Sun drops are fast becoming our go-to for brightening and protecting our skin. The latest SPF and self-tan versions are getting much attention - but do they work? Read on to learn more, says editor Trudi Brewer.
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To put the record straight, sun drops are a thing, and they come in many forms. Our focus is on SPF and self-tan and how, if you mix a measured dose with your regular moisturiser, you can make a multi-benefit product. But dermatologist Joshua Zeichner, MD, warns, "For a booster to be effective, you must use enough of it, particularly with sunscreen. You need a coin-sized amount applied to the full face." Don’t mix them with active skincare. "I caution against combining them with active or specialised moisturisers that contain ingredients like antioxidants or hydroxy acids as these ingredients may interact with the sunscreens," says Dr Zeichner, who adds, always combine sunscreen drops with simple moisturisers.” We also avoid oil-based products that can break down the integrity of an SPF. So, to what’s new in this category, here are our latest innovations on rotation right now.
NEW Boost Lab Goody Goody Sun Drops, $45
We are suitably impressed by these hydrating, lightweight serum sun drops. Why? First, they are a mix of skin-loving vitamins D and E, jojoba Oil, and a combination of chemical (organic) SPFs such as Octocrylene and avobenzone broad-spectrum UV filters, which means they protect the skin from both UVA and UVB rays. The formula has no sulphates or parabens and is fragrance and cruelty-free.
HOW DO I USE IT:
Apply in the morning as the final step in your skincare routine. Use two to three full droppers alone or mixed with moisturiser for your face, neck, and décolletage, and don’t forget the backs of the hands.
Made by Mecca, they call this serum skincare that meets sun care. That’s because of the lightweight texture and brightening ingredients alongside the broad spectrum of organic SPF50 screens. It also contains liquorice root extract to brighten the skin and vitamins E and niacinamide at three per cent, which helps smooth fine lines, boosts radiance, hydrates and strengthens the skin’s barrier.
How to use It:
Suitable for all skin types, apply a generous amount after moisturising the skin. Into a moisturiser or on its own. Allow it to sink in for a few minutes, and then apply makeup over the top.
This (physical) mineral sunscreen has ingredients such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, offering an SPF50 formula in three shades. Created to wear alone or as a skin-perfecting primer, the pearl-like finish helps blur the look of an uneven skin tone, correcting redness while protecting your complexion. The formula is stacked with antioxidants, including hibiscus flower extract, pink algae, and wild rosella, to help firm and brighten the skin. At the same time, hyaluronic acid boosts hydration and that feeling of bouncy skin.
HOW TO USE IT:
This screen is versatile; it can be applied after moisturiser, added to moisturiser or foundation, worn on its own, and over makeup for extra coverage and glow.
NEW ST TROPEZ SELF TAN LUXE TAN TONIC DROPS, $55.
In the same way, SPF drops help keep your skin sun-safe, and self-tan drops give you a faux golden glow. These newbies are infused with the same 100 per cent natural tanning active and potent hydrating and soothing skincare ingredients like niacinamide hyaluronic acid. As well as echinacea acerola cherry vitamins C and E.
HOW TO USE IT:
The best thing about tanning drops is that you can use them as much or as little as you want, depending on the depth of tan you're trying to achieve. Apply a few drops directly to the skin or mix with your favourite moisturiser or serum morning or night.
NEW Bondi Sands Self Tan Drops Light/Medium, for face and Body $20.
Australian tan brand Bondi Sands has just launched Self Tan Drops, with two intensities of DHA, the sugar extract that tans the other layers of the skin. There’s a Light/Medium and Dark, so you can control your desired bronze glow. They are also boosted with natural plant ingredients such as Lilly Pilly, lemon Aspen and Davidsonia to help strengthen and plump the skin. At the same time, hyaluronic acid and vitamins C and E boost hydration and radiance.
HOW TO USE IT:
For the face or body, add four to 12 drops to your moisturiser to give the skin a natural-looking tan to your skin within hours. Safe on all skin types, even sensitive, these drops are fragrance- and dye-free.
Ideal for Christmas gifting.