I’m definitely not the palest person who’s ever lived but probably close enough. I emerge from spring season with my big grin and pale (sometimes with a blue-ish tint) skin, ready to get some tan. Self-tan, I mean. Because I drastically reduce time in direct sun and apply SPF daily, self-tanning is the only way for me. I usually opt for Eco by Sonya Face Tan Water because it’s so effortless to use and delivers light, natural-looking tan. Still, this time I wanted to try something different and got the Isle Of Paradise Tanning Drops.
One of the things that were the most appealing to me when choosing the tan drops was, of course, the packaging that the Isle of Paradise has created for their products. Very eye-catching! The Self Tanning Drops come in three colors: Light, Medium, and Dark, each color in a different color packaging. Being pale as I am, I chose Light, which is an alluring peachy bottle.
Like many so-called natural self-tanners, this one also isn’t purely natural but instead made with natural/organic ingredients. You’ll find coconut oil, avocado oil as well as aloe vera extract, sage, and peppermint oils in addition to the only ingredient that makes the self-tanning process happen – dihydroxyacetone. I wish it wouldn’t contain a couple ingredients, especially alcohol, which might be irritating and drying for the skin in the long run or on frequent use.
The drops must be mixed with a moisturizer before application. This way you can choose the intensity of the tan yourself (recommendation is 1-2 drops, but, apparently, you can add more if you want intense results). It was an additional step coming from the Tan Water where you just pour it in your hand and literally splash it on your face. It does not say exactly how much moisturizer you should use, so at first, I was worried that it would come out too intense or uneven.
However, the results are excellent! I usually add 3 drops to quarter size amount of moisturizer, which gives me light and surprisingly even tan. It’s best to choose a moisturizer that rubs in and absorbs well to prevent streaks. The Self Tanning drops can be used for face as well as body. I’ve tried it for my arms and legs, but since my legs are much paler than my face, the same amount of drops (3 drops) wasn’t enough to achieve even the slightest tan, so it all depends on the complexion. Also, since it’s $29 per bottle, I think I will stick with using it for my face only. But other then that, I’m really impressed.
Isle Of Paradise Tan Drops available at Sephora, Beauty Bay, other stockists for 30ml / $29; UK – Cult Beauty for 30ml / £19.95.