Tanning drops have become increasingly popular as a way to get a natural, sun-kissed glow without spending hours under the sun. They are an easy and effective way to achieve a beautiful tan while keeping your skin safe.
What Are Tanning Drops?
Tanning drops are a type of self-tanner that can be mixed into your regular skincare products, such as moisturizers or body lotions. These drops contain active ingredients that develop a tan on your skin over a few hours after application.
Unlike traditional sun tanning or tanning beds, tanning drops provide a safe and convenient way to achieve a tan without harmful UV rays. The tanning effect occurs as the DHA (dihydroxyacetone) in the drops reacts with the amino acids in your skin, creating a bronzed, glowing look.
How to Use Tanning Drops for Radiant Skin
Now that you know what tanning drops are and how to choose the right ones for your skin tone, let’s dive into the process of using tanning for radiant skin. Follow these simple steps for the best results:
Start with Clean, Exfoliated Skin
Before applying tanning drops, make sure your skin is clean and exfoliated. Exfoliation removes dead skin cells and creates a smooth surface for the tanning to apply evenly. Use a gentle body scrub or exfoliating mitt to remove any dry patches or rough areas on your skin.
Choose Your Moisturizer or Body Lotion
Tanning drops are typically mixed with your regular body lotion or moisturizer. Choose a product that suits your skin type and apply it generously to your body. Make sure you are using a moisturizer that doesn’t have any added fragrances or oils, as these can interfere with the tanning process.
Mix Tanning Drops with Your Moisturizer
For a natural, buildable tan, mix a few drops of tanning solution into your moisturizer. Start with a small number of drops, about 2-3 drops for a light tan, and increase the amount for a darker shade.
You can adjust the number of drops depending on how deep you want your tan to be. If you’re unsure, it’s always better to start with fewer drops and build up the color gradually over time.
Apply the Mixture to Your Skin
Using your hands or a tanning mitt, apply the mixture of tanning drops and moisturizer evenly across your skin. Begin at your feet or legs and work your way up to ensure an even coverage.
Be sure to blend the product well into your skin to avoid streaks or uneven patches. Pay close attention to areas like your elbows, knees, and wrists, where the skin tends to be drier and may absorb more product.
Allow the Product to Develop
After applying the tanning drops, allow the product to develop on your skin for a few hours. The color will gradually darken as the DHA in the drops reacts with your skin.
Most tanning takes between 4-6 hours to fully develop, but some may work faster or slower depending on the formulation. You can wait overnight if you prefer a deeper tan.
Wash Off Any Excess
Once the tanning has developed, wash your hands thoroughly to remove any leftover product. If you feel that the tan is too dark or uneven, you can gently wash off the excess with lukewarm water and mild soap. However, make sure you don’t use hot water, as it may strip away the tan too soon.
Moisturize to Maintain Your Tan
After your tan has fully developed, continue to moisturize your skin daily to help preserve your radiant glow. Regular moisturizing will prevent your skin from drying out and ensure that your tan lasts longer. Additionally, avoid long hot showers or swimming in chlorinated pools, as they can fade your tan more quickly.
Why Choose Tanning Drops?
Many people choose drops over other tanning methods because of the numerous benefits they offer. One of the biggest advantages is their ease of use.
Tanning drops can be customized to your desired level of tan by adjusting the number of drops you add to your moisturizer. Drops provide a streak-free, natural-looking tan that develops gradually, giving you more control over the final result.
The formula is often enriched with ingredients that hydrate and nourish your skin, leaving it feeling soft and smooth while achieving a radiant glow.
How to Choose the Right Tanning Drops for Your Skin Tone
Before you start using tanning drops, it’s important to choose the right product for your skin tone. Drops come in various formulations, with different strengths and colors.
If you have fair or light skin, you should opt for a more subtle tanning drop with a lighter formula. These products will give you a gentle glow that looks natural and enhances your complexion.
For medium to dark skin tones, you can choose tanning drops with a deeper tan effect. These products will help you achieve a more noticeable, bronzed appearance.
Be sure to read the product labels to understand the level of tan each drop will create, and select the one that best matches your desired look.
FAQs
- How do drops work?
Tanning drops contain dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which reacts with the amino acids in the skin’s outer layer to produce a temporary tan. When mixed with your regular moisturizer, they provide a customizable tan that develops over several hours.
- Can I mix tanning drops with any moisturizer?
Yes, drops can be mixed with most moisturizers. However, it’s advisable to avoid mixing them with products containing SPF, as this may dilute the effectiveness of the sunscreen. Apply the drops with your moisturizer first, allow it to absorb, and then apply SPF separately.
- How long does it take for the tan to develop?
The tan typically begins to develop within 2 to 4 hours after application and continues to darken over the next 24 to 72 hours, depending on the product’s formulation. It’s recommended to wait at least 4 to 6 hours before washing off any excess product.
- Are tanning drops suitable for sensitive skin?
Many drops are formulated to be non-comedogenic and suitable for sensitive skin. They are often free from parabens and sulfates, which can irritate sensitive skin. However, it’s always best to perform a patch test before full application to ensure compatibility.
- How can I maintain my tan for longer?
To prolong your tan, keep your skin moisturized daily, avoid exfoliating treatments, and limit prolonged exposure to water. Regular moisturizing helps maintain the tan’s depth and ensures even fading.
