I found 6 products that will let me keep my summer glow long after Labor Day

It’s no surprise to me, True Botanicals most dedicated fan, that they managed to launch one of the most raved-about products of the summer. Yes, the Bronze Well Regenerative Glow Drops are pricey, but let me explain. First off, a tiny bit goes a long way. Just add a few drops to your favorite lotion or serum to get a subtle but noticeable luminosity that’s not glittery or greasy. (I’ve been using them almost daily for a couple months and I’m not even halfway through the bottle.) Second, they’re legit skincare. Made from a gorgeous blend of anti-aging Carotenoid Rich Oils , Vitamin A rich Apricot Kernel Oil and Calendula Oil, the formula helps regenerate, hydrate, and soothe all kinds of skin. Like their Pure Radiance Oil (a true staple in my routine), it sinks in without feeling like an oil slick and leaves skin soft and glowy.

I admit the first time I used YSE Beauty’s Skin Glow SPF 30 Primer I gave myself too much credit. I peered into the mirror at the end of the day and was like “Wow. I’m really killing it with the glow today. So on top of the skin game.” Girl, no. You put new product on your face in the afternoon and forgot about it.
I’ve been using it as my mid-day refresh hack ever since. (Yes, you could use it whenever you want, but I have a morning pre-Pilates routine which calls upon a different sunscreen which I’ll get to in a bit.) The formula is kind of pearlescent which gives it a blurring effect as well as a dewy radiance that’s like the skincare equivalent of quiet luxury. I don’t know how to describe it except, “you but better”. I can even reapply it when I’m out–as we should all be doing with sunscreen!

Given my track record for woefully inept self-tanner application, I’ve shied away from traditional lotion formulas–especially when it comes to my face. This mist from Dolce Glow couldn’t be any easier. You just spray it on as a primer or setting spray and it gives an even, natural, and buildable tan. It’s super subtle–so much so that I feel like I don’t notice it until after a few days of use–but definitely gives a healthy looking complexion. I also like that it’s not stinky or sticky and it never irritates my skin either.

Similarly, I’ve had success with the Dolce Glow body spray. Despite my shortcomings in self-tanner application, I’ve managed to give myself a non-streaky, almost pro-level toasting. I step into the shower to avoid making a mess and spray one body part at a time then spread it around with a self-tanning mitt. The color is natural and not too dark or orangey and it doesn’t leave my skin feeling or smelling gross. I’ve not noticed any transfer to my bedsheets either.

I’ve been a Colorescience fan since a glass-skinned facialist recommended them to me years ago. This particular formula is one of my morning routine staples. I mix a few drops of it with their tinted  Flex sunscreen instead of using a foundation. It gives just enough sheer coverage to look put together and the glow adds some dimension and sun-kissed effect. And since sunscreen is a non-negotiable, it’s so convenient to check all the boxes at once.

(Full disclosure, they also have a Bronze formula that I am eager to try which promises to offer a “natural, sun-kissed look.” Will report back!)

I admit that my teenage daughter turned me onto this drugstore hero. Allegedly a dupe for the “sunshine in a bottle” of Drunk Elephant’s D-Bronzi Bronzing Drops, they do exactly what you want them to do–without denting your wallet. They’re shimmery but not glittery and blend easily, especially when added to a lightweight moisturizer. There are three shades to choose from and because they’re inexpensive I’ve been known to add a few drops to my body lotion as well.