29-04-2025
'Best tan ever' - Beauty fans say gradual lotion leaves skin glowing naturally
With the sun finally shining and Ireland enjoying a welcome spell of mild weather, many beauty fans are looking for ways to achieve that golden summer glow without exposing their skin to harmful UV rays.
Gradual tanning products, which allow users to build a natural-looking tan over several applications, are growing in popularity - especially among those who want a sun-kissed look without the risks associated with sunbathing or tanning beds.
One product that is flying off the virtual shelves on the newly launched Amazon Ireland website is the Bondi Sands Everyday Gradual Tanning Milk, priced at just €11.71 for a 375ml bottle. It has racked up an impressive 12,000 global reviews, most of them glowing.
Known for its gradual, streak-free results and cocoa butter scent, it promises to deliver a flawless, subtle golden glow without that orange tint that can sometimes come with self-tanners. It's designed for daily use and the formula is enriched with Vitamin E and Aloe Vera, which hydrate, nourish and moisturise the skin.
Shoppers are full of praise, with some going as far as to call it the "best tan ever".
One happy customer shared: "It gives a 100% natural result even with one application (I'm very white though). I always wear a glove and I think that's the best way to apply it." Another fan added: "It's a nice tint and has a different glow to it than others, I really love it a lot."
The product has proven particularly popular among those with fair skin. One reviewer shared: "The products don't streak, and always produce a nice colour even on pale skin." Another wrote: "Love this brand for gradual tanning lotion goes on great and looks good especially with my fair skin tone it doesn't make me look orange or have a bad odor."
For those who struggle with dry spots, such as elbows and knees, this product seems to be a game-changer. One reviewer explained: "I love that the gradual tan doesn't hang onto dry spots on the skin such as elbows, cuts/scrapes, or hair removal areas. Where other tanning products produce a really dark and spotty look on dry skin, this product doesn't at all! I can use it any time, without fear. Love love love!"
Many also mentioned the moisturising benefits of the lotion. One satisfied shopper said: "It feels incredibly moisturising. The smell is not overpowering - in fact, it smells like Palmer's Cocoa butter. Interestingly, the smell actually went after several hours."
Others appreciated the ability to control their tan's depth with multiple applications, while noting that the formula dries quickly and doesn't transfer to clothes.
While the Bondi Sands Everyday Gradual Tanning Milk has overwhelmingly positive reviews, a handful of users did mention the scent as a drawback. While some loved it - "the smell is sensational, you can't smell the self-tanner at all" - others found it too strong. One user commented: "Great tan (no streaks). But the smell does give off fake tan-vibes. So best to use before going to bed, and shower in the morning if you ask me."
For more information or to buy the Bondi Sands Everyday Gradual Tanning Milk for €11.71, check it out on Amazon's Irish website here. Boots Ireland sell the exact same bottle for €17.99 here.
If you're looking for alternative options, Lookfantastic is currently offering 20% off with the code 'FLASH'. One standout deal is the Vita Liberata Untinted Fabulous Gradual Tanning Lotion (200ml), priced at €18.95 before the discount.
Meanwhile, Brown Thomas stocks the popular Bare By Vogue range, including the Tinted Gradual Tan (200ml) for €22. The retailer is also running a beauty promotion: Spend €50 and receive a €10 voucher, or spend €100 and get a €20 voucher to use on your next purchase.
