As a pale girl, getting a natural tan can be a struggle. It requires a lot of sunbathing, and with the lack of sun in the UK, plus the skin damage, it’s not really worth it for me anymore. So I’m always on the lookout for a bronzing product that can recreate that natural-looking sun-kissed complexion.
And I think I’ve just found my new favourite. Iconic London released its new Bronzing Elixir, £25, just last week, and it’s already secured itself a top spot in my make-up bag.
This hydrating, tinted elixir is different from other bronzing drops I’ve tried. Rather than a creamy serum, it’s instead a far more watery consistency and almost acts like a stain (although easily washed off).
Packed full of skin-loving, moisturising ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and lemon water, this elixir results in a healthy, radiant-looking glow that looks like you’ve just spent two weeks on a tropical getaway.
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Bronzing drops have become a hyped product over the past few years, and it’s safe to say I’ve tried my fair share. Although I’ve really rated most of them, Iconic’s one stands out for its unique formula.
I struggle most with bronzing drops building up in my hairline or going patchy throughout the day, but I didn’t experience any of these issues with the Bronzing Elixir.
The product can be mixed into moisturisers and skin tints or worn on its own. I tested this out via both methods and ended up preferring it on its own, straight onto the skin.
A bi-phase bronzing elixir that combines bronzing pigments with hydrating ingredients including hyaluronic acid and lemon water, to create a sunkissed, radiant complexion.
Leaves a natural-looking bronzed tan; easy to apply; the product doesn’t build up in the hairline; and packed with skin-loving ingredients
Leaves more of a matte finish (however, this depends on personal preference)
For easy application, I recommend pouring a small amount onto your hand (it’s quite liquidy, so start with just a little) and using a dense brush to buff it in. And make sure to shake the bottle well before use to ensure the pigment is evenly distributed.
The product is easily buildable, so you can customise your level of bronziness. I love that it applies more sheer, which gives a natural finish. Initially, I was concerned because it appeared very shimmery on my hand, but once applied, it didn’t come off glittery at all, instead, it left a beautiful, luminous glow.
I’ve struggled to find any criticisms with this Bronzing Elixir, the only think I can note is that it dries down fairly matte, so if you want that super dewy look (and are using this product on its own), you may want to go in with an extra glow-boosting product on top.
This is now my current go-to when I want a sunkissed boost, but a few other of my favourite bronzing products include: the First Aid Beauty Bronze And Glow Drops With Niacinamide, £26; the Isle of Paradise Sunny Serum, £15.95; and the e.l.f. SKIN Bronzing Drops, £12.
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