10 best bronzing drops for the ultimate golden glow
Bronzing drops offer the best shortcut to a glowy, sun-kissed base – the kind that makes you look as though you've just returned from a holiday in the Caribbean. Stat. Particularly handy if you're not quite ready to commit to a fake tan yet, they serve a subtle and coveted “golden hour” glow (minus the sun damage).
TBH, I credit these makeup/skincare hybrid heroes whenever anyone complements my skin – more than I do my actual skincare products. I like to think of them as an undetectable yet game-changing touch that can elevate my complexion one drop at a time.
The beauty of bronzing drops is that they're incredibly versatile, too. You can easily wear them on a makeup-free day to add a bit of warmth and glow to your skin, mix them directly into your go-to moisturiser for a more natural look, or use them as a primer before applying foundation for that lit-from-within bronzed finish.
Most formulas are formulated with ingredients like niacinamide, vitamin C, glycerin, peptides and hyaluronic acid, so your skin will be well looked after as a bonus. And unlike face tanners, liquid bronzers work similar to a complexion makeup product, meaning they won't stain your skin. Rather, they're infused with saturated bronzing pigments such as iron oxide and mica that make the formula buildable, easy to blend and safe for your face.
To help you figure out which bronzing drops genuinely deliver, I've put together a comprehensive edit of 12 tried-and-true formulas that have become my personal favourites – all for different reasons. From affordable options and premium buys to cult classics and newer drops, this roundup covers everything you need to know, including expert tips from Gucci Westman, founder of Westman Atelier and renowned makeup artist.
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Meet the expert:
- Gucci Westman, founder of Westman Atelier and renowned makeup artist.
How I tested bronzing drops:
As someone who doesn't tan easily – and who's yet to find a tanning product that doesn't turn me orange – I've been relying on bronzing drops for as long as I can remember. They do a great job of evening out my skin tone and bringing my complexion to life – even on the days when I'm not wearing makeup. When I'm after a natural finish, all I do is simply prep a moisturiser/bronzing drop cocktail and slather it all over, and if I'm after a more dramatic finish, I apply them directly on the face (sometimes over makeup if I wanted to use them instead of a bronzer).
Still, it definitely took me a good while to find formulas that don't compromise on the quality. Sadly, some ended up breaking me out due to their comedogenic nature, and others dried down so quickly that they resulted in a patchy and uneven base. That said, I'm happy to report that over the years of testing, I've narrowed down my go-to formulas based on various criteria, including: a) the shade range; b) the consistency; c) the pigment; and d) application. I tested around 15 products, and included 10. Find out more about how we test here.
Keep reading to check out our full edit of all the best bronzing drops…
- Available shades: 1.
- Skincare ingredients: Omega-rich virgin marula and blackcurrant seed oils as well as vitamin F.
- Size: 30ml.
- Tested by: Denise Primbet
Why we love it: We don't need to tell you just how popular these bronzing drops are. Having taken TikTok by storm, the Drunk Elephant D-Bronzi need no introduction and deservedly so. Infused with the omega-rich virgin marula and blackcurrant seed oils as well as vitamin F (fatty acids), this product not only aims to give you the most gorgeous glow but also support a healthy skin barrier and protect it from the negative effects of environmental stressors.
“The serum-y consistency is perfect for mixing with a moisturiser or applying the product on its own. It gives my skin a perfect balance of pigment and shimmer, without being patchy or lifting off my makeup base. About the only con is the high price point,” says GLAMOUR’s freelance contributor Denise Primbet.
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- Available shades: 6.
- Skincare ingredients: Morphe's advanced moisture complex, algae blend and niacinamide.
- Size: 30ml.
- Tested by: Denise Primbet
Why we love it: Available in 6 shades in total, the Morphe Hot Shot Sun Drops offer an impressive range to suit a variety of skin tones – which is no mean feat considering that most bronzing drops come in one colour. Whether you decide to wear these over makeup as a subtle way to bronze up the skin or underneath to bring your complexion to live, this formula will also look after your skin in the process – all courtesy of ingredients like advanced moisture complex, algae blend and niacinamide.
Glow Hub Baby Beam Dew Filter Glow Base
- Available shades: 9.
- Skincare ingredients: Glycerin, hyaluronic acid and squalane.
- Size: 35ml.
- Tested by: Denise Primbet
Why we love it: Who said that good bronzing drops have to cost an arm and a half? This affordable — and hydrating, thanks to the addition of vitamin E and hyaluronic acid — drugstore option comes from a reputable brand, Baby Beam, which delivers yet again with a product which offers a radiant shimmer that'll make you seem as if you're glowing from within.
“As a beauty writer, I always applaud whenever a brand launches a product with an impressive shade range, and that's exactly why I really rate Glow Hub's Baby Beam Dew Filter, which comes in nine shades. Although it's not quite categorised as bronzing drops, I find that if you opt for a bronzing shade, you can easily mimic the same effect. They truly leave you looking as though you've just had a facial,” says GLAMOUR's freelance contributor Denise Primbet.
Makeup By Mario SoftSculpt Bronzing & Shaping Serum
- Available shades: 7.
- Skincare ingredients: hyaluronic acid and vitamin E.
- Size: 30ml.
- Tested by: Denise Primbet
The ultimate skincare/makeup hybrid formula, this clever bronzing serum from Makeup By Mario offers two ways of application: through a standard pump or using a dofa applicator tip for more precision.
“Personally, I adore using the signature Mary Phillips ‘underpainting technique to wear this formula underneath makeup by strategically placing it where I would normally apply bronzer. The result? A naturally bronzed complexion with an unmatched glow to go with it,” says GLAMOUR’s freelance contributor Denise Primbet.
- Available shades: 3.
- Skincare ingredients: Antioxidant-rich vitamin E and sunflower seed oil.
- Size: 30ml.
- Tested by: Denise Primbet
Why we love it: Thanks to a formula that contains both vitamin E and sunflower seed oil, this nourishing product can help moisturise your skin while also acting as a glow enhancer for your complexion. Great for oily skin, dry skin and everything in between.
"I love these affordable bronzing drops from e.l.f. and I have been swearing by them for the last year. I love how seamlessly the formula melts into the skin without emphasising my dry patches. More importantly, it's surprisingly subtle, and given that the brand offers a few shades to choose from, you can find one that best suits your exact undertone,” says GLAMOUR’s freelance contributor Denise Primbet.
Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Hue Drops
- Available shades: 1.
- Skincare ingredients: Niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and watermelon extract.
- Size: 40ml.
- Tested by: Denise Primbet
Why we love it: Powered by key ingredients such as niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and watermelon extract, this multi-tasking skincare product is the perfect way to add a natural glow to your complexion. You can mix it in with your favourite foundation or use it as a primer for an all-over glow-boosting effect.
“Ever since this hybrid formula first landed on my desk, I was intrigued. Having been a fan of the brand's OG Watermelon Dew Drops, I knew I'd love a formula that would also bronze up my skin while keeping it nice and hydrated. What I love most about this product is that it looks natural and not at all muddy,” says GLAMOUR’s freelance contributor Denise Primbet.
Kosas DreamBeam Sunscreen SPF 30
- Available shades: 1.
- Skincare ingredients: Ceramides and peptides.
- Size: 40ml.
- Tested by: Denise Primbet
Why we love it: “Kosas has always been one of my favourite beauty brands that put skincare benefits at the forefront of each launch,” says GLAMOUR's freelance contributor Denise Primbet.
“This launch in particular has become my go-to, and with good reason. Although it's not necessarily described as a bronzing drops formula per se, this sunscreen/primer hybrid comes in shade Sunlit offers the most natural bronzy glow which layers beautifully underneath makeup.”
Infused with skincare heroes like ceramides and peptides, this skin-loving formula will also look after your moisture barrier, which is essential for maintaining a healthy-looking complexion. Plus, it also offers SPF30 protection, making it all the more appealing to use throughout summer.
Westman Atelier Sun Tone Bronzing Drops
- Available shades: 4.
- Skincare ingredients: Prebiotic moisturizing complex, Westman Atelier's hydra nourish blend, carrot oil.
- Size: 30ml.
- Tested by: Denise Primbet
Why we love it: One of the brand's best-selling formulas, the Sun Tone bronzing drops are truly one of the most versatile iterations out there. They come in four shades in total, making the formula perfectly adaptable to every skin tone and undertone. Apply them using your fingers, a brush or a sponge, you can easily use them either under makeup or over – all while customising the finish and coverage to your desired result.
“My dry skin pairs really well with this formula from Westman Atelier,” says GLAMOUR's freelance contributor Denise Primbet. “I love that it comes infused with a prebiotic moisturising complex that helps strengthen my skin's natural microbiome, all while keeping my complexion well looked after throughout the day.”
- Available shades: 1.
- Skincare ingredients: Niacinamide, squalane and jojoba oil.
- Size: 30ml.
- Tested by: Denise Primbet
Why we love it: Looking for self-tanning drops that deliver instant, dewy results? Say less. This lightweight Sunny Serum from Isle of Paradise is formulated with niacinamide, squalane and jojoba oil to give you the healthiest glow of your life.
“As someone who has notoriously dry skin, I know just how frustrating it can be to use bronzing drops and have the formula turn muddy or cling onto your dry patches,” says GLAMOUR's freelance contributor Denise Primbet. “Thankfully, this innovative formula from Isle of Paradise is nothing of the sort. Upon application, it feels extremely moisturising on the skin and delivers lasting hydration (all kudos to its wonderful skin-loving ingredients). The result? Healthy-looking, bronzed up skin that looks as though you've just come back from a holiday.”
Ultra Violette Queen Screen SPF50 Super Glow Drops Bronzing
- Available shades: 1.
- Skincare ingredients: Pentavitin, bemotrizinol, rice bran wax.
- Size: 30ml.
- Tested by: Denise Primbet
Why we love it: Specially designed to work well with Ultra Violette's wide selection of sun creams and lotions, these SPF50 bronzing drops melt into your skin with ease. It's also formulated to be suitable for all skin types, even for those of us with dry and sensitive skin. Plus, it can be worn underneath or over your makeup, as well as on its own.
“When I layer my sunscreen, I love using these SPF50 bronzing drops from Ultra Violette as a finishing touch to complete my base routine before applying makeup. I enjoy that the formula glides on easily without feeling greasy, leaving you with the most gorgeous post-holiday glowy base,” says GLAMOUR's freelance contributor Denise Primbet.
Why are bronzing drops so popular?
“As a makeup artist, I have always been known for this authentically bronzed skin,” shares founder of Westman Atelier and renowned makeup artist Gucci Westman. “I think everyone feels better, looks healthier, with an authentic sun-kissed glow,” she adds.
That said, Gucci reiterates that opting for the right shade that would complement your undertone is key, and ideally, “it needs to have no shimmer,” she shares.
How do bronzing drops differ from traditional bronzers?
“I personally use both powder bronzer and liquid bronzer depending on the look I want to achieve,” she says. According to Gucci, “for effortless healthy looking skin, bronzing drops can be more intuitive and quick because no brush is needed.
"When creating Sun Tone Bronzing Drops, it had to be non‑intimidating to use, streak‑free, and matte with absolutely no shimmer so it looks like real skin," she explains as she points out her best-selling formula which comes in four adaptable shades that complement a variety of skin tones.
How to apply bronzing drops, according to an MUA
“I target anywhere the sun naturally hits — on the temples, cheekbones, bridge of the nose, a sweep over the forehead,” explains Gucci. “Sun Tone Bronzing Drops are streak-free, so you can wear under foundation without disrupting your makeup,” she adds.
She also shares that you can also wear bronzing drops all over for a wash of warmth. Application-wise, Gucci prefers using fingers for a seamless finish. That said, “You can also use a brush for a more refined, targeted approach,” she shares.
You can also experiment and mix them into your foundation for a more dramatic look. If you're after something more natural, start by adding one or two drops to your skincare formula of choice and spread all over.
What should you avoid when it comes to using bronzing drops?
“I take a ‘less is more’ approach. Bronzing drops have a very buildable formula so you can always add more as needed,” says Gucci. “I can wear just a hint all over or build it up. The key is finding the right tone – not too orange, it needs to look like an authentic bronze,” she points out.
The GLAMOUR editors recommend avoiding formulas that aren't hydrating enough as it could potentially result in a patchy finish and cling onto the drier areas of your face. Simply glance over the ingredient list and keep an eye out for components like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, glycerin and squalane.
For more beauty content from Glamour UK Beauty Contributor Denise Primbet, follow her on Instagram @deniseprimbet.
