How To Use Tanning Drops For A Natural Glow

Let’s talk about tanning drops for a second. You’ve probably seen them all over TikTok or on your friend’s bathroom counter and thought, Okay, what is that? How to use tanning drops? Do they actually work? Do I need them? Short answer: yes, they work, they’re super easy to use, and once you try them, you’ll wonder why you didn’t start sooner.

If you’re new to the self-tanning game or just tired of patchy lotions, tanning drops are a game changer. And the best part? You can mix them into your regular skincare — no mess, no fuss, no weird smells (well, barely).

What Are Tanning Drops, Really?

Tanning drops are like liquid gold — not in the flashy sense, but in the “makes your skin look like it had a mini holiday” sense. They’re these little bottles filled with concentrated self-tanner that you mix with your daily moisturiser. A few drops and boom — your skin starts to look warmer, glowier, and kinda like you’ve just come back from a beach weekend.

You don’t need to change your skincare routine. Just add them in and let the glow happen.

How Do Tanning Drops Work?

Alright, so how do tanning drops work?

It’s all down to this ingredient called DHA (you don’t have to memorise that — no test at the end, promise). Basically, DHA reacts with the top layer of your skin — specifically the amino acids on dead skin cells — and that’s what gives you that golden colour.

It’s not makeup. It’s not dye. It’s more like a chemical reaction that gives your skin a bit of tan without the sun.

You’ll start to see the results in a few hours. Some people say they wake up looking bronzed after applying before bed. Others notice the glow by the end of the day. It’s different for everyone, but it works. Really.

Are Tanning Drops Safe?

This is probably the question most people think first: are tanning drops safe?

And look — totally fair. You’re putting something on your face that changes the way your skin looks. That can sound weird.

But the good news is: yes, they’re generally considered safe. DHA has been used in self-tanners for years and doesn’t actually go deep into your skin. It stays on the surface, where it reacts with dead skin cells. So you’re not soaking anything into your bloodstream or anything sketchy like that.

Still, if you’ve got sensitive skin, patch test. Always. A little on your wrist or jawline before going full face. Better safe than splotchy, right?

Also — and this is important — tanning drops don’t have sunscreen. You still need SPF every single day. Just because your skin looks tanned doesn’t mean it’s protected.

How To Use Tanning Drops (Without Screwing It Up)

Alright. Let’s get to the good stuff. Here’s how to actually use face tanning drops the right way. And hey, it’s easier than making coffee.

Step 1: Clean Skin

Start with clean, dry skin. If you’ve just washed your face, pat it dry and give it a minute to fully dry before doing anything else.

Step 2: Exfoliate (If You Can)

Don’t overthink this. If you’ve got a gentle scrub or exfoliating toner, use it the night before. It helps the tan go on smoother. But it’s not a must every time.

Step 3: Mix The Drops

Grab your favourite moisturiser — whatever you already use is fine. Squeeze out the usual amount into your hand. Now add your tanning drops.

• 2 drops = light glow
• 3–4 drops = medium tan
• 5+ = beach goddess

Start small the first time. You can always go deeper next time.

Mix it together in your palm with your finger, then apply it like your regular moisturiser. Rub it in evenly. Don’t forget your neck and jawline — otherwise, you’ll end up with a tanned face floating over a pale neck. Trust me, it’s not cute.

Step 4: Wash Your Hands

Seriously. Wash them right after. You don’t want tanned palms — they’re always the giveaway.

Step 5: Let It Do Its Thing

Give it about 10–15 minutes to soak in before adding makeup or sunscreen. Some people use it at night and wake up with a perfect glow. Others do it in the morning and see it come through by lunch. It’s chill either way.

How Often Should You Use Tanning Drops?

Every few days is enough. Two to three times a week keeps the tan going strong. You can use fewer drops if you just want to maintain the colour.

They fade gently — no weird patches or tiger stripes. You’ll just notice the glow getting softer, not flaking off.

Can You Use Tanning Drops On Your Body?

Yes! Some drops are made specifically for the body, but even regular drops work if you just use more. Same method: mix with body lotion and apply. Just go light on elbows, knees, and ankles — they soak up more product and can go darker.

Pro tip: If you’re doing full-body, get someone to help with your back. Or use a mitt. Otherwise, you’ll end up with a streak down the middle. Not the look we’re going for.

Tips From People Who’ve Tried It (A Lot)

• Less is more. Always start with fewer drops your first time.
• Avoid oil-based products after tanning — they can make it fade quicker.
• Moisturise daily to keep your skin hydrated and your tan smooth.
• Keep your hair out of your face during application — you don’t want tanned baby hairs.
• Don’t forget your ears! Seriously, they stick out more than you think.

Face Tanning Drops Vs. Regular Self-Tanner

Let’s be honest. A lot of traditional self-tanners are… kinda intense. They smell weird, they stain your sheets, and they turn your knees orange. Face tanning drops? Way more chill.

They’re customisable, which means you’re not locked into one shade. They also fit into your skincare routine, so you’re not adding extra steps. Just drop, mix, glow.

Plus, most drops are made with skin-loving ingredients — like hyaluronic acid or vitamin C — so you’re getting some skincare benefits too.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it. A full breakdown of how to use tanning drops without any fancy nonsense. They’re easy, they’re safe for most people, and they let you control the glow without sun damage or drama.

You now know how do tanning drops work, what the deal is with face tanning drops, and can answer the biggie: are tanning drops safe — yes, they are.

If you’ve been curious but hesitant, just give it a try. It’s honestly fun. Kind of like a tiny skincare experiment with pretty awesome results. Worst case? It fades in a few days. Best case? People start asking if you just got back from vacation — and all you did was mix a few drops into your lotion.