Topical vs oral tanning drops: What works and what to skip

Want bronzed skin without stepping into the sun? Tanning skincare products promise that golden glow in different ways.  Some are topical (applied to the skin), while others mix into your skincare, or are even added to your drinks or smoothies (oral tanning supplements). Many of these products get their colour-boosting power from carotenoids, the same pigments that make carrots orange and tomatoes red.

But can these ingredients really change your skin tone from the inside out? And are they safe? Let’s take a closer look at what the science says about topical vs oral tanning drops, and which ones are worth your time (and money). First, it’s important to touch on what influences the colour of your skin.

What actually gives your skin its colour?

Your skin colour is shaped by a mix of natural pigments and biological factors. Here’s how it all comes together.

Melanin:

This is the main pigment that determines your base skin tone. Produced by specialised cells called melanocytes, melanin absorbs UV radiation and helps protect against DNA damage. Genetics, sun exposure and hormones all influence how much melanin your skin makes and where it’s distributed.

Carotenoids:

These plant-derived pigments (like β-carotene, lycopene, lutein and zeaxanthin) give many fruits and vegetables their orange, red and yellow colours and can also tint human skin when consumed consistently. Clinical studies have shown that higher carotenoid intake can subtly increase skin yellowness or golden tones after several weeks. Carotenoids are absorbed through the gut, transported to the liver, then taken to different areas of the body like the eyes and the skin. 

Haemoglobin:

The pink or red undertone in your skin comes from blood circulating in the capillaries just below the surface. The more oxygenated your blood, the rosier the appearance.

Together, the pigments melanin, carotenoids and haemoglobin, create your unique skin tone and influence how your skin appears. So, can tanning drops change your skin colour? Let's look at the research.

What are tanning drops?

Tanning drops come in two main forms, topical (applied to the skin) and oral (taken as supplements). Some products rely purely on surface pigments or dyes for a temporary bronze, while others claim to influence your skin tone from within by increasing carotenoid levels in the skin.

Do tanning drops actually work?

Topical tanning drops

Topical tanning drops containing dyes or bronzing agents can temporarily change the skin’s appearance, but this effect comes from surface staining, not internal pigment changes.

Oral carotenoid supplements

Most oral tanning drops on the market contain carotenoids like β-carotene, lycopene, lutein and zeaxanthin, the same natural pigments that give fruits and vegetables their vibrant colours. Clinical studies in humans taking concentrated carotenoid supplements suggest carotenoids may slightly increase skin “yellowness” or golden tones, in caucasian populations, but we need studies with more people to confirm this. 

The real glow up? Eating more carotenoid-rich fruits and vegetables have some promising skin health benefits. Research suggests these colourful compounds can:

• Help protect against sun damage by reducing UV-induced redness and oxidative stress.
• Reduce skin inflammation, helping to prevent ongoing irritation and tissue breakdown.
• Promote collagen health, while reducing the factors that cause it to break down.
• Support immune function, which in turn plays a vital role in maintaining healthy, balanced skin.

It’s important to remember that these changes occur gradually, not overnight, and require consistent intake through diet or supplementation.

Before you buy: What to look out for on labels

Overstated claims:
If an oral tanning product promises a visible tan in days, it’s unlikely to be backed by science. Skin colour changes from carotenoids are subtle and develop slowly.

Unclear ingredient lists:
Some tanning drops may contain necessary additives, artificial sweeteners or preservatives. Always read the ingredients list first.

How to support a natural glow safely

1. Eat a colourful diet
Carotenoid-rich foods such as carrots, sweet potato, pumpkin, tomatoes, and leafy greens naturally contain an abundance of antioxidants that support healthy skin.

2. Use well-formulated supplements
Other vitamins that may support skin health include omega 3, vitamin A, collagen powders and antioxidants like selenium and zinc.

3. Protect your skin
UV protection remains essential. Sunscreen, protective clothing and shade are still your best tools for preventing premature skin aging and maintaining healthy skin tone.

The bottom line

Although some tanning drops may temporarily alter the yellowness of the skin, a real glow comes from within. This comes from a diet rich in colourful fruit and veg, as well as good sleep, low stress, and daily routines that protect your skin from damage.

Eat well, move often, rest deeply, and your natural colour will shine through, no fake tan (or drops) required.

Reviewed by the Healthylife health experts October 2025.