NARS Laguna Bronzing Powder Review

The number that matters on a Laguna compact

If the original Laguna shade is what you’re after, look for 02 Original. NARS describes it as light-medium bronze with neutral undertones. Laguna 03 is also light-medium, but warmer. That difference is worth more than a glance at the two pans. A neutral bronze can add depth beside a pink blush without putting an orange stripe between the cheek and the hairline.

I like the present talc-free powder for the way a light first sweep leaves room to build. The compact holds one generous pan, with enough space to move a broad brush across it. Use the whole brush for a sweep over the temple. Turn it slightly and use the narrower edge if you want to bring the cheekbone into focus.

Keep a little distance from the mirror

Touch the brush to the pan and tap off excess. Put the first colour high on the outer cheek, move back towards the ear and soften the lower edge with a clean side of the brush. If you start at the middle of the cheek, the heaviest deposit can end up where you meant to place blush. Work on both sides before deciding how much deeper to go.

Step back and look at the face beside the neck. A convincing bronze is often the one that seems like very little work close up. Use any colour left on the brush at the temples and along the hairline, especially if you wear your hair back. The idea is to connect the warm areas rather than draw an outline around the face.

Why choose the $44 powder?

The full-size compact holds 11 g. I’d spend $44 if 02 is the neutral depth I keep trying to find in less expensive bronzers, or if another shade in the range is the better undertone match. There are nine choices in the current powder line. That choice is part of what you’re paying for.

If you simply want an easy warm sweep and like a tropical scent, Physicians Formula Butter Bronzer costs much less. Laguna is the one I’d swatch first when the exact balance of depth and undertone has been the sticking point.