Self-tanning has come a long way. Gone are the days of streaky orange finishes and synthetic-smelling creams. Today’s tanning drops are sophisticated, skincare-infused, and designed for anyone seeking a customizable, buildable glow without exposure to harmful UV rays. Even better? Many formulas now emphasize clean, vegan, and nontoxic ingredients to support both your skin and your health.
After weeks of research, testing, and glow-up trials, I’m sharing seven of the best tanning drops you can confidently add to your routine—whether you’re looking for a subtle warmth or a vacation-worthy bronze. Each one meets high standards for safety, ease of use, and radiance.
My Top 7 Tanning Drops For A Clean Glow
1.Tan-Luxe The Face Illuminating Self-Tan Drops
Tan-Luxe revolutionized the self-tanning game with these drops. Designed to be mixed with your favorite serum or moisturizer, they allow full control over your color—add 2 drops for a hint of sun, or go up to 12 for a deeper bronze. The formula features raspberry seed oil and vitamin E to hydrate and protect.
Best For: All skin types, especially dry or mature skin
Key Ingredients: Raspberry seed oil, aloe vera, vitamin E
Size & Price: 1.01 oz – $49
Where to Buy: Sephora
Rating: ⭐ 4.4/5 from 1,200+ reviews
2.Isle of Paradise Self-Tanning Drops
These vegan, cruelty-free tanning drops come in three tone-correcting colors: peach (light), green (medium), and violet (dark). They’re packed with skin-nourishing oils and add a subtle glow or a full-on bronze depending on how much you use.
Best For: Color-correcting + buildable tan
Key Ingredients: Avocado oil, chia seed oil, coconut oil
Size & Price: 1.01 oz – $32
Where to Buy: Isle of Paradise
Rating: ⭐ 4.6/5 from 169+ reviews
3.Clarins Radiance-Plus Golden Glow Booster
This classic, lightweight formula blends seamlessly into skincare and creates a very natural golden tan—ideal for beginners or anyone afraid of going too dark. Clarins uses aloe vera and glycerin for hydration, plus their signature plant-based formula.
Best For: Beginners and minimalists
Key Ingredients: Aloe vera, glycerin
Size & Price: 0.5 oz – $37
Where to Buy: Clarins
Rating: ⭐ 4.3/5 from 240+ reviews
4.St. Tropez Self Tan Purity Vitamins Face Serum
A self-tanning serum that works overtime as skincare. It delivers a hydrating boost while gradually bronzing your complexion. Infused with vitamins C and D, this formula is lightweight, fast-absorbing, and perfect for daily wear.
Best For: Glowy skin + antioxidant benefits
Key Ingredients: Vitamin C, D, hyaluronic acid
Size & Price: 1.69 oz – $35
Where to Buy: St. Tropez
Rating: ⭐ 4.5/5 from 500+ reviews
5.The Body Shop Honey Bronze Drops of Sun
A budget-friendly, easy-to-use tanning drop for daily radiance. While it doesn’t offer a long-lasting tan, it gives instant warmth to the skin. Ideal for mixing with foundation or moisturizer to fake a vacation glow in seconds.
Best For: Quick results without commitment
Key Ingredients: Honey, glycerin
Size & Price: 0.5 oz – $22
Where to Buy: The Body Shop
Rating: ⭐ 4.5/5 from 50+ reviews
6.L’Oréal Paris Sublime Bronze Self-Tanning Facial Drops
These drugstore-friendly drops are fragrance-free and designed for sensitive skin. Use them daily with your nighttime cream or morning moisturizer to build a believable tan without streaks or patches.
Best For: Budget-conscious tanners
Key Ingredients: Glycerin, DHA
Size & Price: 1 oz – $16.49
Where to Buy: CVS
Rating: ⭐ 4.0/5 from 500+ reviews
7. Bondi Sands PURE Self-Tanning Drops
One of the cleanest formulas available, Bondi Sands PURE is vegan, fragrance-free, and formulated with skincare in mind. The drops include hyaluronic acid for hydration, vitamin C for glow, and vitamin E for soothing.
Best For: Skincare-first tanners
Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, vitamin E
Size & Price: 1.35 oz – $25
Where to Buy: Bondi Sands
Rating: ⭐ 4.1/5 from 780+ reviews
How to Use Tanning Drops For Best Results
Even the best tanning drops require a bit of technique to get that flawless, glowy finish:
🌿1.Start With a Clean Canvas
Wash and gently exfoliate your face or body before applying drops. This ensures even coverage and avoids blotchiness.
🌿2.Mix, Don’t Layer
Always mix your drops into a cream or lotion—never apply directly to skin. Start with 2–4 drops and increase as desired.
🌿3.Apply Evenly
Use your fingers or a brush to evenly distribute the mixture. Pay attention to hairlines, brows, and neck.
🌿4.Wash Hands Immediately
DHA (the active tanning ingredient) can stain your palms, so wash your hands thoroughly after application.
🌿5.Let It Develop
Allow the formula to sit for 6–8 hours before washing your face or applying makeup. Most drops develop gradually overnight.
Final Thoughts: Which One Is Right For You?
If you want luxury and full customization, Tan-Luxe is a top-tier pick. For sensitive skin or daily use, try Bondi Sands PURE or St. Tropez Vitamins Serum. And if you’re on a budget, L’Oréal or The Body Shop will still deliver that glow without breaking the bank.
In the end, the best tanning drop is the one that fits your lifestyle, routine, and skincare needs. These clean, nontoxic formulas make it easy to glow all year long—safely and beautifully.
