If you're on a quest to be your glowiest self, the best bronzing drops are basically your IRL cheat code. Of course, you can book a vacation or slather yourself in self-tanner, but we understand those options are not for everyone. Hence this quick and instant solution in a bottle. Whether you want a subtle glow or a bronzed look that'll put the actual metal to shame, we found the best face drops for endlessly dewy vibes.
What do bronzing drops do?
In their most basic form, bronzing drops are pigmented drops that temporarily boost the warmth and glow of your natural complexion. "Bronzing drops are a lightweight, liquid bronzer that you can either add to your favorite moisturizer, serum, or foundation," says Florida-based makeup artist Allison Kaye. You can also wear them alone. Some bronzing drops have so much glow, that you'll want to apply them as a highlighter to the high points of your face or even on your body. Regardless of how you want to use it, we promise you'll love how these drops instantly warm up your complexion and give you a radiance like no other.
How do bronzing drops differ from tanning drops?
The main difference between the two is that bronzing drops are temporary and rinse down the drain once it's time to wash your face while tanning drops usually have a semi-permanent pigment. The latter relies on dihydroxyacetone (DHA), a sugar that safely darkens the skin. However, like many bronzing drops on the market, tanning drops especially made for the face usually contain nourishing ingredients like skin-plumping hyaluronic acid and glycerin for a dewier, more radiant finish.
How do I choose the right shade of bronzing drops for my skin tone?
Unlike contouring, which is meant to intensify the look of your face's natural angles, bronzing adds warmth and color to your skin. As a rule of thumb, your bronzer shouldn't be tangerine-level in warmth, but finding the right shade for you depends on your skin's natural tone. "Be sure to avoid bronzers that appear overly orange or red-toned in the pan, as it will only come across more intense when you apply it to the skin," New York City-based makeup artist Elisa Flowers previously told Allure.
Flowers said those with fair-to-medium skin tones should use a bronzer that's one or two shades darker than their natural skin tone and to always use a light hand when applying. People with tan, olive-toned skin can wear most bronzer shades as long as they don't stray too far from their natural skin color, but medium and fair skin tones should stick to neutral shades to avoid an orange finish. New York City-based makeup artist Ashunta Sheriff previously told Allure that those with dark and deep complexions will want to avoid bronzers without warm undertones because they will more than likely create an ashy effect when applied.
New York City-based makeup artist Jaleesa Jaikaran also adds that factors like blendability, pigmentation, and undertone are also important to consider when shopping for new bronzing drops for your skin tone. "Choosing the right shade of bronzing drops will take some trial, error and experimentation, but generally, you want to aim for a bronzer that is one or two shades darker than your natural skin tone and matches your undertone (cool, neutral, or warm) for a harmonious look," she says.
Here are our top picks:
Best Drugstore:
Ultimate Glow Booster with subtle hints of Bronzed goddess
Best Sheer Finish:
Best Shimmery Glow:
Best Luminous Finish:
Best Sheer Glowy Tint:
Best for Dry Skin:
The original article can be found on Allure US.
