elf Putty Bronzer At a Glance At A Glance
The e.l.f. Putty Bronzer is creamy, semi-matte potted bronzer.
• Shades: 8 available for $7 each.
• Formula: Highly pigmented yet buildable putty-like bronzer.
• Packaging: Round pot that is compact yet can fit a brush.
• Finish: Cream to powder and semi-matte.
My focus is on an elf Putty Bronzer review of the line. I am swatching all of the shades and breaking down if these will work for you. When it comes to elf Putty Blush and Bronzer, they draw a lot of similarities. If you like the blush, then you will like the bronzer.
Details & Claims
We will start with where to buy the bronzer. Most retailers that carry elf will have the bronzer, however, they may not carry all of the shades. elf and Ulta should offer all shades. The price is around $7 per pot.
These cream bronzers claim to have a putty to powder formula that is highly pigmented, yet buildable. They are designed to provide a natural, sun kissed glow. You should be able to effortlessly blend them to a semi-matte finish. These have a lightweight formula with non-greasy wear that should smooth and even out the complexion. Any skin type can wear these.
To apply all you have to do is pat it on where you want it, then use circular motions to blend. They do offer an elf Putty Bronzer Brush, which is perfectly good to use. In my review to come, I will speak more about application tools.
Ingredients
The key ingredients are Argan Oil which moisturizes the skin, and Vitamin E to nourish and to soften. Here is the full ingredient list:
Phenyl Trimethicone, Silica, Aluminum Starch Octenylsuccinate, Polymethyl Methacrylate, Polyethylene, Microcrystalline Wax (Cera Microcristallina), Phenoxyethanol, Diethylhexyl Syringylidenemalonate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Caprylyl Glycol, Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Glycerin, Red Iron Oxide (Ci 77491), Yellow Iron Oxide (Ci 77492), Black Iron Oxide (Ci 77499), Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891), Blue 1 Lake (Ci 42090), Red 33 Lake (Ci 17200)
Swatches & Shades
They are available in 8 shades:
- Feelin’ Shady
- Tan Lines
- Honey Drip
- Golden Daze
- Bronzed Belle
- Sun Kissed
- Beach, Please!
- Cabana Cutie
Each shade really has its own thing going on, especially Cabana Cutie with a purple edge. You can see how creamy and diffused this formula is. Below are the swatches of all shades.
Beach, Please!
Bronzed Belle
Cabana Cutie
Feelin’ Shady
Golden Daze
Honey Drip
Sun Kissed
Tan Lines
Review
Everything that I have to say here is very well in line with my elf Putty Blush review, as they really are the same product. First and foremost, I find that these have buildable coverage that is easy to control. Even though the shades look bold in the pot, you should have no fear.
Further, these blend great! I find them to be smooth and creamy, while not lifting product up underneath. With that being said, I have never applied these over powder, as that is typically a no-no for creams.
These cream bronzers last all day without fading, and they do dry down to a semi-matte finish that feels like powder.
I really am impressed by the shade range. They do offer something for everyone. Depending on your skin tone, you might want to purchase several shades that you can use for bronzer and cream contour. Some of these shades are simply too dark for me. They might become suitable for underpainting contour with a light hand, which is when you contour before foundation and concealer application.
When it comes to application, these are flexible and easy enough to use that you can go with anything. Besides their Putty Bronzer Brush, I also like to use their Putty Blush Brush or their Small Stipple Brush. Honestly, your fingers will be good too, and I have even dipped a sponge in these. These bronzers get my endorsement!
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Buildable coverage that is easy to control
- Smooth, creamy formula that blends well without lifting product underneath
- Long-lasting wear with a semi-matte, powder-like finish
- Wide shade range suitable for bronzing and contouring
- Flexible application — works well with brushes, fingers, or a sponge
Cons
- Not suitable for application over powder
- Some shades may be too dark for lighter skin tones unless used for underpainting
Frequently Asked Questions
What skin types work best with e.l.f. Putty Bronzers?
They work well for all skin types, but especially oily or combo skin due to the semi-matte dry down. Dry skin may prefer the Luminous version.
What’s the difference between the original and luminous formulas?
The original is more matte with a natural finish, while the luminous version has subtle shimmer for a dewy look.
Do the Putty Bronzers blend easily?
Yes, they blend smoothly with a brush, sponge, or fingers. The formula is creamy at first but sets to a powder-like finish.
Can you use these over powder or only on bare skin?
They apply best on top of cream or liquid products, but with a light hand and the right brush, they can layer over powder too.
Are the shades warm or neutral?
Most shades lean warm or golden, but some (like “Bronzed Belle”) are closer to neutral.
Shop The Bronzer
This shade range is all-inclusive, and the product simply works well with little room for error. If you pair these with the Putty Blush line, you will have a beautiful cream look that wears for a long time. Do you prefer cream over powder bronzers? Until next time, continue to let your true beauty shine.
One Response
I have this, but I found it went really patchy on me!
Danielle | thereluctantblogger.co.uk