The Key to Kelly Ripa's Perfect Tan Also Comes in an Anti-Aging Version

Kelly Ripa always has the kind of tan that looks like she just got back from a trip to Cabo. However, the star is smart about her skin and relies on products rather than the sun to get her glow. She divulged during Live with Kelly & Ryan back in January that Tan Luxe's The Face Illuminating Self-Tan Drops were her secret to a safe tan. And because we're all about multipurpose products, we're obsessed with the idea of getting hydration along with a bronzed face — luckily, that's exactly what Tan Luxe's Super Glow Hyaluronic Self-Tan Serum does.

These tanning drops have the added perk of giving your skin a boost of hyaluronic acid. For the uninitiated, hyaluronic acid is a popular ingredient in skincare, especially in the last few years. Certified dermatologist Dr. Lian Mack previously told InStyle, "It is used in many topical formulations, primarily for its hydrating properties to plump and smooth the skin." So why not get it in your self-tanner, too?

Shop now: $49, nordstrom.com

For a little sunkissed action, simply rub a few drops of the serum into your skin — four to 12 depending on the shade of tan you're going for — and then apply your moisturizer (and don't forget to wash your hands when you're done). The next morning you'll look like you've been sitting pretty in the sun rather than staring at a computer screen indoors. Reviewers love that it doesn't streak or look orange. And, of course, the hyaluronic acid is a major plus. "It leaves my skin feeling so hydrated without feeling sticky or greasy," wrote one shopper. Another added that it "makes skin feel moisturized and plump."

Even reviewers with sensitive skin had no issue with the formula. One person noticed that self-tanners were making their breakouts "substantially worse" and decided to give Tan Luxe's version a try. "I love it! It creates a much more natural-looking color, which is ideal for the face. It also smells AMAZING and I'm now wanting to try Tan Luxe products for the body too! I've only used it a handful of times, but I've definitely not had any new breakouts whilst wearing it, which I have had recently with all other tans."

As gorgeous as a good faux bronze is, $49 for a 1-ounce vial isn't exactly cheap. Despite the price tag, I personally stand by Ripa and Nordstrom shoppers' glowing reviews. These are the only drops I now use for self-tanning my face. I wrongfully assumed I could be clever and find a dupe that gave me the same results, but after testing out a few other brands' tanning drops — and spending a couple of weeks with orange skin and patchy splotches of color on my face — this was unanimously voted onto my "always worth the splurge" list.

Lock down your safe self-tanning tool kit for the summer and grab a bottle of Tan Luxe's hyaluronic acid-infused tanning drops.