Tanning has evolved. Gone are the days of orange streaks, patchy sprays, and fake-looking results. Today, the glow-up has gone high-tech — and tanning drops are leading the charge. Whether you apply them to your face and body or take them orally, these drops have transformed how we tan.

If you’ve ever wondered what tanning drops are or what drinkable tanning drops do, this guide breaks down everything you need to know — from what’s inside them to how they work and which type is right for you.

Tanning Drops Explained

At their core, tanning drops are a concentrated form of self-tanner designed to mix easily with your skincare. Instead of slathering on a mousse or spray, you simply add a few drops to your daily moisturiser, serum, or body lotion.

The drops contain active tanning ingredients — usually DHA (dihydroxyacetone) or erythrulose that react with amino acids on the surface of your skin. This gentle reaction produces a bronzed tone that develops naturally over several hours.

The beauty of this method is control. You decide how dark you want to go. Add a few drops for a subtle glow, or more for a deep golden tan. It’s simple, streak-free, and fits seamlessly into your skincare routine.

In short, tanning drops mean no more patchy results, no weird smells, and no fake tan drama — just consistent, buildable colour that fades evenly.

The Meaning Behind Tanning Drops

So, what do tanning drops really mean in the world of modern beauty? They represent a shift in how people approach tanning. Rather than being a messy one-off product, tanning has become part of skincare.

Think of them as a beauty hybrid: part self-tanner, part skin treatment. Most formulas now include hydrating and soothing ingredients like aloe vera, hyaluronic acid, or vitamin E — which means you can glow while you nourish your skin.

In other words, tanning drops are the intersection of skincare and self-tanning — designed to enhance your natural tone without damaging your skin or blocking your pores.

Different Types of Tanning Drops

There are two main categories of tanning drops: topical and drinkable. Each works differently but serves the same purpose — helping you achieve your perfect glow.

1. Topical Tanning Drops (Applied to Skin)

This is the classic version most people know and love. These drops are mixed into your favourite moisturiser and applied directly to the face or body.

They’re ideal if you want fast results and full control over your shade. Most people see colour appear within 3 to 6 hours, with the tan lasting around a week depending on skin type and prep.

How to use topical tanning drops:

  1. Exfoliate before your first use for an even base.

  2. Add 2–4 drops into your moisturiser for a light glow, or 6–8 for a deeper bronze.

  3. Apply evenly and wash your hands after.

  4. Allow a few hours for the tan to develop before showering.

These are perfect for anyone who wants an easy, mess-free tan that fits into their existing skincare routine.

2. Drinkable Tanning Drops (Taken Orally)

Now, here’s where things get exciting. Drinkable tanning drops — also called tanning drops you drink, oral tanning drops, or tanning drops under the tongue — are the next evolution in sunless tanning.

Instead of applying the product to your skin, you take it internally, allowing the body to tan from the inside out. These drops typically contain ingredients that help stimulate melanin production (the pigment responsible for your skin colour).

When taken consistently, they can enhance your natural tone gradually, making your skin appear warmer and more radiant — all without UV exposure.

How they work:
Drinkable or oral tanning drops often use a blend of vitamins, amino acids, and antioxidants that encourage melanin production and support healthy skin. They’re usually taken by placing a few drops under the tongue or adding them to water or juice.

By working internally, these drops promote a slow, even glow that develops naturally over time.

The Science Behind Drinkable Tanning Drops

It might sound futuristic, but the concept is simple. Your body already produces melanin — it’s what gives your skin, hair, and eyes their colour. When exposed to sunlight, melanin increases as a natural defence against UV rays.

Drinkable tanning drops mimic that process safely by providing your body with nutrients that support melanin production, such as tyrosine, copper, and vitamin E.

Instead of UV exposure, which can cause premature ageing and skin damage, these oral drops offer a controlled, safe alternative that enhances your natural tone from within.

Results build gradually usually within 7 to 10 days and fade evenly, just like a real tan.

Tanning Drops vs Traditional Self-Tanners

So how do tanning drops compare to old-school methods like sprays or lotions? The biggest difference is control.

Traditional self-tanners are “set it and hope for the best.” Once you apply them, you’re stuck with whatever shade develops. Tanning drops, on the other hand, allow you to tailor your tan perfectly every time.

Other key advantages include:

  • No streaks: Mixing with your own moisturiser ensures even coverage.

  • No orange tones: Modern formulas are designed for natural undertones.

  • No fake tan smell: Most drops are fragrance-free or subtly scented.

  • Custom build-up: You decide how many drops to use and how often.

  • Skincare benefits: Many include hydrating, anti-ageing, or soothing ingredients.

And if you opt for drinkable tanning drops, you skip the surface application entirely. Your glow develops internally, which means no transfer on sheets, clothes, or towels.

The Rise of Oral and Drinkable Tanning

When oral tanning drops first appeared, many were sceptical. Could you really drink your tan? But as ingredient science has improved, results have become more consistent and natural-looking.

Unlike old “tanning pills,” modern tanning drops you drink use precise liquid formulas that absorb quickly under the tongue and bypass the digestive system, helping nutrients reach the bloodstream faster.

That means your body can produce melanin more efficiently, giving you a more authentic tone without UV damage.

While topical tanning drops provide faster results, drinkable tan drops are better for long-term, inside-out glow maintenance — especially when paired with a clean diet, hydration, and antioxidant-rich skincare.

Are Drinkable Tanning Drops Safe?

Yes — when made properly, drinkable tanning drops are safe and designed with skin health in mind. Reputable brands (like 2 Damn Dark) use vegan, cruelty-free formulas that contain vitamins, amino acids, and plant-based extracts rather than synthetic dyes or dangerous chemicals.

Always look for products that are:

  • Clinically tested or formulated in regulated facilities

  • Vegan and cruelty-free

  • Free from parabens, artificial colourants, and alcohols

Like any supplement, it’s important to use them as directed. Start slow, stay consistent, and remember that results build gradually.

Can You Combine Topical and Drinkable Drops?

Absolutely — and many people do.

Using both together can amplify results and create a more even, long-lasting glow. For example, you might take drinkable tanning drops daily to maintain your melanin levels, while applying topical tanning drops two or three times per week for a boost of surface colour.

This approach keeps your glow consistent year-round — no streaks, no fading surprises.

The Benefits of Tanning Drops

Whether topical or oral, the benefits go beyond the tan itself.

Topical tanning drops offer:

  • Fast-developing, streak-free colour

  • Fully customisable intensity

  • Hydration and nourishment for the skin

  • Easy integration into your daily skincare routine

Drinkable tanning drops offer:

  • Even, long-lasting colour from within

  • No application mess or surface transfer

  • Added vitamins and antioxidants for healthy skin

  • Safe melanin support without UV exposure

Both types share one major advantage: confidence. The right glow makes skin look healthier, smoother, and more radiant — all without spending hours in the sun or a tanning bed.

Choosing the Right Tanning Drops for You

When choosing between topical and drinkable tanning drops, consider your lifestyle, preferences, and skin type.

  • If you enjoy skincare rituals and visible control, go with topical drops.

  • If you want effortless, inside-out radiance, drinkable tanning drops are the smarter choice.

  • If you love both — mix and match.

Look for vegan, cruelty-free, and non-comedogenic formulas, especially if you have sensitive or acne-prone skin. And always patch test new products before applying them to your face or body.

The 2 Damn Dark Difference

At 2 Damn Dark, we do tanning differently. We don’t settle for fake orange tones or sticky formulas. Every product is designed to help you glow boldly, safely, and beautifully from the inside out.

Our range of tanning drops and drinkable tanning drops are made in the UK using premium, vegan ingredients that nourish while they bronze. Whether you drop it on or drink it in, you’ll get the same streak-free, natural finish that defines a true 2 Damn Dark tan.

No filters. No fakes. Just you turned up a shade or two darker.

Final Thoughts: The Meaning of Modern Tanning Drops

So, what are tanning drops really about? Freedom.

Freedom from streaks, UV damage, and one-size-fits-all colour. Freedom to glow your way — naturally, ethically, and confidently.

Topical tanning drops give you visible control over your shade, while drinkable tanning drops help your glow start from within. Together, they’re redefining what it means to tan — healthy, flexible, and authentically you.

Whether you’re after a subtle sun-kissed tone or a bold bronze, one thing’s clear: tanning drops are the future of glowing skin.

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