Skip Nav

What Is 3-D Tanning?

3-D Tanning Is the Contouring Technique You Must Master For Summer

Joyce Bonelli is the Kardashian sisters' go-to makeup artist, so when she reveals a beauty secret, we listen closely (and take notes). In an interview with the Daily Mail, the expert explained that her current favorite method to achieve a chiseled contour on her clients is 3-D tanning.

Working with Marissa Carter, the founder of bronzing brand Cocoa Brown, Bonelli developed a technique that utilizes three products to make features look defined, taut, and luminous. First, apply a tanning mousse like Cocoa Brown One Hour Tan ($12) to your face and body for a base glow.

Once the color has developed, use a foundation brush to apply bronzing gel [try Laura Mercier Bronzing Gel ($32)] where the sun would hit your face — your forehead, tops of your cheeks, and the tip of your nose, which Bonelli says gives "the face a very natural, sun-kissed look." She also advises adding more color to your cleavage and on the sides of your arms and legs, which makes your limbs look thinner. Finish by slicking a glimmering oil like St. Tropez Luxe Dry Oil ($50) on your cheekbones, collarbone, and down your legs for a supersexy sheen!

Sculpting aficionados may remember last Summer's tontouring technique, which sounds practically identical to 3-D tanning. However, the addition of the third highlighting step really makes a difference in the finished result. Just look at Khloé's glistening glow above!

Even better, this technique is semi-permanent because it features self-tanner, which gives skin a temporary bronzed effect for up to a week. Once you've mastered 3-D tanning, you can rock a radiant contour every morning without adding extra products to your makeup routine. Not only is this ideal for lazy girls, but it's a great timesaver to try in anticipation of a vacation.

Latest Beauty