Splurge vs steal: Blushes and bronzers

When it comes to year-round glowing skin, blushes and bronzers are a girl’s best friend. With both in your make-up bag, sun-kissed skin and rosy cheeks are just a sweep away. There are the ooh-la-la finds, which can cost you a pretty penny, or the budget-friendly options that rival in colour pay-off – so how much are you willing to spend? Have a read of our splurge vs steal to help you decide...

RELATED: Are you wearing the right blush for your skin tone?

SHIMMER BRONZER

Estée Lauder Bronze Goddess Powder Bronzer, $68

bh says: Available in four different shades, you can pick the perfect tone for that realistic sun-kissed glow.

essence sun club shimmer bronzing powder, $5.35

You say: “What I really [like about this product is] it isn't massively shimmery and glittery like other bronzers, giving a more natural finish that can be used for contouring if you wish.” -steph1234567

RELATED: Blush vs bronzer: Which should you be wearing?

SHIMMER BLUSH

NARS Blush in Orgasm, $47, mecca.com.au

bh says: The name says it all really, this blush is GOOD. The peachy-pink glow of this shade suits a wide range of skin tones, which has given it quite the cult status.

NYX Cosmetics Powder Blush, $9.95

You say: “Pinched is a pretty good dupe of Nars Orgasm (I have the Nars Orgasm multi-stick). The colour pay-off is a bit more intense, so you have to be quite light-handed.” -Eidolon

MATTE BRONZER

Benefit Hoola, $51

You say: “If I was deserted on an island and could only take one beauty product with me... it would be this one! This amazing little perfect-in-a-box creation is so versatile and pigmented [–] I could actually rave about it all day.” - Neverland

ulta3 The Big Bronzer, $9.95

bh says: The warm tone of this bronzer means it’s easily buildable, without turning Oompa Loompa orange.

RELATED: The right way to apply bronzer

MATTE BLUSH

Bobbi Brown Blush, $45

bh says: This silky blush goes on smoothly, but then won’t budge. The matte finish is perfect for those trying to combat shine.

Australis Show Some Cheek, $12.95

You say: “It gives my cheeks a gorgeous flushed colour [and] is very pigmented so a little goes a long way. I find it blends out lovely and is easy to build up colour.” - NatashaBerra

RELATED: Where to apply blush for your face shape

BODY BRONZER

Lancôme Flash Bronzer Legs Gel Shimmering, $60

bh says: No need to worry about sticky residue with this body bronzer – the micro mist gel formula will leave your body with a satin finish (not to mention a sexy summer glow).

Sportsgirl Metallic Body Glow, $12.95, sportsgirl.com.au

bh says: Using this body bronzer is a rite of passage AND such an easy way to get glowing, bronzed legs without the commitment of a tan.

RELATED: Your best tan on a budget

CREAM BLUSH

Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Cream Blush, $52

You say: “This product is a pleasure [to] use, it smells nice, comes in a great compact with a good size mirror so I can apply it anywhere, and with so many vitamins (A, C, and E!) I feel like I'm treating my skin to something special.” -Bide

Models Prefer Cream Blush Stick, $10.99

bh says: If you like your blush dewy, this shimmery on-the-go stick is ideal for you. Use a brush if you’re applying over foundation (so you can layer instead of move), but bare skin beauties can swipe it straight on!

Are you more of a blush or bronzer kind of girl? Have you tried any of the buys above?