Bronzing Drops vs. Tanning Drops: Differences and Favorites
(Photo : Vecteezy / Anna Om)

Sun-kissed skin takes time and effort like spending some time under the sun. But that opens up the possibility of sun damage. There are other ways to get the complexion you desire like using bronzing drops and tanning drops.

Bronzing Drops vs. Tanning Drops

Bronzing drops provide a temporary tan that washes off, while tanning drops offer a semi-permanent pigment that lasts longer. Tanning drops typically contain dihydroxyacetone (DHA) for skin darkening and often include hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin for a dewy finish.

Bronzing Drops

Bronzing drops are versatile, pigmented liquids that enhance your natural complexion's warmth and glow. You can mix them with moisturizer, serum, or foundation, or apply them directly for a radiant look. Some drops are so luminous they can be used as a highlighter on the face or body. They offer a temporary boost or a longer-lasting effect, depending on your preference. 

Whichever way you use them, bronzing drops instantly revitalize your skin, giving it a radiant, sun-kissed appearance. Here are some of the top product choices.

Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Hue Drops

The Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Hue Drops offer a warm, natural glow while brightening skin over time. Packed with niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and watermelon, this serum hydrates, soothes, and delivers essential vitamins. Priced at $35, it is lightweight and suitable for all skin types. 

The serum can be used alone for a warm glow, mixed with foundation for added luminosity, or applied as a highlighter. Cruelty-free and free of harmful ingredients, it is a clean and planet-positive choice for achieving radiant skin.

Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter

Charlotte Tilbury's Hollywood Flawless Filter is a game-changer, offering the glow of a highlighter with the versatility of a luminous primer. This complexion booster blurs, smooths, and illuminates for a radiant finish. Infused with finely milled powders, porcelain flower extract, and glossy oil, it moisturizes and brightens skin. 

Use it alone, under or mixed with foundation, or as a highlighter for a flawless, glowing complexion. Get it for $49 exclusively at Sephora.

Tan-Luxe Super Gloss

To get a sun-kissed glow without the harmful effects of UV rays, use the Tan-Luxe Super Gloss serum. Priced at $49, this DHA-free serum combines skincare, makeup, and SPF 30 protection in one bottle. It hydrates and smooths with squalane and hyaluronic acid while providing a universally flattering tinted tone that bronzes and perfects instantly. 

For a natural, dewy glow, apply a desired number of drops to your face and massage in circular motions.

Tanning Drops

Tanning drops offer a safe way to achieve a sun-kissed glow without sun damage. These drops are easy to use, customizable, and blend seamlessly into the skin, avoiding streaks and patchiness. Unlike traditional self-tanners, tanning drops are hydrating and can be mixed with moisturizer for a subtle, natural-looking tan. They contain DHA, a non-harmful ingredient that reacts with the skin's surface to create a temporary tan. 

With regular application, you can maintain a radiant complexion without compromising your skin's health. Check out our list of quality tanning drops.

Isle of Paradise Self-Tanning Face Drops

Priced at $32, Isle of Paradise Self Tanning Face Drops offer a customizable glow with color-correcting benefits. These drops, suitable for normal skin, can be mixed with your favorite moisturizer for an even, long-lasting tan. Infused with natural ingredients like grapefruit, chia seed, and avocado oils, they hydrate the skin while providing a gradual glow. 

Simply add 2-12 drops to your moisturizer, mix, and apply for a flawless tan.

Garnier Ambre Solaire Natural Bronzer

The Garnier Ambre Solaire Natural Bronzer Self-Tan Face Drops offer a customizable glow and gradual tan. Enriched with hyaluronic acid and moisturizing coconut water, these drops can be used alone or mixed with moisturizer for a streak-free, healthy glow. 

The vegan formula contains no animal-derived ingredients or by-products and comes in a bottle made of 40% recycled glass. Priced at $19, these drops provide a natural-looking tan while caring for your skin.

Clarins Radiance-Plus Golden Glow Booster

Clarins Radiance-Plus Golden Glow Booster is a self-tanning solution for the face, priced at $36. These drops are designed to be mixed with any moisturizer to create a radiant, even tan. 

Formulated with 99% natural ingredients, including DHA + erythrulose, the drops deliver a long-lasting, streak-free tan. The fragrance-free formula also includes aloe vera extract and glycerin to leave skin hydrated and supple.