I picked this baby up from Farmers in Auckland when I first discovered Essence. I was on the market for a new bronzer. I purchased this for $7.90. I wasn't sure if it was going to be any good because this was a brand I have never heard of and due to the fact of how in expensive it is.
I love this bronzer. Its so easy to apply and its the perfect shade for me as a brunette. It is so easy to blend. Very impressed with the quality of the product for the small price. The scent is to die for! Heavenly vanilla. I have been using this bronzer every day and will continue to re purchase it.
This gem is an amazing bargain. For a small price you get a decent sized bronzer with top quality. Its everything you could want in a bronzer and more!
Essence Matte Bronzing Powders come in two colours; Blonde (for lighter skin) and Brunette (for darker skin). I know I probably should have gone for blonde as I'm quite fair but after comparing the two I accidentally put the wrong one back on the shelf and only noticed my mistake after I'd got home.
So, I ended up with 02 "Sunny" in the Brunettes range for darker skin. I gave it a go and honestly, it looks absolutely fine on my fair skin, as long as its used with a light hand. If it's applied too heavily it can start to look a little muddy.
The bronzer comes in a very basic, large, transparent plastic compact with a flip top lid and a catch that closes with a satisfying "click". The clear plastic allows you to see the cute picture embossed on the top of the bronzer (which is still faintly visible, even after multiple uses). Some of the bronzers come with a palm tree imprint but the one I have is a silhouette of two "fun-loving" ladies.
The first time I opened and used it, I was quite surprised by the smell. Its not overpowering and does disappear after its applied, but the bronzer smells exactly like desiccated coconut! You know, the stuff that you use for baking. Yum!
Because I accidentally purchased the wrong shade, I tend to use it more for contouring and the matte formula blends easily.
I would recommend this product and would definitely consider purchasing another one when this one is finished, although I'd probably get one from the "Blonde" range next time.
Tips: If you've bought the wrong shade and don't like the colour as a bronzer, use it to contour or use it as an eyeshadow.