The 14 Best Tanning Drops for Naturally Glowy Skin, as Ranked by a Beauty Editor

Best for: Buildable glow

The reviews say it all. These self-tanning drops are somewhat of a cult product within the beauty world because they deliver a subtle, healthy glow with zero faff. Simply dispense a few drops into your night cream, and you’ll wake up to a beautifully radiant glow.

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Best for: A natural look

If you want natural-looking results that you can gradually build up each day, you absolutely have to have these Beauty Pie tanning drops on your radar. Not only do they impart an even glow, but they're also infused with hydrating hyaluronic acid, as well as prebiotics, amino acids and peptides to nourish the skin. They're great if you find most tanning drops upset your skin, and the serum texture sinks straight in to a non-sticky finish.

Best for: Transformative bronzer

From Aussie tanning experts, Bondi Sands, these drops are suitable for use on both face and body—making light work of your weekly tanning routine. "I've tried many tanning drops over the years ,however none have been quite as effective as these ones from Bondi Sands. Offering an intense but buildable glow, I like to mix a few drops in with my moisturiser in the evening, and after around two or three days, my complexion looks brighter, more radiant and with a natural bronzed finish," says freelance fashion and beauty editor, Jazzria Harris.

Best for: Dry skin

Perfect for dry skin, this formula is boosted with hyaluronic acid to help hydrate your skin while 14% DHA works to give skin a glow in just two hours. After just one use of these drop, you can expect a noticeable bronzed finish.

Best for: A tailored glow

Available in light, medium and dark formulas, each with colour-correcting undertones to help create a truly natural-looking tan, these drops are one of the easiest ways to control and customise your glow.

Best for: Luxury tanning

Using an all-natural tanning formula, these drops can be added to moisturisers, serums, oils and even foundation to help you maintain a bronzed glow around the clock.

Best for: Acne-prone skin

Specifically formulated for breakout-prone skin, these water-based drops are non-comedogenic (so won’t clog pores) and are packed with soothing ingredients like aloe vera, panthenol and vitamin E.

Best for: All-over tanning

If you’re a fan of a streamlined routine and need a tanner that works from head to toe, look no further. These drops deliver a subtle, streak-free glow in just one application.

Best for: Intense bronze glow

For a more potent glow, these drops can actually be applied directly to skin, but if you prefer a lighter, buildable finish, I’d recommend mixing them with your moisturiser.

Best for: A natural-looking buildable tan

If you're looking for an entry point into tanning drops, Tropic's gradual formula is a great option. Alongside offering a natural, buildable bronze tone, they also contain aloe vera and coconut water to hydrate. When mixed with moisturiser, you'll be left with an even glow that looks subtle yet radiant.

"When I find my skin looks a little sallow and in need of a boost, I reach for these tanning drops. The texture feels practically weightless when mixed with moisturiser, while the gradual formula offers a hint of colour without feeling too intense," says  Jazzria.

Best for: A hydrated, dewy tan

For tanning drops packed with skin-loving ingredients, definitely check out James Read's Sunbright. You'll find hyaluronic acid to hydrate skin and ensure an even coverage, cocoa extract to soften and aloe vera to soothe any irritation. Add to that the fact they leave skin with a healthy bronze glow, you've got a winning formula

Best for: A light, sun-kissed glow

100% natural and infused with Caudalie's signature grape water, Vinobronze is the latest addition to the brand's much-loved skincare range. Rather than an intense bronze, it gives skin a beautifully natural-looking, sun-kissed glow that is perfect for pale skin tones.

Best for: Body tanning

The body version of the aforementioned face drops, I use these twice a week, mixed in with my body cream, to help maintain a natural-looking glow all year long.

Best for: Customisable body tanning

Looking for a product that delivers a long-lasting tan in just a few hours? This lightweight formula mixes easily with all manner of body creams and lotions, developing over four to six hours, and lasts for up to five days in just one application. Plus, they come in various strengths for different skin tones.