Chantecaille Radiance Gel Bronzer

Chantecaille's new bronzer, Radiance Gel Bronzer ($54), arrived at my doorstep last week. I'd been waiting for it to launch, and as soon as it did, I pounced. Ordering right before the latest special offer (a full-size Les Bijoux Eyeliner Palette free with a $200 purchase), it was destined to be mine as soon as possible. I must have every new Chantecaille introduction.

The weightless and ultra-moisturizing formula blends into the skin easily, adding a touch of sun to my complexion without the look of makeup. It's extremely natural. Plus, it comes with skin-care benefits, the norm for Chantecaille.

Raspberry stem cells repair DNA damage and prevent inflammation and free radical damage. Bearberry complex provides anti-glycation and antioxidant protection. A new polymer provides extraordinary smoothness, a natural finish, and luminosity for 12 hours or more. Additionally, the vegetal-dervied squalane improves the skin's elasticity (and no animals were harmed).

Featured as one of People StyleWatch June issue’s “sun-kissed makeup” picks, this liquid gel hybrid bronzer will enhance any tan, giving your skin a radiant après beach glow. Or it will make you look like you took that trip to the beach - all without leaving home. The weightless formula can be worn under or over Chantecaille's Ultra Sun Protection, with its SPF 50 PA+++, or your favorite foundation.

I knew you would want to see the color.  I took my swatch photos in full, late-afternoon sun. I applied a very small bit of the gel with my finger and did not blend it well. I was aiming for a large swatch. I tried to get a few exposures to show you the beautiful golden tan shade, appropriate for pale faces, like mine, as well as darker complexions. I have experimented with Radiance Gel Bronzer, wearing it three ways so far: 1) mixed with my moisturizer, 2) instead of foundation, and 3) as a contouring product to chisel my facial features. It aced all three tests, making me look really nice (if I'm allowed to throw myself a compliment). I love the slight glow, and the color has absolutely no mud in it when applied.

You can build the color with this bronzer, but I prefer a light application, which looks natural on my skin. I was surprised that this bronzer is a one-shade-fits-all color, but I think it's going to work for almost everyone. The darkest complexions may find it too light.

I knew I'd love it. After all, it was created by Chantecaille. I had no idea how much - until I tried it. Now I need to have a second tube in reserve, and it's a good time to buy. Maybe I can score the GWP at Neiman Marcus Camp Gorgeous.

If you'd like to see Radiance Gel Bronzer before you buy, it is arriving at Chantecaille counters as I write. Check it out! If you'd like to have Chantecaille's amazing GWP, order online soon. Those GWPs disappear within seconds - as soon as the supply is exhausted.

Photo at top courtesy of Chantecaille; other photos by Best Things in Beauty