You want that warm glow. However, you also don’t want to deal with the consequences of sun exposure, artificial tanning odor, and streaky self-tanners.
In comes a solution that’s been making its rounds across cosmetics aisles everywhere – literally! But is it all just marketing talk or the real deal?
Let’s break it all down.
What Are Tanning Drops?
Tanning drops are intense self-tanning serum drops that you combine with your current skin care regimen. Think of your moisturizer, facial oils, and body lotion.
You can choose how many drops to use. This gives you direct control over the darkness of your tan. They’re among the most customizable forms of tanning available.
They contain an active ingredient called DHA, otherwise known as dihydroxyacetone. It reacts with amino acids found in the upper layers of your skin, giving you a temporary brownish-yellow hue.
What does this mean for you? A natural-looking tan that resembles someone who’s spent the weekend at the beach.
Why Are Tanning Drops So Popular Right Now?
A few years ago, a self-tan was synonymous with thick mousses and uneven application. Tanning drops revolutionized the game.
Here’s why everyone loves them:
They’re easy to use. No more mousse or mitts – no messy brown hands! Just add some drops to your lotion and apply like usual.
They’re gradual. You can increase your tan bit by bit. So there’s no risk of orange disaster. Get your tan exactly how you want.
They apply to your face and body. Almost all drops work on your entire body and face. They’re highly versatile.
They’re convenient. No need for a separate step; just add them to your existing skin care routine.
They smell good. Self-tans are famous for their biscuit-like scent. But many tanning drops have a pleasant fragrance.
How to Use Tanning Drops the Right Way
The key to maximizing the benefits of your tanning drops lies in the proper technique. Below are the easy steps for achieving a perfect result.
Step 1: Prepare your skin by exfoliating it beforehand. Dead cells create an uneven coloring effect. You should therefore gently exfoliate your skin the day before applying your tanning drops. Special attention needs to be paid to the knees, elbows, and ankles.
Step 2: Apply moisturizing cream to dry parts. Add drops after moisturizing your dry areas. If applied to dry skin, the DHA will be absorbed unevenly.
Step 3: Begin by applying less drops than expected. In case you would like to obtain a slight tan, add only 2-3 drops to your daily moisturizing cream. For a deeper tan, use 5-7 drops after several days.
Step 4: Blend well and use uniformly. Blend the drops well in the product before using it. Use sweeping movements while blending around the hairline, eyebrows, and jawline.
Step 5: Wash hands straightaway. In case you do not wish to have a tan on your palms, wash your hands immediately after applying. No excuses!
Step 6: Allow development time. Let your skin have at least 6-8 hours to develop the desired color.
Tanning Drops for Your Face vs. Your Body
All tanning drops are safe for use on both, but there are some considerations to be made.
On your face: Be cautious. The face is much more sensitive than your body. Apply no more than 2 drops in the evening serum or moisturizer initially. Make sure to check whether there are pore-clogging ingredients in case you are prone to acne.
On your body: You may be more liberal. Mix 5-7 drops into your body lotion and apply after bathing. Be sure to massage the mixture around the wrists, ankles, and knees.
Do Tanning Drops Work on All Skin Tones?
Yes, and it is definitely among the best things about them.
Since you decide how much you need, tanning drops work wonderfully on any skin type. Those who have fair skin will require only a few drops for some light, sun-kissed glow, while those with darker skin will require more drops for richer color.
When choosing drops, look for “buildable” or “customizable” products.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even with the perfect product, you may end up with undesirable results because of tiny mistakes. Here’s what to watch out for:
Overlooking exfoliation. Exfoliation is the leading reason why you get an uneven tan.
Applying too many drops at once. Have patience and apply the drops slowly over 3-5 days.
Applying over SPF during the day. SPF can interfere with how DHA develops. Apply your tanning drops at night instead. (Speaking of sun protection — make sure you understand how sunscreen works to protect your skin from UV damage. Tanning drops won’t protect you from the sun’s rays at all; you need a high SPF on hand all the same for daytime use)
Mixing with active ingredients like retinol or AHAs. This will accelerate skin cell renewal and make your tan develop unevenly. Don’t combine tanning drops with your active ingredients’ regimen.
Not blending around the hairline and eyebrows. This is where discoloration tends to become noticeable. Always apply an extra effort in blending in these areas.
How Long Does the Tan Last?
Most tanners will provide you with a glow for five to seven days before it begins to fade. This is perfectly normal.
Your body’s natural exfoliation process causes the shedding of the outermost layer of your skin on a regular basis, and it is this process that makes your glow fade gradually. All you need to do is use some drops in your moisturizer everyday.
The best thing about it? There are no hard lines when it comes to fading tanning drops.
What to Look for When Buying Tanning Drops
There are numerous products in the market. Here are the features that distinguish an effective drop from those meant to fool:
DHA percentage. Effective tanning drops have a high percentage of DHA as their active ingredient. They ensure proper tanning of the body.
Skin-friendly ingredients. High-quality products contain other important elements such as hyaluronic acid, Vitamin E, or Aloe Vera. Such products ensure that your skin stays nourished while it develops color.
Lightweight formula. Heavier formulations may be irritating to the skin. Choose a water-based or serum-like product for your skin.
Artificial scent. Some products are heavily perfumed. It may irritate sensitive skin. You should avoid highly-scented products.
Tanning Drops vs. Traditional Self-Tanner: Which Wins?
Both contain DHA, but the process is totally different.
Classic self-tanning products are applied directly to the skin, often as a foam or lotion. The application involves a tanning mitt, blending, and waiting until you put on clothes.
With tanning drops, you add these drops to your existing cosmetics. They are easy to use, highly adaptable, and more flexible.
If you have never used a self-tanning product, the best option for you is tanning drops. However, for those who wish to achieve a deep tan fast, classic self-tanners may be more beneficial.
But if a natural look is important to you and you want an easy product to integrate into your beauty ritual, go for tanning drops.
Are Tanning Drops Actually Worth It?
Honestly? Yes.
Are you tired of streaks in your self-tanners, unnatural orange colors, or looking for an effortless solution to look sun-kissed all year round? Try tanning drops. They’re effortless to apply, suitable for any skin type, and produce effects much more natural than other tanning methods.
Learning to use them is simple; after a few days of using them, you will find yourself wondering why you even bothered with other options.
Feed your skin with warmth without any sunlight.
Want to keep your glow looking its best? Check out our guide on how sunscreen protects your skin from unwanted tanning so you can protect your skin while still rocking that bronzed look all season long.
