In a recent (and immediately saved) clip, celebrity makeup artist Pati Dubroff (the mastermind behind the ethereal, lit-from-within complexions of Margot Robbie and Dakota Johnson), shared the secret to her signature luminous skin. The unexpected hero? A dedicated face self-tanner.

“I travel constantly for work all over the world and certain places have signature in Australia it’s this, glowy bronze skin barely there makeup nothing overworked it feels very intentional,” says Dubroff.

And her product of choice? The Three Warriors Hydrabronze Tan Drops. Which, yes, we stock at Adore (more on that below).

Pati’s seal of approval is the ultimate reminder that a chic face tanner is the hardest-working inhabitant of your top shelf. Not only do they add colour and warmth but they have the ability to help improve the appearance of texture and tone.

We know the stakes are high (we’ve all had our run-ins with patchy, orange disasters), but there's a new wave of tanning tech with consideration to skin health.

From serum-infused drops to weightless mists and cocconing moisturisers, here are our favourite formulas to try.

While directions change from formula to formula, there are some general face tanner tips that will allow for seamless and smooth application: 

What: Three Warriors Hydrabronze Tan Drops - Light to Medium

As forementioned, these were Pati Dubroff's pick for achieving that effortless, Summer glow a la Margot Robbie.

Dubroff suggests mixing three drops into moisturiser for a soft, warm glow and adding a few more for a deeper tone. This antioxidant rich formula is spiked with Tasmanian Spring Water (to refresh and balance), Hyaluronic Acid (to hydrate and plump) and Vitamin E (to help protect and nourish skin). Great for sensitive skin types, the formula is also vegan, cruelty-free and made in Australia.

Best of all? The streak-free formula delivers customisable and natural looking results with a flattering golden undertone. It's available in two shades to suit a range of skin tones.

Lovers of a last-minute plan will adore this fast-acting formula. (I know I do!). Designed to deliver a radiant, sun-kissed finish in just two hours, this is the ultimate same day event prep.

The lightweight, skincare-infused serum is packed with 100% Ecocert naturally derived DHA, alongside ultra-nourishing Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin B5, and soothing Chamomile. It’s also spiked with Pomegranate and Açai Berry to protect against free radicals, while Coffee Seed Extract keeps the skin looking revitalised.

Dermatologist-tested and vegan-friendly, it’s a foolproof pick for those who want a streak-free, hydrated finish without the wait. Plus, the fast-absorbing texture means you can apply and get on with your day. I find the undertone to be very complimentary and natural-looking too!

If you’re a fan of a weightless, "set and forget" application, the Coco & Eve Antioxidant Face Tanning Micromist is about to become your new best friend. Spritzing as an ultra-fine mist, the application is completely foolproof and layers seamlessly with your existing skincare lineup.

This formula is more skincare-adjacent than a traditional tan, dosed with glow-boosting Hyaluronic Acid and antioxidant-rich fruit extracts to brighten and plump. I even tried spraying this one over makeup and was pleasantly surprised by how even and refreshing the finish felt. No splotchiness in sight!

While the effects aren't instant, after a couple of days my complexion had that subtly warm, 'spent-the-weekend-away' look. Bonus points for leaving skin notably softer!

What: Liberty Belle Rx by Dr Moss MIRACLE TAN Self-Tan Face Moisturiser for Normal to Dry Skin - 50ml

If you prefer a "skincare first" approach, the Liberty Belle Rx Miracle Tan is essentially a luxe moisturiser that just happens to give you a gorgeous glow. It’s a total game-changer for normal to dry skin types who want to target ageing while they tan.

The formula is powered by a multi-layered active complex including Squalane, Panthenol, and Zinc PCA to support your skin barrier and smooth fine lines. It uses skin-adaptive technology, so the colour develops into a natural, flattering shade within 2 to 4 hours (or overnight if you’re after something more intense).

With a refreshing citrus scent of grapefruit, it feels more like a spa treatment than a self-tanner. It’s vegan, cruelty-free, and designed by clinical experts to ensure your complexion stays plump, hydrated, and perfectly bronzed.