coconut oils to be extra hydrating. Isle of Paradise’s radiant-finish formula is also great for improving the look of dull skin and uneven texture.

4. Vita Liberata Body Blur Instant HD Skin Finish Latte Light, $38.99

Credit: Vita Liberata

Vita Liberata’s Body Blur comes in several shades (shop all here) and leaves you with a “photo-ready skin finish.” The brand suggests applying the product in small amounts to your body with a tanning mitt and to your face with a makeup brush.

5. Charlotte Tilbury Supermodel Body, $65

Credit: Charlotte Tilbury

Charlotte Tilbury’s Supermodel Body is more of a body highlighter than a body bronzer but still has a bit of a bronzy hue — so it made the list! Plus, this moisturizing product has a roller applicator to let you apply some glow just where you want it.

If you liked this story, check out the self-tanners that In The Know editors love.

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