Product type
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Formula & mechanisms of action
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Healthy Glow & Tanning Serum
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It is generally based on carotenoids, natural pigments that settle on the skin’s surface to give it a subtle tint with an immediate radiance-boosting effect. The most commonly used active ingredients, such as carrot macerate, have the advantage of supporting the skin’s defence system against environmental stressors, thanks to their antioxidant properties.
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Self-tanner
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It traditionally contains DHA (dihydroxyacetone), the benchmark self-tanning active ingredient. When it comes into contact with the stratum corneum, it triggers a chemical glycation reaction known as the ‘Maillard reaction’. This reaction releases brown pigments which bind to the outermost layer of the skin. This is what gives the skin its characteristic tanned appearance (1).
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Glow-boosting & tanning serum or self-tanning drops: which should you choose?
Published on: Friday, May 15, 2026, Updated on: Friday, October 16, 2026
For that ‘just back from the beach’ look, you can choose between our Radiant & Tanning Serum and our Self-Tanning Drops. Both promise an even, streak-free tan all year round. However, there are a few differences between these two products that will help you decide which is best for you, depending on your expectations and goals. How long the colour lasts, the finish achieved, how to apply it or the formula: let’s take a closer look at these two essentials for sunless tanning.
Contents
Related products
Tanning
£9.50
30 ml
Tanning
£15.50
250 ml
2 options
Nourishing
£7.00
200 ml
£4.00
10 g
In brief
Both radiance-boosting serums and self-tanning drops give you a gradual tan without the sun. The serum mainly adds radiance, whilst the drops allow for a more customisable tan
The serum is applied directly to the skin every day. The drops, on the other hand, are mixed into your moisturiser to adjust the intensity to suit your preferences
The article also shares tips on how to achieve a natural, even result, without streaks or an overly dramatic effect.
What is the difference between a healthy glow & tanning serum and self-tanning drops?
Spotlight on our Radiant Complexion & Tanning Serum
The ideal product for achieving a tan without the sun and maintaining a tanned complexion all year round. Formulated with carrot and inositol, this two-phase serum gives a natural, radiant glow from the very first use and helps you achieve a sun-kissed complexion without the sun, thanks to its melanin-boosting active ingredients. Enriched with skincare actives and antioxidants, it moisturises and plumps the skin’s appearance.
Non-comedogenic, suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. Formula tested under dermatological supervision, 100% naturally derived ingredients, certified organic, made in France. Our toxicologists approve this product for use by pregnant and breastfeeding women.
A closer look at our Self-Tanning Drops
The ideal product for achieving a bespoke tan. Formulated with 100 per cent naturally sourced DHA and erythrulose, this liquid self-tanning product offers a gradual tan with adjustable intensity. It quickly tints the skin’s surface whilst stimulating its natural melanin production.
Suitable for all skin types, even the most sensitive. Dermatologically tested, vegan, 100 per cent natural ingredients, certified organic, made in France.
Do not use undiluted. Keep out of reach of children. Follow the recommended dosage. Avoid the eye area.
How do you choose between a healthy glow & tanning serum and self-tanning drops?
Whilst the end result (colour, intensity of the tan, how long the tan lasts) is, of course, a key factor, other variables also come into play.
Ease of application: self-tanners have a reputation for being tricky to measure out, fiddly to apply and for staining clothes. Fortunately, this isn’t true of all self-tanning drops. However, if you prioritise speed and simplicity in your beauty routine, do pay attention to your product’s instructions for use.
The presence of DHA: DHA is a cosmetic ingredient considered safe and uncontroversial. However, you may prefer ‘inert’ active ingredients, whose mode of action does not involve a chemical reaction with your skin. If this applies to you, a healthy glow serum is an excellent alternative.
The overall formula: the percentage of naturally derived ingredients, any organic or vegan certifications, suitability for sensitive skin or during pregnancy… All these factors are worth considering if you’re looking for a worry-free, sunless ‘tan’ that aligns with your values.
Read also: how to make your own natural self-tanner.
What are the differences between them?
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Glow & Tan Serum
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Self-Tanning Drops
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Results | An instant healthy glow and a gradual tan from 7 days onwards. | Visible tan from 24 hours. |
Skincare benefits | Moisturising, plumping and antioxidant. | /
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Directions for use | Ready to use: apply directly to the skin. | Mix in the palm of your hand with one of our neutral bases before applying, or use as an ingredient in your homemade self-tanning products. |
Area of application | Face, neck and décolletage. | Face and body. |
Key active ingredients | Carrot macerate and inositol. No DHA. | DHA and erythrulose. |
Good to know: the Vitamin C & Astaxanthin serum also gives the complexion an instant glow, but without the subtle tint characteristic of the Healthy Glow & Tan Serum. Another difference is that it has no effect on melanin synthesis. Choose this if you’re looking for a brightening, skin-evening and antioxidant effect, but without a tanned look.
If you prefer ‘internal’ solutions, there are also dietary supplements that can give you a healthy glow all year round. This is the case with our Organic Urucum tablets. In summer, our Sun Complex capsules and Melanin tablets help you tan faster.
Discover our tips for preparing your skin for tanning.
Is it possible to layer the two products to achieve a tanned complexion?
Yes, you can use our radiance-boosting serum and our self-tanning drops at the same time as part of your skincare routine. We particularly recommend this combination if you want to achieve a tanned complexion more quickly. The Healthy Glow & Tan Serum takes 7 days for its melanin-boosting effects to become visible, whilst the self-tanner gives you a tan within 24 hours.
Precautions
Applying our radiance-boosting serum or self-tanning drops does not provide any sun protection for your skin. If you plan to be out in the sun, it is therefore essential to use an SPF product over your radiance-boosting or self-tanning product. Make sure you choose a sun protection factor suitable for your skin type and reapply it frequently.
Do not use the radiance-boosting serum with a anti-dark spot treatment, as these products contain active ingredients that limit melanin production, which counteracts the serum’s effect.
Expert advice
If you prefer ‘internal’ solutions, there are also dietary supplements that can give you a healthy glow all year round. This is the case with our Organic Urucum tablets. In summer, our Sun Complex capsules and Melanin tablets help you tan faster.
Focus on Our Writer: Hélène Betoux
Hélène Betoux is a French beauty journalist specialising in web media. Every day she writes tips, advice, and guides to help consumers choose the right beauty products. With a strong interest in natural, organic, and clean cosmetics, she analyses and shares trends and innovations in the sector.
Bibliography
M.-C. Martini, Self-tanners and artificial tanning products, Annales de Dermatologie et de Vénéréologie, Volume 144, Issue 10, 2017, Pages 638–644, ISSN 0151-9638
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.annder.2017.03.021.
