The Best Bronzing Drops for a Natural-Looking Tan All Year

Mar. 15, 2025

In This ArticleView AllIn This ArticleOur Top PicksReviewsAdd to CartOther Bronzing Drops We TriedWhat to KnowBehind the ScenesWhy Trust PEOPLE?What Is PEOPLE Tested?

In This ArticleView All

In This Article

View All

Our Top Picks

Reviews

Add to Cart

Other Bronzing Drops We Tried

What to Know

Behind the Scenes

Why Trust PEOPLE?

What Is PEOPLE Tested?

Photo:People / Alyssa Brascia

People / Alyssa Brascia

As a devoutsunscreen-wearer, I’m plagued with a face that’s consistently three shades lighter than the rest of my body during summer. Enter: bronzing drops.

While it’s easy to throw onself-tannerat night or addtanning dropsinto your daily moisturizer, you never really know how your skin will look until after the eight hours of color development — and at that point, you’re stuck with it. So I’ve tried hordes of golden-bronze products this year to ensure a good result.

Experts Say“Bronzing drops are a concentrated liquid bronzer that can be applied directly on the skin for a bronzed tone or mixed into foundation or moisturizer for a subtle glow.”—Neil Scibelli, celebrity makeup artist

Experts Say

“Bronzing drops are a concentrated liquid bronzer that can be applied directly on the skin for a bronzed tone or mixed into foundation or moisturizer for a subtle glow.”—Neil Scibelli, celebrity makeup artist

I have been warming up my skin with 12 bronzing products over the past year — mixing brownish, shimmery liquids into dozens of moisturizers. sunscreens, and foundations to see which ones left me with the most natural-looking tan.

Below, read all about the 11 that are worth buying, from $6 to $38.

Best Overall:Drunk Elephant D-Bronzi Anti-Pollution Sunshine Drops at Amazon$39Jump to Review

Best Overall:Drunk Elephant D-Bronzi Anti-Pollution Sunshine Drops at Amazon$39

Best Overall:

Best Under $10:Essence Magic Filter Glow Booster at Amazon$6Jump to Review

Best Under $10:Essence Magic Filter Glow Booster at Amazon$6

Best Under $10:

Best Moisturizer:SALEL’Oréal Paris True Match Lumi Glotion at Amazon$17$14Jump to Review

Best Moisturizer:SALEL’Oréal Paris True Match Lumi Glotion at Amazon$17$14

Best Moisturizer:

SALE

Best for Acne-Prone Skin:Saltyface Liquid Bronzer at Saltyface.comJump to Review

Best for Acne-Prone Skin:Saltyface Liquid Bronzer at Saltyface.com

Best for Acne-Prone Skin:

Best for Mature Skin:SALEVersed Glow Drops at Amazon$15$10Jump to Review

Best for Mature Skin:SALEVersed Glow Drops at Amazon$15$10

Best for Mature Skin:

Best Shade Range:Morphe Hot Shot Sun Drops at Ulta$16Jump to Review

Best Shade Range:Morphe Hot Shot Sun Drops at Ulta$16

Best Shade Range:

Best Makeup Base:Saie Super Glowy Gel at Amazon$16Jump to Review

Best Makeup Base:Saie Super Glowy Gel at Amazon$16

Best Makeup Base:

Best Glow:Cover Fx Custom Bronzer Drops at Amazon$20Jump to Review

Best Glow:Cover Fx Custom Bronzer Drops at Amazon$20

Best Glow:

Most Buildable:

Best Drugstore:e.l.f. Cosmetics Bronzing Drops at Amazon$12Jump to Review

Best Drugstore:e.l.f. Cosmetics Bronzing Drops at Amazon$12

Best Drugstore:

Best OverallDrunk Elephant D-Bronzi Anti-Pollution Sunshine DropsPHOTO: Ulta$39$34 at Amazon$39 at Sephora$39 at UltaStar QualitiesWarm, gold-flecked formula looks natural every timeFortified with skincare benefitsFree from unnecessary fillers or pore-cloggersRed FlagsOnly one shadeHighest price on our listThe Drunk Elephant D-Bronzi Drops are a tried-and-true favorite thatsent the internet into a bronzing frenzyand keeps us coming back for more. Not only is this glowy formula the secret to an instant tan (no sunburns or self-tan stickiness necessary), it also includes several skin-loving ingredients like cocoa extract, peptide blends, and chronocyclin (a vitamin D-mimicking peptide) that fortifies and elasticizes the skin barrier.I mixed a few drops of this product into just about everything — sunscreens, serums, moisturizers, and foundations — and the formula played nicely each time, leaving a warm glow across my skin. But while I can sing many praises for this bronzer in a bottle, I wish the brand offered deeper shades for a wider range of skin tones and wasn’t as pricey.Shades:1 |Key Ingredients:Cocoa extract, peptide blend, chronocyclin, white tea extract |Size:1 fluid ounce |Skin Benefits:Reduces appearance of fine lines, soothes, promotes elasticityPHOTO: People / Alyssa BrasciaPHOTO: People / Alyssa Brascia

Best OverallDrunk Elephant D-Bronzi Anti-Pollution Sunshine DropsPHOTO: Ulta$39$34 at Amazon$39 at Sephora$39 at Ulta

Best OverallDrunk Elephant D-Bronzi Anti-Pollution Sunshine Drops

Best Overall

Drunk Elephant D-Bronzi Anti-Pollution Sunshine Drops

PHOTO: Ulta

$39$34 at Amazon$39 at Sephora$39 at Ulta

Star QualitiesWarm, gold-flecked formula looks natural every timeFortified with skincare benefitsFree from unnecessary fillers or pore-cloggersRed FlagsOnly one shadeHighest price on our list

Star QualitiesWarm, gold-flecked formula looks natural every timeFortified with skincare benefitsFree from unnecessary fillers or pore-cloggers

Warm, gold-flecked formula looks natural every time

Fortified with skincare benefits

Free from unnecessary fillers or pore-cloggers

Red FlagsOnly one shadeHighest price on our list

Only one shade

Highest price on our list

The Drunk Elephant D-Bronzi Drops are a tried-and-true favorite thatsent the internet into a bronzing frenzyand keeps us coming back for more. Not only is this glowy formula the secret to an instant tan (no sunburns or self-tan stickiness necessary), it also includes several skin-loving ingredients like cocoa extract, peptide blends, and chronocyclin (a vitamin D-mimicking peptide) that fortifies and elasticizes the skin barrier.

I mixed a few drops of this product into just about everything — sunscreens, serums, moisturizers, and foundations — and the formula played nicely each time, leaving a warm glow across my skin. But while I can sing many praises for this bronzer in a bottle, I wish the brand offered deeper shades for a wider range of skin tones and wasn’t as pricey.

Shades:1 |Key Ingredients:Cocoa extract, peptide blend, chronocyclin, white tea extract |Size:1 fluid ounce |Skin Benefits:Reduces appearance of fine lines, soothes, promotes elasticity

PHOTO: People / Alyssa BrasciaPHOTO: People / Alyssa Brascia

Best Under $10Essence Magic Filter Glow BoosterPHOTO: Amazon$6 at Amazon$6 at UltaStar QualitiesLeaves a healthy-looking glowBronze without being muddyRed FlagsHas a slight smellYou may think a realistic, bottled glow means a high price tag, but this potion from Essence Cosmetics proves otherwise. This “glow booster” can be worn alone for a sunkissed look or mixed into your daily face moisturizer or foundation for a hint of color — and it’s only $6. I like that this product offers more shades than many others do, providing options that look natural on fair to deep skin tones. There is a bit of a smell that took some getting used to, but it’s not a dealbreaker considering the easy-to-blend formula and lit-from-within finish.Shades:7 |Key Ingredients:Glycerin, castor seed oil |Size:0.47 fluid ounces |Skin Benefits:Conceals redness, illuminatesPHOTO: People / Alyssa BrasciaPHOTO: People / Alyssa Brascia

Best Under $10Essence Magic Filter Glow BoosterPHOTO: Amazon$6 at Amazon$6 at Ulta

Best Under $10Essence Magic Filter Glow Booster

Best Under $10

Essence Magic Filter Glow Booster

PHOTO: Amazon

$6 at Amazon$6 at Ulta

Star QualitiesLeaves a healthy-looking glowBronze without being muddyRed FlagsHas a slight smell

Star QualitiesLeaves a healthy-looking glowBronze without being muddy

Leaves a healthy-looking glow

Bronze without being muddy

Red FlagsHas a slight smell

Has a slight smell

You may think a realistic, bottled glow means a high price tag, but this potion from Essence Cosmetics proves otherwise. This “glow booster” can be worn alone for a sunkissed look or mixed into your daily face moisturizer or foundation for a hint of color — and it’s only $6. I like that this product offers more shades than many others do, providing options that look natural on fair to deep skin tones. There is a bit of a smell that took some getting used to, but it’s not a dealbreaker considering the easy-to-blend formula and lit-from-within finish.

Shades:7 |Key Ingredients:Glycerin, castor seed oil |Size:0.47 fluid ounces |Skin Benefits:Conceals redness, illuminates

Best MoisturizerL’Oréal Paris True Match Lumi GlotionPHOTO: Ulta$17$14 at Amazon$14 at Target$16$14 at WalmartStar QualitiesSuitable for all skin typesComes in several shadesProvides all-day hydrationRed FlagsNo complaints hereThe L’Oreal Paris True Match Lumi Glotion is an all-in-one moisturizer and bronzer, with celebrity accolades to boot:Martha Stewart, Eva Longoria, andKendall Jennerall wear this budget-friendly glow enhancer in their daily lives and evento the Oscars. This hydrating formula kept my skin looking and feeling bouncy all day long, with a youthful glow that fared well as a base for my makeup and as a standalone on my skin. It offers several shades and wears beautifully on all skin types. Its ability to smooth over dry patches without settling into fine lines makes it a great option for mature skin.Shades:5 |Key Ingredients:Glycerin, shea butter |Size:1.35 fluid ounces |Skin Benefits:HydratingPHOTO: People / Alyssa BrasciaPHOTO: People / Alyssa Brascia

Best MoisturizerL’Oréal Paris True Match Lumi GlotionPHOTO: Ulta$17$14 at Amazon$14 at Target$16$14 at Walmart

Best MoisturizerL’Oréal Paris True Match Lumi Glotion

Best Moisturizer

L’Oréal Paris True Match Lumi Glotion

$17$14 at Amazon$14 at Target$16$14 at Walmart

Star QualitiesSuitable for all skin typesComes in several shadesProvides all-day hydrationRed FlagsNo complaints here

Star QualitiesSuitable for all skin typesComes in several shadesProvides all-day hydration

Suitable for all skin types

Comes in several shades

Provides all-day hydration

Red FlagsNo complaints here

No complaints here

The L’Oreal Paris True Match Lumi Glotion is an all-in-one moisturizer and bronzer, with celebrity accolades to boot:Martha Stewart, Eva Longoria, andKendall Jennerall wear this budget-friendly glow enhancer in their daily lives and evento the Oscars. This hydrating formula kept my skin looking and feeling bouncy all day long, with a youthful glow that fared well as a base for my makeup and as a standalone on my skin. It offers several shades and wears beautifully on all skin types. Its ability to smooth over dry patches without settling into fine lines makes it a great option for mature skin.

Shades:5 |Key Ingredients:Glycerin, shea butter |Size:1.35 fluid ounces |Skin Benefits:Hydrating

Best for Acne-Prone SkinSaltyface Liquid BronzerPHOTO: SaltyfaceView on Saltyface.comStar QualitiesSafe for all skin typesLightweight consistency that’s easy to blendIngredients brighten skin over timeRed FlagsOnly one shadeIf you’re someone who breaks out easily, it can be daunting to add an unfamiliar product into your routine. Fear not: This liquid bronzer from Saltyface is more than just an instant tanner; it’s skincare. Its formula is fortified with hyaluronic acid to smooth and hydrate, niacinamide to brighten and even skin tone, aloe for environmental stressor protection, and chamomile to calm redness and acne. Plus, the cocoa-colored liquid blended beautifully with every product I mashed it with, producing a natural glow that had my friends asking how I looked so tan — all without causing blemishes, irritation, or redness.Shades:1 |Key Ingredients:Hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, aloe, chamomile |Size:1 fluid ounce |Skin Benefits:Brightens, moisturizes, reduces dark spotsPeople / Alyssa Brascia

Best for Acne-Prone SkinSaltyface Liquid BronzerPHOTO: SaltyfaceView on Saltyface.com

Best for Acne-Prone SkinSaltyface Liquid Bronzer

Best for Acne-Prone Skin

Saltyface Liquid Bronzer

PHOTO: Saltyface

View on Saltyface.com

Star QualitiesSafe for all skin typesLightweight consistency that’s easy to blendIngredients brighten skin over timeRed FlagsOnly one shade

Star QualitiesSafe for all skin typesLightweight consistency that’s easy to blendIngredients brighten skin over time

Safe for all skin types

Lightweight consistency that’s easy to blend

Ingredients brighten skin over time

Red FlagsOnly one shade

If you’re someone who breaks out easily, it can be daunting to add an unfamiliar product into your routine. Fear not: This liquid bronzer from Saltyface is more than just an instant tanner; it’s skincare. Its formula is fortified with hyaluronic acid to smooth and hydrate, niacinamide to brighten and even skin tone, aloe for environmental stressor protection, and chamomile to calm redness and acne. Plus, the cocoa-colored liquid blended beautifully with every product I mashed it with, producing a natural glow that had my friends asking how I looked so tan — all without causing blemishes, irritation, or redness.

Shades:1 |Key Ingredients:Hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, aloe, chamomile |Size:1 fluid ounce |Skin Benefits:Brightens, moisturizes, reduces dark spots

Best for Mature SkinVersed Glow DropsPHOTO: Versed$15$10 at Amazon$16 at TargetView on Versedskin.comStar QualitiesDidn’t settle into fine lines or wrinklesHydrated my skin all day longNon-streaky, soft-focus finishRed FlagsLimited shade rangeYou don’t have to be a Sephora-shopping tween to get your hands on good bronzing drops. This glowy formula is specifically made to plump and hydrate your skin without settling into fine lines — a perk formature beauty lovers.While I wish there were more shades to choose from, the darkest shade, Sheer Bronzed, was easy to build in coverage and color and offered a radiant-looking finish. The super-fine, light-reflecting pigments made my complexion look healthy, not oily, and would provide a glowy finish on deeper skin tones — just not as much of a bronze. But if you want to find a goodliquid blushorgolden highlighter, this product has shades for those, too. (In fact, these are the ones I’d buy if I couldn’t get my hands on the Drunk Elephant drops.)Shades:3 |Key Ingredients:Polyglutamic acid, blackberry extract, vitamin E |Size:1 fluid ounce |Skin Benefits:Hydrates, protects, moisturizesPHOTO: People / Alyssa BrasciaPHOTO: People / Alyssa Brascia

Best for Mature SkinVersed Glow DropsPHOTO: Versed$15$10 at Amazon$16 at TargetView on Versedskin.com

Best for Mature SkinVersed Glow Drops

Best for Mature Skin

Versed Glow Drops

PHOTO: Versed

$15$10 at Amazon$16 at TargetView on Versedskin.com

Star QualitiesDidn’t settle into fine lines or wrinklesHydrated my skin all day longNon-streaky, soft-focus finishRed FlagsLimited shade range

Star QualitiesDidn’t settle into fine lines or wrinklesHydrated my skin all day longNon-streaky, soft-focus finish

Didn’t settle into fine lines or wrinkles

Hydrated my skin all day long

Non-streaky, soft-focus finish

Red FlagsLimited shade range

Limited shade range

You don’t have to be a Sephora-shopping tween to get your hands on good bronzing drops. This glowy formula is specifically made to plump and hydrate your skin without settling into fine lines — a perk formature beauty lovers.

While I wish there were more shades to choose from, the darkest shade, Sheer Bronzed, was easy to build in coverage and color and offered a radiant-looking finish. The super-fine, light-reflecting pigments made my complexion look healthy, not oily, and would provide a glowy finish on deeper skin tones — just not as much of a bronze. But if you want to find a goodliquid blushorgolden highlighter, this product has shades for those, too. (In fact, these are the ones I’d buy if I couldn’t get my hands on the Drunk Elephant drops.)

Shades:3 |Key Ingredients:Polyglutamic acid, blackberry extract, vitamin E |Size:1 fluid ounce |Skin Benefits:Hydrates, protects, moisturizes

Best Shade RangeMorphe Hot Shot Sun DropsPHOTO: Ulta$16 at UltaView on Morphe.comStar QualitiesSuitable for deeper skin tonesBest value for the price-to-size ratioHydrating and soothingRed FlagsDoesn’t give off as much glow as othersSome brands struggle with shade range inclusivity, but Morphe is not one of them. With six shades that range from light bronze to deep cocoa, it only takes a few drops of this pigmented formula (mixed with a base) to get a buildable, warm look on fair to deep skin. Though it lacked a glowy effect, it was more wearable for day-to-day, and left my skin looking very healthy.The feather-light formula felt nearly weightless and played well with makeup. Plus, it provided ample hydration thanks to a slew of vitamins and moisture complexes, including niacinamide, glycerin, and natural algae, in its ingredients list. Best of all, this option has the most travel-friendly packaging while holding the most amount of product on this list.Shades:6 |Key Ingredients:Niacinamide, glycerin, natural algae, vitamin E, vitamin B5 |Size:2.32 fluid ounces |Skin Benefits:Hydrates, soothes dryness, smoothes texture, protects skinPHOTO: People / Alyssa BrasciaPHOTO: People / Alyssa Brascia

Best Shade RangeMorphe Hot Shot Sun DropsPHOTO: Ulta$16 at UltaView on Morphe.com

Best Shade RangeMorphe Hot Shot Sun Drops

Best Shade Range

Morphe Hot Shot Sun Drops

$16 at UltaView on Morphe.com

Star QualitiesSuitable for deeper skin tonesBest value for the price-to-size ratioHydrating and soothingRed FlagsDoesn’t give off as much glow as others

Star QualitiesSuitable for deeper skin tonesBest value for the price-to-size ratioHydrating and soothing

Suitable for deeper skin tones

Best value for the price-to-size ratio

Hydrating and soothing

Red FlagsDoesn’t give off as much glow as others

Doesn’t give off as much glow as others

Some brands struggle with shade range inclusivity, but Morphe is not one of them. With six shades that range from light bronze to deep cocoa, it only takes a few drops of this pigmented formula (mixed with a base) to get a buildable, warm look on fair to deep skin. Though it lacked a glowy effect, it was more wearable for day-to-day, and left my skin looking very healthy.

The feather-light formula felt nearly weightless and played well with makeup. Plus, it provided ample hydration thanks to a slew of vitamins and moisture complexes, including niacinamide, glycerin, and natural algae, in its ingredients list. Best of all, this option has the most travel-friendly packaging while holding the most amount of product on this list.

Shades:6 |Key Ingredients:Niacinamide, glycerin, natural algae, vitamin E, vitamin B5 |Size:2.32 fluid ounces |Skin Benefits:Hydrates, soothes dryness, smoothes texture, protects skin

Best Makeup BaseSaie Super Glowy GelPHOTO: Saie$16 at Amazon$16 at Sephora$20 at WalmartStar QualitiesWeightless feelEasy to blend with various productsWorks well as a base or on its ownRed FlagsOnly one bronzer shadeMuch like the Versed Glow Drops, the Saie Glowy Super Gel comes in bronze, highlight, and blush-pink shades — though I warmed up my skin with the darkest hue, Sunglow, for a touch of faux sun. I couldn’t get enough of how plump and healthy this gel made my skin look, and whether I was wearing this glowy product alone or mixing it with various lotions and potions, its hydrating formula never made my skin look streaky, orange, or muddy. My foundation and concealer layered nicely on top without picking up the product or pilling, making this the perfect base for a makeup routine.Shades:3 |Key Ingredients:Glycerin, squalane, papaya seed oil, rosehip oil |Size:1 fluid ounce |Skin Benefits:Hydrates, brightens, smoothesPHOTO: People / Alyssa BrasciaPHOTO: People / Alyssa Brascia

Best Makeup BaseSaie Super Glowy GelPHOTO: Saie$16 at Amazon$16 at Sephora$20 at Walmart

Best Makeup BaseSaie Super Glowy Gel

Best Makeup Base

Saie Super Glowy Gel

PHOTO: Saie

$16 at Amazon$16 at Sephora$20 at Walmart

Star QualitiesWeightless feelEasy to blend with various productsWorks well as a base or on its ownRed FlagsOnly one bronzer shade

Star QualitiesWeightless feelEasy to blend with various productsWorks well as a base or on its own

Weightless feel

Easy to blend with various products

Works well as a base or on its own

Red FlagsOnly one bronzer shade

Only one bronzer shade

Much like the Versed Glow Drops, the Saie Glowy Super Gel comes in bronze, highlight, and blush-pink shades — though I warmed up my skin with the darkest hue, Sunglow, for a touch of faux sun. I couldn’t get enough of how plump and healthy this gel made my skin look, and whether I was wearing this glowy product alone or mixing it with various lotions and potions, its hydrating formula never made my skin look streaky, orange, or muddy. My foundation and concealer layered nicely on top without picking up the product or pilling, making this the perfect base for a makeup routine.

Shades:3 |Key Ingredients:Glycerin, squalane, papaya seed oil, rosehip oil |Size:1 fluid ounce |Skin Benefits:Hydrates, brightens, smoothes

Best GlowCover Fx Custom Bronzer DropsPHOTO: Amazon$20 at AmazonStar QualitiesExtremely radiant finishWarm bronze hueEasy to blendRed FlagsNot super hydratingMade from a blend of potent light-reflecting pigments, this liquid looks like molten gold when applied to your skin. I only needed a few drops in my tinted moisturizer to add an extra dose of shimmer, and I even tried blending the product directly onto my cheekbones for a radiant bronze. While it lacks the skincare benefits found in other formulas, it absolutely delivers a glow.Shades:2 |Key Ingredients:Mica, dimethicone, caprylyl methicone |Size:0.30 fluid ounces |Skin Benefits:IlluminatesPHOTO: People / Alyssa BrasciaPHOTO: People / Alyssa Brascia

Best GlowCover Fx Custom Bronzer DropsPHOTO: Amazon$20 at Amazon

Best GlowCover Fx Custom Bronzer Drops

Best Glow

Cover Fx Custom Bronzer Drops

$20 at Amazon

Star QualitiesExtremely radiant finishWarm bronze hueEasy to blendRed FlagsNot super hydrating

Star QualitiesExtremely radiant finishWarm bronze hueEasy to blend

Extremely radiant finish

Warm bronze hue

Easy to blend

Red FlagsNot super hydrating

Not super hydrating

Made from a blend of potent light-reflecting pigments, this liquid looks like molten gold when applied to your skin. I only needed a few drops in my tinted moisturizer to add an extra dose of shimmer, and I even tried blending the product directly onto my cheekbones for a radiant bronze. While it lacks the skincare benefits found in other formulas, it absolutely delivers a glow.

Shades:2 |Key Ingredients:Mica, dimethicone, caprylyl methicone |Size:0.30 fluid ounces |Skin Benefits:Illuminates

Most Buildable

PHOTO: Sephora

Star QualitiesHealthy, radiant finishDual-ended applicatorSeveral shades to choose fromRed FlagsOn the pricey side

Star QualitiesHealthy, radiant finishDual-ended applicatorSeveral shades to choose from

Healthy, radiant finish

Dual-ended applicator

Several shades to choose from

Red FlagsOn the pricey side

On the pricey side

Whether you’re going for a soft glow or a bronzy contour, you can integrate this versatile product into your routine. Its sheer, shimmer-flecked formula can be worn alone for a wash of color and applied directly to the high points of your face to generate some faux sun. I like using the pump to mix a few drops into my moisturizer, but you can also unscrew the cap to reveal a wand applicator, which makes precise placement much easier.

Blending this product with a brush made my “tan” look effortless and helped build coverage where I wanted it most — along my cheekbones, temples, and jawline — a slam-dunk for anyone who wants to cut out the contour step in their makeup routines. While it’s on the more expensive side, the double applicator, as well as the buildable and hydrating formula, make this purchase well worth it.

Shades:7 |Key Ingredients:Hyaluronic acid, vitamin E |Size:1.01 fluid ounces |Skin Benefits:Hydrates, nourishes

Best Drugstoree.l.f. Cosmetics Bronzing DropsPHOTO: e.l.f.$12 at Amazon$12 at Target$12 at WalmartStar QualitiesGood for all skin typesEasy to blendNon-streaky formulaRed FlagsNone we can think ofThese drops are some of the easiest to get your hands on when shopping, and they were some of the most weightless that I tried, too. Formulated with a nourishing cocktail of vitamin E and sunflower seed oil that moisturized and softened my skin, this serum-like bronzer felt lighter than air when applied.The drops also happen to be a favorite of Scibelli’s, who keeps coming back to these as the months pass on. “I keep reaching for E.l.f’s bronzing drops — they come in three buildable shades, they don’t contain any visible pigments of shimmer, but they give the skin a healthy bronzed glow,” he says. “They’re also an affordable option and easy to apply.”Shades:3 |Key Ingredients:Vitamin E, sunflower seed oil |Size:1 fluid ounce |Skin Benefits:Moisturizes, nourishes, softensPHOTO: People / Alyssa BrasciaPHOTO: People / Alyssa Brascia

Best Drugstoree.l.f. Cosmetics Bronzing DropsPHOTO: e.l.f.$12 at Amazon$12 at Target$12 at Walmart

Best Drugstoree.l.f. Cosmetics Bronzing Drops

Best Drugstore

e.l.f. Cosmetics Bronzing Drops

PHOTO: e.l.f.

$12 at Amazon$12 at Target$12 at Walmart

Star QualitiesGood for all skin typesEasy to blendNon-streaky formulaRed FlagsNone we can think of

Star QualitiesGood for all skin typesEasy to blendNon-streaky formula

Good for all skin types

Non-streaky formula

Red FlagsNone we can think of

None we can think of

These drops are some of the easiest to get your hands on when shopping, and they were some of the most weightless that I tried, too. Formulated with a nourishing cocktail of vitamin E and sunflower seed oil that moisturized and softened my skin, this serum-like bronzer felt lighter than air when applied.

The drops also happen to be a favorite of Scibelli’s, who keeps coming back to these as the months pass on. “I keep reaching for E.l.f’s bronzing drops — they come in three buildable shades, they don’t contain any visible pigments of shimmer, but they give the skin a healthy bronzed glow,” he says. “They’re also an affordable option and easy to apply.”

Shades:3 |Key Ingredients:Vitamin E, sunflower seed oil |Size:1 fluid ounce |Skin Benefits:Moisturizes, nourishes, softens

Best Color-CorrectingIsle of Paradise Isle of Paradise Sunny Serum Instant Face BronzerPHOTO: Isle of Paradise$24 at SephoraView on Theisleofparadise.com$24 at Kohls.comStar QualitiesRadiant glow shines through makeupBuildable colorEvens hyperpigmentation and rednessRed FlagsBulky packagingBronzer can sometimes accentuate dark spots, but that’s not the case with the Isle of Paradise Sunny Serum. Famous for its self-tanning products, this brand knows a thing or two about skin tone shape-shifting. When blended with my moisturizer or sunscreen, this bronzer was able to make my rosacea and dark circle-prone skin look even and smooth.Its golden formula is loaded with light-reflecting pigments, which leave a soft glow that emanates through a face of makeup or gives you an ethereal radiance when worn with moisturizer alone. The bulky packaging takes up more room than a 1-ounce product should (and doesn’t pack easily), however, I’ll overlook that considering the intensely glowy, balanced, and nourished skin I got from this product.Shades:1 |Key Ingredients:Niacinamide, squalane, jojoba oil |Size:1.01 fluid ounces |Skin Benefits:Conceals redness, evens skin tone, hydrates, nourishesPHOTO: People / Alyssa BrasciaPHOTO: People / Alyssa Brascia

Best Color-CorrectingIsle of Paradise Isle of Paradise Sunny Serum Instant Face BronzerPHOTO: Isle of Paradise$24 at SephoraView on Theisleofparadise.com$24 at Kohls.com

Best Color-CorrectingIsle of Paradise Isle of Paradise Sunny Serum Instant Face Bronzer

Best Color-Correcting

Isle of Paradise Isle of Paradise Sunny Serum Instant Face Bronzer

PHOTO: Isle of Paradise

$24 at SephoraView on Theisleofparadise.com$24 at Kohls.com

Star QualitiesRadiant glow shines through makeupBuildable colorEvens hyperpigmentation and rednessRed FlagsBulky packaging

Star QualitiesRadiant glow shines through makeupBuildable colorEvens hyperpigmentation and redness

Radiant glow shines through makeup

Buildable color

Evens hyperpigmentation and redness

Red FlagsBulky packaging

Bulky packaging

Bronzer can sometimes accentuate dark spots, but that’s not the case with the Isle of Paradise Sunny Serum. Famous for its self-tanning products, this brand knows a thing or two about skin tone shape-shifting. When blended with my moisturizer or sunscreen, this bronzer was able to make my rosacea and dark circle-prone skin look even and smooth.

Its golden formula is loaded with light-reflecting pigments, which leave a soft glow that emanates through a face of makeup or gives you an ethereal radiance when worn with moisturizer alone. The bulky packaging takes up more room than a 1-ounce product should (and doesn’t pack easily), however, I’ll overlook that considering the intensely glowy, balanced, and nourished skin I got from this product.

Shades:1 |Key Ingredients:Niacinamide, squalane, jojoba oil |Size:1.01 fluid ounces |Skin Benefits:Conceals redness, evens skin tone, hydrates, nourishes

While you’re shopping for bronzing drops, consider adding the following PEOPLE-Tested favorites to your cart. We’ve dubbed them winners for their respective beauty and skincare categories, so we feel confident you’ll love them.

St. Tropez Luxe Tan Tonic Glow Drops$42 at Amazon$42 at Nordstrom$42 at UltaEmbryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré$17 at Amazon$17 at Dermstore$17 at Ecosmetics.comAnastasia Beverly Hills Magic Touch Concealer$29 at Amazon$29 at Nordstrom$29 at SephoraMary Kay Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover$24$21 at AmazonView on Marykay.com

St. Tropez Luxe Tan Tonic Glow Drops$42 at Amazon$42 at Nordstrom$42 at Ulta

St. Tropez Luxe Tan Tonic Glow Drops

$42 at Amazon$42 at Nordstrom$42 at Ulta

Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré$17 at Amazon$17 at Dermstore$17 at Ecosmetics.com

Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré

$17 at Amazon$17 at Dermstore$17 at Ecosmetics.com

Anastasia Beverly Hills Magic Touch Concealer$29 at Amazon$29 at Nordstrom$29 at Sephora

Anastasia Beverly Hills Magic Touch Concealer

$29 at Amazon$29 at Nordstrom$29 at Sephora

Mary Kay Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover$24$21 at AmazonView on Marykay.com

Mary Kay Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover

$24$21 at AmazonView on Marykay.com

Iconic London Instant Sunshine Bronzing Drops: True to its medical-looking packaging, this serum is a shot of sunshine for your skin. I loved how glowy my face and body looked when I blended this formula into my favorite skin products, but it produced a less natural tan than what I observed with the other formulas I tested. Its elaborate packaging also made it hard to add to my makeup bag despite only holding 0.43 fluid ounces — less than most of the winners above.

What to Know About Bronzing Drops

Finish

Several things are true about these instant tanners: they consist of a liquid or gel-like formula, they (usually) come in a concentrated form that is meant to be diluted, and they provide an immediate bronze that can be washed away with water and cleanser at the end of the day. But what differs across the board is the finish of your product.

“Bronzing drops can offer hydrating properties and come in different finishes (with and without shimmer),” says Scibelli. “[They] can give a radiant glow to the skin, and the liquid formula typically binds to the skin easier than powders, for a more skin-like finish.”

Most liquid bronzers, likeCover FX Bronzer Drops, leave a radiant glow on your skin, but this isn’t the case every time. This dewy look is often a result of mica powder, light-reflecting pigments, or pearls in the formula, which help give your skin an artificial radiance in addition to any hydrating benefits the formula might have.

Celebrity makeup artistDani Parkesprefers to stay away from formulas that are too shimmery. “If the product has flakes in it, then I avoid it so I don’t have glitter spots on my skin,” Parkes explains. Scibelli has a similar approach, as drops with too much shimmer “can get too shiny, especially in photos or [on] oily skin.”

Finish Terms to KnowRadiant/Glowy:Creates the illusion of dewy, moisturized skin; no noticeable shimmer flakesShimmer:Offers a higher-shine look, courtesy of mica powder and light-reflecting pearlsMatte:Doesn’t reflect light, often seen in more buildable formulas

Finish Terms to Know

Radiant/Glowy:Creates the illusion of dewy, moisturized skin; no noticeable shimmer flakesShimmer:Offers a higher-shine look, courtesy of mica powder and light-reflecting pearlsMatte:Doesn’t reflect light, often seen in more buildable formulas

Application

“I find some bronzing drops are hard to apply directly to your face because they don’t blend well, [so] I like mixing them into my moisturizer,” says Parkes. “Adding one to two drops to your moisturizer during skin prep is the best way to add them into your makeup routine.”

Formula

“I think buildable formulas are ideal for everyday makeup wearers, so that you can control the intensity of the bronze depending on your preference and makeup look for the day,” says Scibelli.

Products that are a bit more potent, like the Drunk Elephant orMorphe drops, are easier to layer in order to get a deeper, more sculpted look.L’Oreal Lumi Glotion, a sheer tinted moisturizer, offers a slip of color that can’t be intensified with more layers (without getting thick and goopy).

To find the best bronzing drops among the golden sea of them, I tested as many as I could (12, to be exact) and, finding no real faults with any of them, assessed their qualities to discern which product you should buy for your specific skin concerns and goals.

While all of our winners hit the mark, our best overall, theDrunk Elephant D-Bronzi Anti-Pollution Sunshine Drops, made me come back for more almost every day. (I’m almost on bottle three now.)

Alyssa Brasciais a shopping writer at PEOPLE with a knack for beauty, having collected hundreds of products in the past year and practiced makeup on herself and others for 7 years. She has previously written for InStyle, Shape, Southern Living, Real Simple, and more. For this piece, Brascia personally collected and tested 12 bronzing drops over the past year, wearing one of these products every day to fake a tan while living in a mainly beach-less city. She also interviewed celebrity makeup artists for their expert insights into this specific kind of bronzer formula, their personal favorites, and what qualities shoppers should look for when picking the best product for them.

Our Expert PanelNeil Scibelliis a New York City-based celebrity makeup artist and on-air beauty expert with clients ranging from legendary supermodels to Grammy award-winning musicians. He is regularly seen as an expert on television shows includingToday With Hoda & JennaandGood Morning America.Dani Parkesis a celebrity makeup artist based in New York City with a slew of high-profile clientele, from two-time Olympian Suni Lee toGleealum Lea Michele. Her work has been spotted on the VMA’s red carpet,The Drew Barrymore Show, the cover ofSports Illustrated, and more.

Our Expert Panel

Neil Scibelliis a New York City-based celebrity makeup artist and on-air beauty expert with clients ranging from legendary supermodels to Grammy award-winning musicians. He is regularly seen as an expert on television shows includingToday With Hoda & JennaandGood Morning America.Dani Parkesis a celebrity makeup artist based in New York City with a slew of high-profile clientele, from two-time Olympian Suni Lee toGleealum Lea Michele. Her work has been spotted on the VMA’s red carpet,The Drew Barrymore Show, the cover ofSports Illustrated, and more.

We created thePEOPLE Tested seal of approvalto help you find the very best products for your life. We use our unique methodology to test products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers to determine their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and so much more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products so you can find the right one for your needs.

In short, PEOPLE Tested provides recommendations you can trust — every day, every purchase.

source: people.com