These are the best bronzing drops and this is how you use them
Not a day goes by without me finishing my skincare routine with a layer of bronzing drops after my SPF because yes, I apply that every single day. Actually, you’re supposed to mix bronzing drops with a cream, but since I apply SPF everywhere (eyebrows, hairline, behind my ears) and prefer not to put bronzing drops in my hair, I don’t mix them. Luckily, my skin is oily enough after all those skincare steps that it still blends well and applies easily. So I really can’t live without it. And I don’t think I’m the only one, as more and more brands are launching bronzing drop-like products. No self-tanner, but immediately a beautiful tint: without hassle, without stains, without stress about the color and with a glow.
What are bronzing drops actually (and why do you want them now)?
Bronzing drops are light, gold or copper pigmented drops that give your skin an instant sunkissed glow. They are often compared to a self-tanner, but while self-tanner lasts for days, bronzing drops give you a temporary sunkissed color that you can simply wash off in the evening. Ideal. They are often packed with nourishing ingredients like antioxidants, moisturizing agents (think: hyaluronic acid) and vitamins, which makes them fall more into the skincare category than makeup. The texture is usually thin and liquid, unlike self-tanner, which is thicker and more solid.
A self-tanner also requires a whole step-by-step plan: exfoliating, shaving, applying, hoping for an even effect and especially: praying that you don’t wake up like a tiger. With bronzing drops, you actually never have that uncertainty? You apply them in ten seconds, and you’re done.
TikTok made me do it: the hype around Drunk Elephant
If you’ve opened TikTok in the past two years, you’re probably familiar with the D-Bronzi Anti-Pollution Sunshine Drops from Drunk Elephant. This product has been around for years, but became a mega hype after it-girls like Hailey Bieber showcased it in their routines. The formula contains antioxidants like cacao extract and vitamin D boosters, and gives your skin a warm, natural tint – without that annoying (and quite outdated) orange undertone. Result: sold out for months. And honestly? Rightfully so, because the result is just so beautiful.
Which bronzing drops can you shop (and which do you want)?
Drunk Elephant is one of my favorites and is not a bestseller for nothing, but luckily there are now many other really nice ones to shop. Here they come:
e.l.f. Halo Glow Liquid Filter
Not an exact dupe of Drunk Elephant, but a beautiful glow with a soft coverage. Contains squalane and hyaluronic acid, so nice and hydrating.
Summer Fridays Sheer Skin Tint
A bit more coverage, but still that soft, summery effect. Plus: niacinamide for a more even skin.
Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter
An iconic product that leans more towards the illuminator side, but definitely gives a bronzing effect in the right shade. Think: filter in a bottle.
Saie Glowy Super Gel
A juicy glow-booster with vitamin C and rose extract. Perfect as a base or mixed with foundation.
Typology Glow Drops
From French soil, minimalist design and packed with active ingredients. The formula contains carotene extract for a subtle tint.
Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Hue Drops
A combination of skincare and glow – niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and color. And of course their popular watermelon scent.
Westman Atelier Liquid Super Loaded
Luxury, luxury and more luxury. These bronzing drops are intensely pigmented, nourishing and formulated by makeup artist Gucci Westman.
Essence Drop Of Sunshine Bronzing Drops
Budget and surprisingly good. Light texture, natural effect and no orange glow in sight.
Olcay Gulsen Beauty Bronzing Drops
Dutch brand, sleek packaging, easy to use. Gives a soft glow without glitter.
Kruidvat Sun Silk Glow Bronzing Drops
Budget top with SPF and glow in one. Ideal for a quick morning routine or on vacation.
How do you best use bronzing drops?
Very simple: you can mix them with your day cream, serum, or primer, but you can also, as I do, apply them directly after your skincare. Start with a drop and gradually build up the color. Blend well, especially along the hairline and jawline, and don't forget your neck. I always use my fingers, but you can also blend it with a brush. And if you want some extra glow on your shoulders or décolletage? Then just mix a drop into your body lotion.
Last tip: choose the right shade
Make sure your bronzing drops are about one to two shades darker than your own skin, and match your undertone. Do you have a warm undertone? Then go for gold or peach. Do you have a cooler undertone? Then a more neutral shade works better. This way, the glow blends nicely with your own color and looks natural.
@thelipsticklesbians We’ve never had so many liquid bronzer style products on the market but what actually makes them different? 👀 At first glance, @DIBSBEAUTY, @Saie, @Natasha Denona, and @makeupbymario all sit in the same category: glowy, liquid formulas meant to add warmth and dimension. But how do you actually use them, and who they’re for is totally different! Part of why I love beauty so much is the nuance and how the same category can serve totally different purposes depending on finish, texture, and intent. It’s not about which one is better, it’s about what you want her to do for you, always! I hope you enjoy this mini breakdown. We do super deep dives on every category and format in our course, the LLAB. So if you love these kinds of videos and are a beauty nerd like me, come be a part of our community over there ❤️ What do y’all think beauty queens? What do you look for in your bronzer? #liquidbronzer #bronzer #makeup #makeupreview #beautyliteracy #BeautyTok #thelipsticklesbians
Source: Allure
