Fake tan season is officially here. Whether you rely on a glow-getting express formula or a gradual moisturiser for a subtle sheen, there’s never been more choice when it comes to the best fake tans.
While you afford room for error with a body fake tan, the stakes are higher with facial formulas: streaky, orange-toned and drying fake tans are an unflattering nightmare. In more than a decade since I started fake tanning, I’ve tried some truly awful facial tans – but also some excellent ones. Caudalie’s self tan drops are as good as everyone says, while Tan Luxe’s formula creates a perfectly sun-kissed look. I won’t name and shame the bad ones.
Now, a new facial fake tan has entered the scene: Dior’s solar drops. Joining the self-tanning body gel, the new drops from the luxury house were launched in the spring. I’ve been using them for around a month, with each application lasting for up to a week. Infused with hydrating hyaluronic acid, the glowy serum-like formula has effortlessly slotted into my skincare routine. The catch? The fake tan drops will set you back nearly £60 – that’s double what most facial formulas on the market cost.
First Impressions and Application
On first impressions, I was blown away by how hydrating the formula feels. Unlike some self-tanners that can leave skin feeling tight or dry, these Dior drops blend seamlessly across your face, helping to keep skin soft, plump and comfortable throughout the day. The addition of skincare-focused ingredients means it feels more like a luxury serum than a traditional fake tan.
The tan itself develops evenly and gradually, making it almost impossible to overdo. I found the coverage to be impressively uniform, with no streaks or patchiness, even around trickier areas such as the hairline and jawline. The resulting colour is beautifully natural-looking, creating a believable sun-kissed glow rather than an obvious fake tan effect.
Key Features and Benefits
- Skincare-powered: Infused with hyaluronic acid for hydration.
- Natural results: Gradual development prevents streaks and orange tones.
- Long-lasting: Each application lasts up to a week with even fading.
- Glowy finish: A subtle shimmer that looks healthy, not glittery.
Value for Money
At £56 for 30ml, these drops are undeniably an investment. However, a little goes a long way, and the bottle should last for months. The luxurious packaging also adds to the premium experience. While cheaper alternatives like Caudalie’s drops offer similar results, Dior’s formula stands out for its skincare benefits and radiant finish.
Final Verdict
Luxury beauty products often come with lofty promises, but Dior’s fake tan drops genuinely deliver. At £56 for 30ml, they're undoubtedly an investment, but after testing them, I can see why they've developed a loyal following. However, I do think other fake tan formulas – particularly Caudalie’s drops – achieve a similarly sun-kissed effect at a fraction of the price. But, for those seeking a natural, glowing tan with skincare benefits, it's a worthwhile indulgence.
How I Tested
As a fake tan obsessive of more than a decade, I’ve learnt a thing or two about what makes an excellent formula. When testing Dior’s tan, I assessed various factors – from colour payoff to how evenly the tan developed. I always make sure my skin is freshly cleansed (or exfoliated) to ensure the formula glides on smoothly. I put the Dior formula through its paces on bare skin, layered over skincare and under make-up.
