natural bronzer, mineral bronzer, how to apply mineral bronzer, apply natural bronzer, bronzer fake tanQ: Can bronzers and self-tanners be used in winter? —Jaimie S., via email.

A: Yes, but use lighter shades of bronzer for a fresh and vibrant look. Start by cleansing and gently exfoliating your skin. Smooth on a tinted moisturizer or add a few drops of tinted self-tanner to your regular face cream. Sweep a compact bronzing powder over the apples of your cheeks using a large brush. Or use a sponge and blend a cream or stick bronzer on your cheekbones, down the bridge of your nose and on your temples. Start with a subtle amount of color and add more only if necessary.

Some of the best winter-friendly shades of natural bronzers that we love:

Dr. Hauschka Natural Bronzing Powder (use sparingly, as the color is quite concentrated)

Trilogy Instant Bronzing Gel (may go a little sticky)

UNE Healthy Glow Mineral Powder (great for lighter skin tones)

Lavera Mineral Sun Glow Powder (choose shade 001 - Sunlight, it's absolutely brilliant!)

As for self-tanners, we do not encourage their use. Self-tanners contain dehydroxyacetone, which is, natural or not, a strong oxidiser of the skin. Studies show that DHA can encourage free radical formation on the skin and can potentially speed up skin aging and even put you in a higher risk for skin cancer. Yes, even in winter time.