
These are the best gradual tans for a faux summer glow - from xx to xx
Metro journalists select and curate the products that feature on our site. If you make a purchase via links on this page we will earn commission – learn more
Speak to any dermatologist and they'll tell you that there's no such thing as a safe natural tan so, if you're craving a sunkissed golden glow without the UV damage then fake tan is the way to go.
If you're worried about orange streaks, missing patches or would rather avoid sleeping in your tan and ruining your white cotton bed sheets, then gradual tanners are the easiest way to fake a glow.
Buildable formulas let you control the intensity of your tan and double up as hydrating body lotion, making them ideal for both first-timers and tanning pros.
Unlike instant tans, which can be unpredictable and messy, gradual tanners are a more forgiving way of getting streak-free application. More Trending
They allow you to build up colour over a few days, giving you a more natural-looking glow and plenty of room to correct if needed.
Because even a light tan from the sun is a sign of skin damage, and increasing your risk of premature ageing and skin cancer.
Whether you want a subtle warmth or a deeper bronze, we've rounded up the best gradual tanners that leave you glowing for all the right reasons.
Aussie brand Three Warriors is known for creating brilliant tans and their Natural Gradual Tan gets top marks from us. Packed with skin-nourishing aloe vera, olive oil and avocado oil, it leaves skin soft, nourished and bronzed without stickiness or a weird smell. BUY NOW FOR £34.99
A cult-classic for a reason, Dove's Summer Revived Gradual Tanning Lotion For Face & Body gives you a natural, buildable glow while keeping skin soft and hydrated. Fast-absorbing and streak-free, it works for both face and body, with no dryness or patchiness. BUY NOW FOR £4.19
Allies of Skin's Sunless Tan SPF50 is a brilliant 3-in-1 formula. Skincare first and foremost, it also gives you a gradual, natural tan, and protects with broad spectrum SPF50. Lightweight, non-greasy, and packed with antioxidants, it hydrates as it tans. BUY NOW FOR £56
Packed with exfoliating acids and a gradual tan formula, the Dr Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Glow Pad Self Tanner For Face give your skin a natural, even glow while smoothing and brightening. Quick and easy to use, they're perfect for a sun-kissed look that's streak-free and fuss-free. BUY NOW FOR £49
This lightweight formula absorbs quickly, leaving no white cast while hydrating and giving skin a natural glow. With SPF30 for sun protection and a blend of hydrating hyaluronic acid and brightening, antioxidant-rich mushroom complex it brightens your skin and keeps it sunkissed. BUY NOW FOR £20
Suitable for all skin tones, the Bondi Sands Skin Perfecting Gradual Lotion develops into a natural-looking glow while leaving skin soft, supple, and smooth. The tinted formula helps instantly blur imperfections, making it perfect for last-minute tanners or anyone wanting a bit of coverage. BUY NOW FOR £13.99
There's no need to bake in the sun for hours, with this range of brilliant gradual tanners, you can be bronzed all season.
MORE: Readers say transport spending should finally focus outside the capital
MORE: The Metro daily cartoon by Guy Venables
MORE: Could these viral Pulse Oils be the key to a restful sleep and balanced hormones?
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2 hours ago
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I thought I couldn't have kids until my 'surprise' Mounjaro baby
After being diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) aged just 15, Rachael Knight Gullette knew she'd struggle to have children. PCOS affects how the ovaries work — in particular how eggs grow and how many are released, which can make it difficult to get pregnant. 'It was my greatest fear not being about to have children,' Rachael, 41, says. 'I knew [PCOS] would make it difficult.' But Rachael and her husband Brad, 44, dreamt of having a child. After looking into IVF, the pandemic hit and 'put things on hold', so Rachael decided to focus on improving her own health to aid her fertility. She explains: 'I knew I had to change things. I had high blood pressure, cholesterol, heart palpitations and heavy water retention that had already sent me to a cardiologist.' While she 'always assumed' she'd still require fertility treatments, doctors advised the then 39-year-old that losing weight could help boost her chances of becoming a mum. 'I knew it was kind of now or never for me to have a family,' Rachael, from Kentucky, says. So in July 2022, she started taking Mounjaro, an injectable GLP-1 medication for weight loss management (also prescribed for treating type 2 diabetes in the UK). The results were remarkable, and Rachael lost 172lbs (12st 4lbs) in around 18 months, going from 22st 7lbs to 10st 3lbs. 'It changed the way my body and my brain worked,' she recalls. 'It shut off all the food noise, it helps with reward center regulation, and that's what really helped me along with helping my insulin resistance.' What surprised Rachael the most though, was how quickly the medication and subsequent weight loss affected her reproductive health, even before significant weight loss occurred. 'My cycle went from 90 days to 30 days in the first two months on the medication,' she adds. Just one month after reaching her maintenance weight, Rachael missed her period and discovered she was pregnant — without any fertility treatment whatsoever. She adds: 'I was completely shocked. We still anticipated that at 41, I would have to go through fertility treatment in addition to losing weight. But without even really trying, we ended up pregnant.' Today, Rachael and Brad are parents to seven-month-old Everett, a healthy baby boy. 'At the time, I didn't know the medication would help fertility, beyond the losing weight making it easier,' she says. 'But this was a happy surprise.' Jason Murphy, prescribing lead at Chemist4U tells Metro that it's 'important to understand' that Mounjaro isn't a fertility treatment, adding: 'It helps by addressing the underlying issue – excess weight – that may be preventing conception.' 'It is important to note that Mounjaro should not be used during pregnancy or when actively trying to conceive,' Jason says. 'Women planning to start a family should discuss stopping the medication with their healthcare provider well before, as it's not well understood how the medicine can affect a growing baby.' Dr Gareth Nye agrees, adding: 'It's also not recommended for women who are breastfeeding. This is because we do not have sufficient data on the potential danger to the growing baby. 'It is becoming clear that in women who are overweight, Mounjaro reduces the effectiveness of oral contraceptives, particularly in the first four weeks after their first injection.' Recently, there has been some evidence to suggest that Mounjaro, and other medications like it, can boost a woman's chance of getting pregnant. Dr Gareth Nye, a lecturer at Salford University and an expert in maternal and foetal health, tells Metro that while 'most of the fertility improvements come from the weight loss directly', there are other ways that Mounjaro might support fertility. He explains: 'Fat tissue produces a hormone known as leptin. This directly interacts with hormones from the brain which controls and regulates your menstrual cycles and ultimately your fertility. 'Women need some leptin in the system to allow for growth and development of the uterus but levels outside of the normal range, either too high or too low, will prevent menstrual cycles and limit fertility. PCOS sufferers will also have higher leptin levels than women who don't have the disease. 'Mounjaro will ultimately lead to a decrease in fat tissue and therefore a decrease in leptin signals which in some women will improve fertility. 'In addition, GLP-1 medications like Mounjaro have been show to improve egg ovulation.' But while getting pregnant was exactly the outcome Rachael and Brad had hoped for, that's not the case for every woman using weight loss injections. 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It works in a similar way to semaglutide – sold as Ozempic, Wegovy and Rybelsus – which are in the same family of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonist medications. Administered by weekly injections, tirzepatide changes hormone levels in the body to slow down how fast food is digested. This make you feel more full, for longer, on less food. Alongside healthy eating and exercise, this can help people lose weight. Warning it is 'not a magic bullet', Dr Kath McCullough, NHS England's national speciality adviser for obesity, said: 'Weight loss drugs, such as tirzepatide, are an important tool in helping people lose weight while also reducing the risk of other serious long-term conditions such as diabetes, strokes and heart attacks. 'However, on their own, weight loss drugs are not a magic bullet. 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Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@ View More » MORE: Inside the mind of a parent killer: 'I shouldn't have been part of that family' MORE: Six UK companies that give dads 52 weeks paid paternity leave MORE: A doctor said no one would ever love me – I proved him wrong Your free newsletter guide to the best London has on offer, from drinks deals to restaurant reviews.


Metro
2 days ago
- Metro
These are the best gradual tans for a faux summer glow - from xx to xx
Metro journalists select and curate the products that feature on our site. If you make a purchase via links on this page we will earn commission – learn more Speak to any dermatologist and they'll tell you that there's no such thing as a safe natural tan so, if you're craving a sunkissed golden glow without the UV damage then fake tan is the way to go. If you're worried about orange streaks, missing patches or would rather avoid sleeping in your tan and ruining your white cotton bed sheets, then gradual tanners are the easiest way to fake a glow. Buildable formulas let you control the intensity of your tan and double up as hydrating body lotion, making them ideal for both first-timers and tanning pros. Unlike instant tans, which can be unpredictable and messy, gradual tanners are a more forgiving way of getting streak-free application. More Trending They allow you to build up colour over a few days, giving you a more natural-looking glow and plenty of room to correct if needed. Because even a light tan from the sun is a sign of skin damage, and increasing your risk of premature ageing and skin cancer. Whether you want a subtle warmth or a deeper bronze, we've rounded up the best gradual tanners that leave you glowing for all the right reasons. Aussie brand Three Warriors is known for creating brilliant tans and their Natural Gradual Tan gets top marks from us. Packed with skin-nourishing aloe vera, olive oil and avocado oil, it leaves skin soft, nourished and bronzed without stickiness or a weird smell. BUY NOW FOR £34.99 A cult-classic for a reason, Dove's Summer Revived Gradual Tanning Lotion For Face & Body gives you a natural, buildable glow while keeping skin soft and hydrated. Fast-absorbing and streak-free, it works for both face and body, with no dryness or patchiness. BUY NOW FOR £4.19 Allies of Skin's Sunless Tan SPF50 is a brilliant 3-in-1 formula. Skincare first and foremost, it also gives you a gradual, natural tan, and protects with broad spectrum SPF50. Lightweight, non-greasy, and packed with antioxidants, it hydrates as it tans. BUY NOW FOR £56 Packed with exfoliating acids and a gradual tan formula, the Dr Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Glow Pad Self Tanner For Face give your skin a natural, even glow while smoothing and brightening. Quick and easy to use, they're perfect for a sun-kissed look that's streak-free and fuss-free. BUY NOW FOR £49 This lightweight formula absorbs quickly, leaving no white cast while hydrating and giving skin a natural glow. With SPF30 for sun protection and a blend of hydrating hyaluronic acid and brightening, antioxidant-rich mushroom complex it brightens your skin and keeps it sunkissed. BUY NOW FOR £20 Suitable for all skin tones, the Bondi Sands Skin Perfecting Gradual Lotion develops into a natural-looking glow while leaving skin soft, supple, and smooth. The tinted formula helps instantly blur imperfections, making it perfect for last-minute tanners or anyone wanting a bit of coverage. BUY NOW FOR £13.99 There's no need to bake in the sun for hours, with this range of brilliant gradual tanners, you can be bronzed all season. MORE: Readers say transport spending should finally focus outside the capital MORE: The Metro daily cartoon by Guy Venables MORE: Could these viral Pulse Oils be the key to a restful sleep and balanced hormones? Your free newsletter guide to the best London has on offer, from drinks deals to restaurant reviews.


Metro
3 days ago
- Metro
Gloriah's Pulse Point Oils are a viral sensation and now have 20% off
Metro journalists select and curate the products that feature on our site. If you make a purchase via links on this page we will earn commission – learn more We have tried and tested a whole host of vitamins and supplements in a bid to help us get a full undisturbed sleep, boost our energy levels, and regulate our hormones. But there is a new supplement that has been going viral you need to have on your radar too. Gloriah is a female founded brand that has created products to suit a host of female health concerns after the duo – one of whom is an NHS nurse, the other battles with PCOS – struggled to find solutions to their own needs. The products span across sleep support, hormone balance, and energy levels,all of which are 100% natural, hormone-free, vegan friendly and made in the UK. But it's the Energise & Unwind Duo that has garnered a lot of attention – not least because it is on offer. This duo contains two pulse oils, including Hey, Sunshine and Slow Jam, which are to be applied on the pulse points morning and night, respectively. Hey, Sunshine boasts citrus notes that work to energise the mind and body, reduce that sluggish feeling and promote focus in the Jam is to be used in the evening to de-stress, reduce anxiety and promote sleep. The products are made in the UK, contain no hormones, are non-invasive and 100% natural. BUY NOW FOR £25 Whether you are dealing with the effects of PMDD, perimenopause, PCOS or postpartum recovery, mood swings and disrupted sleep are some of the most stubborn and overlooked symptoms of hormonal imbalance, which is exactly what the Energise & Unwind Duo aim to combat. The bundle includes Hey, Sunshine pulse oil, which is to be used in the morning to energise the mind and body, combat the morning sluggishness and brain fog, as well as enhance mental clarity. The set also features Slow Jam, which is an anxiety-reducing pulse oil that promotes sleep and relaxation in the evening. Unsurprisingly Hey Sunshine is an energising scent as it boasts notes of citrus fruits, while Slow Jam boasts notes of myrrh and tonka. Both scents have been patented and clinically tested. Gloriah founders believe hormones do not just impact your monthly cycle but your brain chemistry, which is why they developed effective pulse oils that tune into your sense of smell. Why is this helpful? The scent activates the areas of your brain responsible for emotional regulation, concentration and relaxation. Putting it simply, Gloriah's products are 'scent science', coined the brand, and they are not just another perfume. The pulse oils offer a holistic and non-invasive remedy that supports your nervous system, and it doesn't rely on you consuming supplements to work. They are science-backed, mess-free and have been clinically shown to support the nervous system when things feel a little out of whack. Hey Sunshine and Slow Jam claims to sync with your hormonal rhythm and help regulate your body from morning to night. All you have to do is swipe the rollerball along the wrists and neck, then let the fragrance compounds work their magic. Gloriah reported this cult duo sold out within one week, and while the set is back in stock we predict it won't be for long, especially with Metro's exclusive discount codes. From now until 30 June, shoppers can get 15% off the Energise & Unwind Duo using the promotional code 'METRO15', or 20% off when you buy three or more products and add the code 'METRO20' at the checkout. More Trending This bundle has garnered glowing reviews from shoppers. Delilah's review read: 'I didn't think scent could change how I feel but these genuinely do. no fuss, just works', while Quinn added: 'I noticed I feel more grounded using these, like I'm not rushing as much. Nice to feel that shift.' A separate shopper, named Zara, shared: 'I didn't know scent could do this much. I love how these feel on the skin too, not sticky or heavy.' Sold. Follow Metro across our social channels, on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram Share your views in the comments below MORE: From Space NK to Mango – here's 23 items our shopping expert is buying this weekend MORE: Molly-Mae Hague shares her new holiday beauty routine including full make-up breakdown MORE: Get over £150 of beauty products for just £45 with this LOOKFANTASTIC summer edit