The verdict is in. Yes, you can wear bronzer year-round. In fact, bronzer is your best bet for warming up pale, sallow winter skin. There are two fundamental aspects of bronzing to always be mindful of, and in the middle of winter they matter more than ever: color and application. But don't think the same rules of your July approach apply in January. With a few tweaks to the technique that gives you that bronzed goddess look during the summer months, you'll be sporting a healthy winter glow.

Color

Professional makeup artist Tim Quinn notes, "The key, of course, is to make sure that face, neck and décolletage all match - or at least appear to be all a part of the same color story." In the winter, that means switching to a lighter bronzer. Choose one that's just one or two shades darker than your natural skin tone. And keep the shimmer very soft. Too much of it looks unnatural and out of place this time of year. and subtly illuminate the face without looking fake.

Application

Hit the areas of the face that would normally get kissed by the sun-not all over. Quinn recommends starting at the temples, moving slightly under the cheekbones, then sweeping under the jawline and finally dusting the bridge of the nose. To avoid patchy color, use a clean makeup brush with natural-fiber bristles that will distribute pigment evenly. Be sure to tap off the excess powder before applying the color in light, swirling motions. In the winter, it's important to pair your bronzed skin with a rosy flush on the apples of the cheeks for the most believable and balanced faux glow.

What bronzer do you wear in the winter? Share your favorites below.

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