Throughout my teen years, I wasn't as privy to makeup or hair tutorials in the same way that my peers were, which meant that I learned some beauty lessons the hard way — some harder than others. Like the importance of taking my makeup off before bed each night, the value in knowing (the lesson being: ), or how to apply self-tanner without looking like a blood orange personified — these formative experiences are all a part growing up folks, even if they do elicit some pretty cringe memories. Luckily in adulthood, I've learned to embrace some of the features that once made me insecure — like my fair complexion.
I'll gladly accept looking pale from time to time, so long as I don't have to expose myself to harmful UV rays or run the risk of becoming a "self-tanner gone wrong" meme in public. And on the days when my face could use a little extra color, I simply turn to the ($20) to remedy it. Unlike other bronzers I've tried, these drops have a glowy tint that's not too overbearing but still manages to elevate my skin with a sun-kissed radiance.
Ahead, I break down what makes this beauty essential so great, from the product's budget-friendly price tag to its simple application and why it's arguably one of the on the market — perfect for summertime and beyond. As someone with very fair skin and a propensity to burn whenever I tan, I like that these bronzing drops give the illusion of a sun-kissed glow without the hassle of having to actually spend any time in the sun. Unlik.