The secret to good bronzer? It’s in the baking

Written by Amelia Mularz   


If someone mentions Italian baking, you might think of biscotti, focaccia, or maybe even ziti. But does your bronzing powder come to mind? No? Ah, that’s just because you haven’t discovered Miljo Cosmetics yet.

Let me introduce you to the finest Italian baking around (not to mention the least hazardous to your waistline): Miljo Terra Bronzer. Made in Italy, this terracotta-baked powder is my latest beauty obsession. Just like your Grandma’s pizzelle cookies (let’s just pretend we all have an Italian “nonna” for a moment), Terra Bronzer is prepared to perfection the old-fashioned way—using a baking process that dates back to 1863. But unlike your Grandma’s desserts, this powder bakes on elevated terracotta “wafers” rather than cookie sheets, and the whole process takes two days, as opposed to the time it takes your Grandma to watch one of her “stories.”

So what does all this baking mean for you? Only the softest, easiest-to-apply bronzer you’ve ever tried. You see, all that cook time helps get rid of moisture in order to create a super fine powder. Brush the bronzer on dry for a light application, or use a sponge and dab it on wet for more coverage. No need to worry about streaks—Terra Bronzer is one of the smoothest formulas I’ve tried. But I’m not the only one who’s crazy about it—our very own Tanya Zuckerbrot wears Terra Bronzer too. In fact, she refers to it as her “secret weapon.” Oops…just don’t tell her I told you.

Miljo Terra Bronzer, $14 (on sale!), HouseofBeautyWorld.com

Skinny Contest: Do you want sun-kissed skin without the sun? Let us know why by e-mailing contests@skinnyandthecity.com by April 22nd, 2010 and 5 readers will win a bronzer! Please include what shade you'll need in your e-mail.