There are two things you need to look for in great bronzing drops: an easy-to-spread formula that won’t leave you looking orange and streaky, and any additional perks like SPF or hydrating elements that take it to the next level. Lucky for you, this list has both – and more.
Bronzing drops in themselves are a great tool to get a sunless tan when you’ve been feeling dull and dry, or craving a glowy boost. They’re foolproof when it comes to achieving an even faux tan and require minimal effort to apply; we’re talking no mitts required.
Mainly designed to be added to your moisturiser (though some can be used on their own), we’d suggest using a smaller amount of the below products for your first go to avoid going too dark, as most develop with time (follow a less-is-more mentality). It’s also a good idea to consider your skin type when picking the best one for you, as many bronzing drops are pumped with elements that work better with certain complexions.
Start by using your normal cleanser, then apply the drops as per product instructions all the way from your forehead to your collar bone. Just make sure to wash your hands when you’re all done.
Now that we have that sorted, check out a few of the best face self tanners, below:
Best serum:
Drunk Elephant D-Bronzi™ Anti-Pollution Sunshine Drops, $60
Enriched with omega-rich virgin marula and black currant seed oil, as well as vitamin F, this product is a serum first, and a facial tanner second. Add a drop of D-Bronzi™ to your serum, oil or moisturiser for a gorgeous glow and a potent dose of protective antioxidants and omega fatty acids.
Best SPF bronzing drops:
Naked Sundays Cabana Glow SPF50+ Mineral Glow Drop, $45
We LOVE a bit of SPF, so the Naked Sundays Cabana Glow SPF50+ Mineral Glow Drops come in as an awesome sun-blocking base. Mix with your moisturiser for a subtle golden colour or apply after moisturiser (on its own or worn on top of makeup) for extra coverage and glow.
Best for beginners:
MCoBeauty Super Glow Bronzing Drops, $31.99
Probably the most blendable texture of the lot, if this is your first foray into bronzing drops, we suggest you start here. The concentrated drops are also infused with Jojoba Seed Oil, Cocoa Extract, White Tea Extract, and Hyaluronic Acid – so your skin will thank you.
Best brightening drops:
Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Hue Drops, $32.00 – $79.00
Think of this one as skincare with an added glow: the multi-use serum features Glow Recipe’s iconic brightening & hydrating ingredients with a warm hue that will have you looking healthy, not streaky or patchy.
Best for a deep glow
Bondi Sands Self Tan Drops – dark, $17.95
These drops contain a skin-loving mix of niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and vitamin C, working to add some colour to your skin, but also taking care of it under the surface. They’re quick to soak in, and don’t leave any stickiness in their wake, all while being irritation-free for all.
Best for pale skin:
N°12 Bronzing Face Tanning Drops, $42
This self tanner for the face is incredibly light, so it won’t make fair skin look orange or too dark. It’s also totally fragrance-free, so you’re not stricken with the dreaded fake tan smell while it develops on your face. Just add more product to intensify the pigment.
Best all rounder:
Ultra Violette super glow drops, $45.00
If you’re a fan of Ultra Violette’s SPF, you’re going to love this. Think of it as your extra layer of broad spectrum SPF50 UVA and UVB protection that simultaneously serves the skin with a healthy hit of radiance. With two buildable shades, you can mix it with moisturiser or add it under or over your makeup.
Most lightweight formula:
ORRO & CO Amalfi Glow Drops, $49.95
Lightweight in texture and colourless (so it won’t stain your pillowcase!), the ORRO & CO Amalfi Glow Drops feature some awesome hydrating and age-defying ingredients (Hyaluronic Acid, Jojoba, Vitamin E, Vitamin C and Rosehip Oil) alongside a sun-kissed colour that’ll leave your skin glowing. Designed to work with your daily moisturiser or serum, simply add a few drops as per instructions in your night time routine, and apply to your face and body for a subtle golden finish come morning.
Best for multiple skin tones:
Coco & Eve Bronzing Face Drops, $39
Available in two shades – medium and dark – Coco & Eve’s drops are specifically designed for a range of skin tones, helping you achieve a more even glow. They create a buildable tan with just a few applications, while still keeping things streak-free.
Best for dry skin:
St Tropez Luxe Tan Tonic Glow Drops, $39.99
These drops contain a skin-loving mix of niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and vitamin C, working to add some colour to your skin, but also taking care of it under the surface. They’re quick to soak in, and don’t leave any stickiness in their wake, all while being irritation-free for all.
Best glow:
Ciaté London Brazilian Glow Bronzing Serum
Featuring a unique serum to water texture, Ciaté’s bronzing serum helps to brighten, hydrate and soften skin for a super glowy, sun kissed finish. I love it under my foundation for a super sun-kissed look.
How do you use self-tanning drops?
Tanning drops are totally customisable depending on the look you’re going for — the rule is: the more drops, the deeper the tan — and they can be applied using a number of different methods like with your daily moisturiser – or on their own.
While you might think exfoliating is a good idea, pause that thought: exfoliation must always take place at least a few hours before you apply a new layer of self-tan. And you should only be exfoliating you face once a week max, regardless.
It should take between two to six drops to get an even tan, and they can be applied morning or night.
Are tanning drops better than gradual tan?
Tanning drops will develop into more of a natural-looking tan over time, which is a gentler option for the face. But which formulation is better is really down to personal choice.
It can also be more difficult to avoid streakiness when using body tan.
Do you need to wash off face tanning drops?
They don’t all need to be washed off and will gradually develop throughout the day, however some provide better results when washed after a certain number of hours, so always check the product info.
What is the best self tanner for faces?
The best face tanners will contain skincare ingredients, especially if you have acne-prone or sensitive skin.
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