Beam Me Up

Summer days are long gone and a sweep of standard bronzer is just not going to cut it anymore. Instead of letting forced heat, crisp fall air and the last few rays of sunshine damage and dry your skin, it's time to give it a little extra TLC... and a nice, seasonally appropriate glow factor. Rather than growing too loyal to the power of powder (not that it doesn't have its merits!), I suggest you take a step outside your comfort zone and scope out the latest in liquid gold. There are some wonderful products out there today and I'm going to share my top picks at (literally) every price range.

Courtesy of Chanel

SPLURGE--Soleil Tan de Chanel

chanel.com, $48

There's a legitimate reason behind the higher price of this creamy, iridescent liquid bronzer. Not only will it add instant glow power to your lifeless cheeks, but it lasts all day and just a tiny dab gets the job done. The colors are absolutely stunning and guarantee compliments from friends and strangers alike. And the chic frosted glass packaging isn't exactly an eye sore on your vanity, either.

Courtesy of Clinique

SANE--Clinique Up-Lifting Liquid Illuminator

clinique.com, $23

The handy applicator and portable bottle are certainly appreciated here. And, as with all Clinique products, this liquid bronzer promises to spare you from unnecessary irritation or acne breakouts as it's 100 percent hypoallergenic and oil-free. I like that you can use it all over the face—no need to stick to the cheek zone. You might find that adding a touch just underneath the arch of your brows packs mega appeal, too. This is a product to experiment with and there's nothing about that not to love.

Courtesy of Maybelline

STEAL--Maybelline Dream Mousse Bronzer

drugstore.com, $8

Forgive me. This one is not exactly a liquid, but rather it's a whipped-up, delicious foaming cream that will make you melt as you watch it melt onto your cheekbones. Luscious, even and adaptable for most skin tones, this is one time that the budget brand might just beat one of the more expensive products out there.

How's that for beauty on a dime? Let us know what you think!