Latest news with #selftan
The Sun
7 days ago
- Business
- The Sun
Beauty fans race to buy ‘magic' Garnier tanning drops slashed from £16 to £8 on Amazon
AMAZON shoppers are rushing to pick up Garnier's bestselling tanning drops as they get slashed in price by 50%. The "magic" tanning drops retail for £16, but beauty fans can pick them up for £7.99 for a limited time. Garnier Ambre Solaire Natural Bronzer Self-Tan Drops, £7.99 (was £16) BUY HERE Infused with hyaluronic acid and coconut water, the Garnier Ambre Solaire Self Tan Drops are designed to hydrate the skin while giving a natural glow. The drops can be used alone or mixed with a moisturiser to help ensure even coverage. Depending on your desired tan, it's recommended that beauty fans apply between four and 12 drops to the skin. Tanning drops have become a beauty staple for achieving a sunkissed glow throughout the year. Fake tans for the face tend to be gentle on the skin, which is why it's advised they're used rather than traditional fake tans, which can clog he pores. As Garnier's tanning drops include skincare ingredients, the beauty buy works to provide a natural tan without causing breakouts. The affordable face tan comes with a pipette for controlling how much product is applied. Tanning drops are a great way to add some colour to your face all year round, for a glowy appearance without the skin damage. 1 Not only is the Garnier buy bestseller on the Amazon website, it's also got the celebrity stamp of approval. Influencer Mrs Hinch previously raved about the tanning drops on her Instagram, revealing that she is "obsessed" with the formula. The Garnier drops have also received glowing reviews from online shoppers. One reviewer wrote: "Bought this for going on holiday, sounds dramatic but it has been life changing! Usually I wear my make-up even on holiday because my face is so pale and it can go a little red, and fake tan never worked out on my face. This is amazing, I didn't have to wear make-up during the day at all and I've kept that up since coming home, I love it so much!" Another added: "Love these, I'm not a fake tan user, but these are perfect. They give such a natural glow all over your face, and you can build it really easily using different amounts of drops to reach your perfect tan. I've gone through a couple of bottles, as it's stopped me needing to use foundation." It's unclear how long the Garnier tanning drops will be on sale for at Amazon, so the half-price discount may end soon. Those looking to get a summer-ready glow across the whole body can also read our tried-and-tested roundup of the best fake tans.
Vogue
02-06-2025
- Health
- Vogue
The Best Tanning Water Gives an Instant, Streak-Free Bronze
You've surely heard of tanning drops—but what about it's lighter-weight, translucent counterpart? The best tanning water provides a radiant, natural bronze—no UV rays necessary. It's especially helpful for those who fear looking orange (shudders!), as the more diluted, colorless formula provides subtle sun-kissed results. According to Bethany Menzel, co-founder and creative director of Saltyface, transparent products that develop gradually are the way to go for everyday glow that's easy to maintain. 'This will make your tan routine feel maintainable and avoid transfer onto your clothing and sheets,' Menzel previously told Vogue. Miami-based board certified physician associate Paula Brezavscek knows more than a thing or two about a natural-looking tan. 'Unlike tanning drops, which are highly concentrated and typically mixed into your moisturizer, tanning waters are pre-diluted and ready to mist straight onto skin,' Brezavscek tells Vogue. Vogue's Favorite Tanning Waters In This Story Ready to get your glow on? Below are the 13 best tanning waters, according to Vogue editors, bronzing buffs, estheticians, and derms. Best Hydrating Mist: Tan-Luxe The Water Hydrating Self Tan Tan-Luxe The Water Hydrating Self Tan Water $48 BLUEMERCURY Why We Love It : Tan-Luxe's tanning water formula is enriched with vitamins B, C, and E, along with raspberry seed oil and aloe vera, providing deep hydration while delivering a natural tan. 'It's packed with vitamin E and raspberry seed oil to nourish while it tans,' says Brezavscek of this skincare-meets-bronzer option. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Brendan Camp cosigns it, too, adding the ingredients list boasts deeply hydrating benefits—plus it's paraben- and sulfate-free. : Tan-Luxe's tanning water formula is enriched with vitamins B, C, and E, along with raspberry seed oil and aloe vera, providing deep hydration while delivering a natural tan. 'It's packed with vitamin E and raspberry seed oil to nourish while it tans,' says Brezavscek of this skincare-meets-bronzer option. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Brendan Camp cosigns it, too, adding the ingredients list boasts deeply hydrating benefits—plus it's paraben- and sulfate-free. Key Ingredients : DHA, vitamin B, vitamin C, vitamin E, raspberry seed oil, aloe vera : DHA, vitamin B, vitamin C, vitamin E, raspberry seed oil, aloe vera Shades : 2 : 2 How to Use: Generously mist the tanning water directly onto skin for a hydrated, healthy glow. The fine mist ensures a mess-free application and zero transfer onto clothes and sheets. The brand recommends using it over or under a finished makeup look for hydration and added bronze. Best Viral: Gimme The Glow Down Gimme The Glow Down $13 AMAZON Why We Love It : If you haven't heard of you're missing out—over 47,000 four-star Amazon reviews have given it glowing (sorry, had to!) feedback. Suitable for face or body, the formula is infused with soothing botanically-derived ingredients, such as rose water and jojoba seed oil. : If you haven't heard of you're missing out—over 47,000 four-star Amazon reviews have given it glowing (sorry, had to!) feedback. Suitable for face or body, the formula is infused with soothing botanically-derived ingredients, such as rose water and jojoba seed oil. Key Ingredients : DHA, rose water, argan oil, coconut oil, cucumber seed oil, macadamia seed oil, avocado oil, rosehip fruit oil, jojoba seed oil, grape seed oil, vitamin C, vitamin E : DHA, rose water, argan oil, coconut oil, cucumber seed oil, macadamia seed oil, avocado oil, rosehip fruit oil, jojoba seed oil, grape seed oil, vitamin C, vitamin E Shades : 1 : 1 How to Use: The brand recommends spraying your face and body evenly keeping nozzle at least 6 inches away from skin. To ensure best results, allow the product to dry for five minutes before moving onto makeup or SPF. Best for Sensitive Skin: Dolce Glow Hydrating Face Mist Self-Tan Dolce Glow Tanning Face Mist $36 NORDSTROM Why We Love It : Dolce Glow's face mist is a luxurious, alcohol-free formula. Its ultra-fine mist ensures a streak-free application, while the blend of skin-loving ingredients provides hydration and nourishment. Thanks to the super fast absorption time, it can be sported on bare skin, as a makeup primer, or setting spray. What's more—this formula is known to be Miley Cyrus's signature base layer for glow (not to mention it's also a go-to for beauty editor-at-large Arden Fanning Andrews and fashion and style writer Christian Allaire). Best of all, the product is free from parabens, sulfates, and essential oils, making it suitable for sensitive skin. : Dolce Glow's face mist is a luxurious, alcohol-free formula. Its ultra-fine mist ensures a streak-free application, while the blend of skin-loving ingredients provides hydration and nourishment. Thanks to the super fast absorption time, it can be sported on bare skin, as a makeup primer, or setting spray. What's more—this formula is known to be Miley Cyrus's signature base layer for glow (not to mention it's also a go-to for beauty editor-at-large Arden Fanning Andrews and fashion and style writer Christian Allaire). Best of all, the product is free from parabens, sulfates, and essential oils, making it suitable for sensitive skin. Key Ingredients : DHA, sugar cane extract, cranberry extract, green tea leaf extract, macadamia oil, squalane, sodium hyaluronate, caffeine : DHA, sugar cane extract, cranberry extract, green tea leaf extract, macadamia oil, squalane, sodium hyaluronate, caffeine Shades : 1 : 1 How to Use: Dolce Glow recommends applying to a clean, dry face with eyes closed. Mist four to five pumps evenly over face, neck and décolletage. Tan development occurs within 6 to 8 hours. Best Color-Correcting: Isle of Paradise Self-Tanning Water Isle of Paradise Self-Tanning Water $32 AMAZON Why We Love It : 'Isle of Paradise is a cult-favorite. I particularly love the color-correcting undertones of this tanning water and the tropical scent that makes it feel like vacation in a bottle,' says Brezavscek. Speaking of the color-correcting actives, users can customize their tan to counteract skin concerns—just pick based on the bottle color. There's no need to rinse—it's a clear, fast-drying formula that develops over four to six hours. : 'Isle of Paradise is a cult-favorite. I particularly love the color-correcting undertones of this tanning water and the tropical scent that makes it feel like vacation in a bottle,' says Brezavscek. Speaking of the color-correcting actives, users can customize their tan to counteract skin concerns—just pick based on the bottle color. There's no need to rinse—it's a clear, fast-drying formula that develops over four to six hours. Key Ingredients : Glycerin, hydrogenated castor oil, aloe extract grapefruit peel oil, coconut oil, Peppermint oil, avocado oil* : Glycerin, hydrogenated castor oil, aloe extract grapefruit peel oil, coconut oil, Peppermint oil, avocado oil* Shades : 3 (green to neutralize redness, peach to brighten dull skin, and violet to balance yellow undertones) : 3 (green to neutralize redness, peach to brighten dull skin, and violet to balance yellow undertones) How to Use: To get the most even and natural-looking tan, start by exfoliating your skin at least 24 hours before application. Apply a light layer of moisturizer to your face to prevent product buildup. Shake the bottle and mist the tanning water liberally over your skin, holding it about six inches away. Use a kabuki brush to blend the product evenly. Simply avoid water or sweating while the tan develops. Best Refreshing: St. Tropez Self Tan Purity Bronzing Water Face Mist St. Tropez Self Tan Purity Bronzing Water Face Mist $33 BLUEMERCURY $33 AMAZON Why We Love It : St. Tropez's tanning water offers a rinse-free application that according to Brezavscek is ultra-refreshing and smells nothing like a self-tanner. 'It's perfect to spritz over makeup or as a morning pick-me-up for added bronzed glow,' Brezavscek adds. Infused with skin-loving ingredients like hyaluronic acid, hibiscus extract, and green mandarin water, this mist not only provides a radiant tan but also hydrates and refreshes the skin. : St. Tropez's tanning water offers a rinse-free application that according to Brezavscek is ultra-refreshing and smells nothing like a self-tanner. 'It's perfect to spritz over makeup or as a morning pick-me-up for added bronzed glow,' Brezavscek adds. Infused with skin-loving ingredients like hyaluronic acid, hibiscus extract, and green mandarin water, this mist not only provides a radiant tan but also hydrates and refreshes the skin. Key Ingredients : Hyaluronic acid, hibiscus extract, green mandarin water, DHA : Hyaluronic acid, hibiscus extract, green mandarin water, DHA Shades : 2 : 2 How to Use: Before using, shake the bottle well. Next, mist the tanning water generously over your face, neck, and décolletage, holding it about six inches away. There's no need to rub or blend in—the mist will absorb quickly and dry clear! For optimal results, avoid water or sweating during the development time. Reapply every few days, as needed. Best Acne-Safe: SaltyFace Tanning Water Why We Love It : 'Clean, minimal, and incredibly natural-looking, it's the glow you get after a weekend at the beach—subtle but sculpted,' says Brezavscek. Sugar beet reacts with the amino acids in the top layer of the skin to create a natural glow. Meanwhile, cucumber, marshmallow root, and calendula flower work together to create soothing hydration, thanks to their anti-inflammatory ingredients. Best of all, the formula is completely free of any acne-causing ingredients, making it this beauty writer's favorite non-comedogenic tanning pick. : 'Clean, minimal, and incredibly natural-looking, it's the glow you get after a weekend at the beach—subtle but sculpted,' says Brezavscek. Sugar beet reacts with the amino acids in the top layer of the skin to create a natural glow. Meanwhile, cucumber, marshmallow root, and calendula flower work together to create soothing hydration, thanks to their anti-inflammatory ingredients. Best of all, the formula is completely free of any acne-causing ingredients, making it this beauty writer's favorite non-comedogenic tanning pick. Key Ingredients : Organic sugar beet, cucumber, marshmallow root, calendula flower : Organic sugar beet, cucumber, marshmallow root, calendula flower Shades : 2 : 2 How to Use: Saltyface offers two application options: Using a mist topper and the brand's application brush, spritz twice on the brush's bristles and buff evenly across your face, blending into your neck and chest. To apply with your hands, dispense two dropper fulls, rub the palms of your hands together, and then evenly rub into your face and neck—just don't forget to wash your hands when you're done. Best for Legs: Sally Hansen Airbrush Legs Tanning Water Sally Hansen Airbrush Legs Tanning Water $14 $10 AMAZON Why We Love It : Sally Hansen Airbrush Legs Tanning Water is the ultimate shortcut to flawlessly bronzed legs. This lightweight, colorless mist delivers a natural-looking tan that develops in just 4 to 6 hours, leaving your skin with a luminous, sun-kissed glow. Its water-based formula ensures a streak-free, transfer-resistant finish, making it perfect for those spontaneous moments when you want to look effortlessly radiant. : Sally Hansen Airbrush Legs Tanning Water is the ultimate shortcut to flawlessly bronzed legs. This lightweight, colorless mist delivers a natural-looking tan that develops in just 4 to 6 hours, leaving your skin with a luminous, sun-kissed glow. Its water-based formula ensures a streak-free, transfer-resistant finish, making it perfect for those spontaneous moments when you want to look effortlessly radiant. Key Ingredients : DHA, glycerin, aloe leaf juice, panthenol, vitamin E : DHA, glycerin, aloe leaf juice, panthenol, vitamin E Shades : 1 : 1 How to Use: Shake the bottle well before use. Next, spray the product about six inches from your skin, directly into hands or a tanning. Then, apply the water evenly all over your legs, rubbing it into your skin with your hands or a tanning mitt. Wait about a minute before getting dressed, and wash your hands afterward. Best Micro Mist: Nuda Cloudmist Face Tan Water Why We Love It : This featherlight micro mist delivers a golden, never-orange glow with the same ease of a morning toner. When spritzed and mixed into your favorite moisturizer, it can even double as a tanning drop alternative. 'Canadian-made and super gentle, great for sensitive or breakout-prone skin. It gives that 'I woke up like this' radiance,' Brezavscek says. Translation? Mist, and mix, away! : This featherlight micro mist delivers a golden, never-orange glow with the same ease of a morning toner. When spritzed and mixed into your favorite moisturizer, it can even double as a tanning drop alternative. 'Canadian-made and super gentle, great for sensitive or breakout-prone skin. It gives that 'I woke up like this' radiance,' Brezavscek says. Translation? Mist, and mix, away! Key Ingredients : DHA, aloe leaf juice, white tea leaf extract, cucumber extract, rosehip fruit extract, chamomile flower extract, vitamin E, vitamin C, vitamin A : DHA, aloe leaf juice, white tea leaf extract, cucumber extract, rosehip fruit extract, chamomile flower extract, vitamin E, vitamin C, vitamin A Shades : 2 : 2 How to Use: Start by exfoliating skin before use. Then, apply the water to dry, bare skin on your face, neck, and décolletage by spraying in a fast, sweeping motion, allowing the tan to develop for six hours before washing off. For a more gradual tan, mix a few drops into your facial moisturizer and use daily. Best Water-to-Mousse: Fake Bake Foam Tanning Water Fake Bake Tanning Water $30 AMAZON Why We Love It : This lightweight, water-to-foam formula delivers a natural-looking tan that develops in six to eight hours, leaving your skin with a luminous, sun-kissed glow. The clear formula ensures a streak-free, transfer-resistant finish and is enriched with passionflower extract to leave skin feeling soft and refreshed. : This lightweight, water-to-foam formula delivers a natural-looking tan that develops in six to eight hours, leaving your skin with a luminous, sun-kissed glow. The clear formula ensures a streak-free, transfer-resistant finish and is enriched with passionflower extract to leave skin feeling soft and refreshed. Key Ingredients : DHA, glycerin, passion flower extract, citric acid : DHA, glycerin, passion flower extract, citric acid Shades : 1 : 1 How to Use: As always, ensure skin is freshly exfoliated before starting your tan. Apply the mouse to it to clean, dry skin using an applicator mitt, ensuring even coverage. Allow it to dry to the touch before getting dressed. For best results, wear loose, dark clothing and avoid showering or bathing for six to eight hours while your new tan develops. Best for Body: L'Oréal Sublime Bronze Self Tanning Water Mousse L'Oréal Sublime Bronze Self Tanning Water Mousse $17 $14 AMAZON Why We Love It : Cautious of tanning mousses as a novice? Consider this a fail-proof choice. Enriched with vitamin E and coconut water, it not only tans but also hydrates, leaving your skin feeling soft and refreshed. The quick-drying, streak-free finish ensures a flawless application every time, while the refreshing coconut scent adds a touch of tropical luxury. Ideal for those seeking a buildable tan, this mousse allows you to customize your glow, achieving anything from a subtle hint of color to a deeper bronze. : Cautious of tanning mousses as a novice? Consider this a fail-proof choice. Enriched with vitamin E and coconut water, it not only tans but also hydrates, leaving your skin feeling soft and refreshed. The quick-drying, streak-free finish ensures a flawless application every time, while the refreshing coconut scent adds a touch of tropical luxury. Ideal for those seeking a buildable tan, this mousse allows you to customize your glow, achieving anything from a subtle hint of color to a deeper bronze. Key Ingredients : Glycerin, DHA, castor oil, caramel, cocos nucifera fruit juice : Glycerin, DHA, castor oil, caramel, cocos nucifera fruit juice Shades : 2 : 2 How to Use: For best results, begin with clean skin and shake the bottle well before use. Pump the mousse into your hand or onto a tanning mitt, and apply evenly to your body, smoothing in circular motions. Allow the product to dry completely before dressing, avoiding water contact during the development time to ensure a flawless finish. Best for Face and Body: Tanologist Self Tan Water Why We Love It : Designed for both face and body, this clear, ultra-fine mist makes achieving your ideal glow practically effortless. The formula is featherlight—so it feels like nothing on your skin—but it's quietly hard at work, hydrating with aloe vera and vitamin E while your tan develops. Because it goes on clear, there's zero mess, no transfer, and absolutely no tell-tale streaks—just a flawless, custom bronze that builds beautifully. : Designed for both face and body, this clear, ultra-fine mist makes achieving your ideal glow practically effortless. The formula is featherlight—so it feels like nothing on your skin—but it's quietly hard at work, hydrating with aloe vera and vitamin E while your tan develops. Because it goes on clear, there's zero mess, no transfer, and absolutely no tell-tale streaks—just a flawless, custom bronze that builds beautifully. Key Ingredients : DHA, glycerin, panthenol, vitamin E, aloe extract, calendula flower oil, grapefruit extract, hydrogenated castor oil : DHA, glycerin, panthenol, vitamin E, aloe extract, calendula flower oil, grapefruit extract, hydrogenated castor oil Shades : 3 : 3 How to Use: Tanologist recommends first moisturizing dry areas (think: hands, elbows, and knees). Next, mist the water thoroughly from head to toe. For your body, use a tanning mitt gently to blend. For the face, blend with the same mitt or a kabuki brush. Best Drugstore: Sol by Jergens Deep Water Self Tanner Mousse SOL by Jergens Deep Water Self Tanner Mousse $24 $20 AMAZON Why We Love It : For a solid drugstore formula, look to Jergens's. lightweight, water-based mousse—infused with coconut water and passionfruit that yields a refreshing tropical scent and a natural-looking tan. Its dye-free formula ensures a streak-free application, and the clear mousse allows you to see where you've applied, reducing the risk of uneven color—perfect for those seeking a quick-drying, buildable tan that develops slowly but surely. : For a solid drugstore formula, look to Jergens's. lightweight, water-based mousse—infused with coconut water and passionfruit that yields a refreshing tropical scent and a natural-looking tan. Its dye-free formula ensures a streak-free application, and the clear mousse allows you to see where you've applied, reducing the risk of uneven color—perfect for those seeking a quick-drying, buildable tan that develops slowly but surely. Key Ingredients : DHA, glycerin, citric acid, coconut water, tocopheryl acetate, : DHA, glycerin, citric acid, coconut water, tocopheryl acetate, Shades : 2 : 2 How to Use: Start with a fresh canvas—exfoliate the day before to sweep away dead skin and prep for a smooth, even glow. Just before you tan, dab a bit of moisturizer onto dry spots like elbows, knees, and ankles. Give the bottle a good shake, then pump the airy mousse onto your tanning mitt. Glide over your skin in long, confident strokes—this formula blends like a dream. Let it fully dry before slipping into loose clothes, and resist the urge to shower while your tan develops. Best Hydrating: Self Glow by James Read Tanning Mist Self Glow by James Read Tanning Mist $46 SELFRIDGES Why We Love It : I got my first-ever spray tan with expert James Read during my pre-Met Gala prep. He eased my fake tan phobia with his featherlight touch that gave me the same bronze I'd get from a day in the sun. While we can't all have the pleasure of Read's expert spray tanning skills every week, his brand, Self Glow, gives a close second, combining all his expertise in one bottle. Infused with 87% rosewater, fermented rose petals, and triple-active hyaluronic acid, the formula hydrates and plumps the skin while you sunless tan. The addition of fermented aloe vera soothes and enhances absorption, making it perfect for sensitive skin. : I got my first-ever spray tan with expert James Read during my pre-Met Gala prep. He eased my fake tan phobia with his featherlight touch that gave me the same bronze I'd get from a day in the sun. While we can't all have the pleasure of Read's expert spray tanning skills every week, his brand, Self Glow, gives a close second, combining all his expertise in one bottle. Infused with 87% rosewater, fermented rose petals, and triple-active hyaluronic acid, the formula hydrates and plumps the skin while you sunless tan. The addition of fermented aloe vera soothes and enhances absorption, making it perfect for sensitive skin. Key Ingredients : Rosewater, sodium hyaluronate, DHA, rose extract, aloe leaf juice, glycerin, vitamin C : Rosewater, sodium hyaluronate, DHA, rose extract, aloe leaf juice, glycerin, vitamin C Shades : 1 : 1 How to Use: Hold the bottle about six inches away from your face. Ensure your skin is clean, and product-free. Close your eyes and mist the left and right sides of your face. Finish off by misting the front and back of your neck. Everything You Need To Know
The Guardian
28-05-2025
- Health
- The Guardian
The best fake tan, tried and tested, for a sunkissed, streak-free glow
The wise among us would never forgo our safe-sun protocol, but there's no denying that many of us feel happier and healthier with a tan. The irresistible lure of sunkissed skin has long been a summer staple – and from tanning waters to wipes, instant tans to gradual tanning moisturisers, there are now more ways than ever to get a faux glow. The Guardian's journalism is independent. We will earn a commission if you buy something through an affiliate link. Learn more. There's also been a growing demand for multitasking beauty products, so the newest fake tan formulas often add skincare benefits alongside the bronze. Self-tans infused with hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and vitamin C hydrate, nourish and protect much like your usual body cream or facial serum. As with all skincare, there's no one-size-fits-all; what works for you very much depends on your skin tone and type, not to mention the time you have to perfect your glow. While clear tanning waters and fast-drying mousses are great for developing a golden tan overnight, you can find even more express options in the form of serums or drops, so you can float into the office just a few hours later with a post-holiday-worthy glow. Then there are the gradual tanners – the hydrating moisturising lotions that reign supreme in the world of the budget self-tan. These are great for beginners, letting you build your glow slowly – apply Monday to Friday, and by the weekend you'll have beautifully bronzed skin. To help you pick, I tested my way through the noise to find the products that will give you a seamless sunkissed colour. Best fake tan overall: Bare by Vogue Williams clear tan water£22.50 for 150ml at Debenhams Best budget fake tan:Boots Glow tanning milk£6 for 300ml at Boots Best fake tan drops: Caudalíe Self-Tan sun drops£19 for 15ml at John Lewis Best fake tan for mature skin: St Tropez Luxe body serum£12.50 for 200ml at Amazon Best gradual tan: This Works Perfect Legs gradual tan£33.60 for 150ml at John Lewis Best fake tan with a mitt:Bali Body Deep Violet self-tanning mousse£37 for 200ml at Bali Body I'm an experienced beauty and lifestyle journalist who's reviewed and written about everything from LED masks and beauty blenders to mascaras and moisturisers – but I still fear applying fake tan. I love the sunkissed look, though, so gradual tanning moisturisers and drops have become my go-to, and I've pretty much tried them all in my quest to replicate that holiday glow at home. I'm also the busy mother of two young boys, so everything in my skincare routine needs to work without fuss. In short, if I've found these products foolproof, then I'm sure most others will too. I've used some of the clear tanning waters, serums, mousses, gradual tanning lotions, facial tanning drops and self-tan wipes included here for years (and retested for this piece), while others are new formulas that hit the mark in my testing. With so many fake tan products out there – many of which perform well – it was difficult to whittle this edit down to the 10 best. I spritzed, sprayed and slathered myself in more than 20 self-tan products over five weeks (seriously, my exfoliating mitt has never seen so much action), considering everything from ease of application to colour payoff and staying power, while also noting each product's texture, fragrance and cost. These are my top recommendations. £22.50 for 150ml at Debenhams£23 for 150ml at Boots Bare by Vogue Williams' tanning products have garnered hundreds of five-star reviews since launching in 2019. And when the clear tan water, one of its bestsellers, can take you from winter ravaged to suitably summer in as little as four hours, it's easy to see why. Why we love itI loved this winning formula's light and subtle scent and, rather surprisingly, it was also one of the most hydrating. Thanks to ingredients such as fruit extracts and aloe vera, skin feels smooth rather than sticky on application, with the lightweight formula drying quickly, with no need to wash off. The clear tan water sprays out as a colourless foam, meaning you'll have to work quickly or you won't be able to use the formula's glisten to see any areas you might have missed before it dries. I'd usually opt for the medium shade, but tried the dark here and it was perfect. The tan developed evenly over four hours, and three days later, I was still sporting a gorgeous, even golden glow without any dryness. Even my bed sheets were spotless. It's a shame that … it doesn't come in a bigger bottle. Suitable for: all skin types; those looking for a no-rinse tan Development time: four to eight hoursIs it vegan-friendly? Yes £6 for 300ml at Boots Big-name brands such as Dove and Garnier tend to dominate the gradual tanning category, but this excellent, budget-friendly tanning milk from Boots definitely gives its more popular counterparts a run for their money. Why we love itDesigned to be applied just as you would a normal body lotion, this light, milky formula melts into skin. It leaves the skin feeling soft and nourished, and with the ever-so-slight hue of honey. And if you're worried about the smell, don't be – the uplifting coconut scent on application will transport you to sunnier climes, and it dries to almost fragrance-free. Just one application is enough to see subtle results, so it's great for tanning beginners or those with pale skin. For a deeper bronzed look, continue applying daily. At just £6 for a 300ml bottle, this is a budget buy that's hard to beat. It's a shame that … the coconut scent doesn't last on the skin – but no scent is better than lingering fake tan smell any day. Suitable for: pale skin tones; those looking for a buildable tan Development time: up to eight hoursIs it vegan-friendly? Yes £19 for 15ml at John Lewis£19 for 15ml at Look Fantastic With absolutely zero odour, these brilliant and beautifully gentle fake tan drops from French skincare label Caudalíe deliver a sunning-it-up-on-a-yacht glow – with no stickiness, patchiness or marks on your pillow. Why we love it I've tried my fair share of tanning drops over the years, but Caudalíe's drops have fast become a firm favourite. Lightweight and super easy to incorporate into your routine – just add two to six drops to your usual moisturiser – you'll have an even, radiant glow by lunchtime. Infused with the brand's signature grape water to deliver an extra boost of hydration, this formula is the perfect base for makeup. I found two drops super subtle on my skin – four seemed perfect for me – and colour faded naturally over a couple of days, despite using acids in my evening skincare routine. Perfect for a range of skin tones. It's a shame that … you'll need to apply six drops or more for a deeper tan. Suitable for: all skin tones; those who prefer a more natural-looking finishDevelopment time: three to four hoursIs it vegan-friendly? Yes £23.33 for 200ml at Boots£12.50 for 200ml at Amazon Trust the OG of fake tan formulas to deliver yet another outstanding self-tanning product. St Tropez's feather-light serum blends niacinamide with a collagen-enhancing complex to feel super hydrating, and delivers a beautiful, natural-looking finish. Why we love itFrom the lightweight, non-greasy texture to the subtle floral scent, the Luxe body serum is a dream to apply. Infused with active ingredients such as niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5, the formula works to hydrate, firm, soothe and even tone, making it a great option for all skin types but particularly those with mature skin who want to improve elasticity and reduce the appearance of crepiness. The serum pumps out beautifully, with its lightly golden colour helping to guide application. It blends seamlessly and dries quickly without any tackiness (a huge plus, considering it's a no-rinse formula). The result? My skin was a natural-looking bronze and felt well nourished. It's a shame that … the colour is on the subtler side, so you may need a second application if you're looking for a darker tan. Suitable for: an overnight tan; those who want a no-rinse formulaDevelopment time: eight hoursIs it vegan-friendly? Yes £33.60 for 150ml at John Lewis£33.60 for 150ml at Amazon If you want to ease yourself into the bronzed life, a gradual tan lotion is the best way to do it. This moisturising formula from This Works comes packing shea butter, natural caramel and vitamin C to hydrate and nourish as it gets to work on the colour. And don't be put off by the name: it's great for an all-over glow, not just your legs. Why we love itGuide colour can be helpful for avoiding missed areas, but it can also be alarming at first glance. Don't let the deep caramel colour of this product deter you – it blends beautifully into the skin, giving it an instant but subtle tint that darkens over time. The sumptuous, premium-feeling formula absorbed quickly and left my skin soft and velvety as it dried. The combination of geranium and sweet orange oils gives it a pleasant scent, and the slight shimmery finish works well to blur any blemishes. It's a shame that … it's a bit pricey for an everyday moisturiser, so you might want to save it for special occasions. Suitable for: all skin types; those who want a blemish-blurring instant glowDevelopment time: four to eight hoursIs it vegan-friendly? Yes Sign up to The Filter Get the best shopping advice from the Filter team straight to your inbox. The Guardian's journalism is independent. We will earn a commission if you buy something through an affiliate link. after newsletter promotion £37 for 200ml at Bali Body There may be more ways to get a faux glow than ever before, but sometimes you just can't beat the classic mousse and mitt combo. The Bali Body Deep Violet self-tanning mousse is a velvety, whipped formula that's super easy to apply and gives a rich, olive-toned colour in six to eight hours. Why we love itFormulated with a violet base to counteract yellow and orange undertones, it's enriched with nourishing oils and tanning boosters for longer-lasting results. This one is definitely for the tanning enthusiasts who want to take their glow to the next level. The mousse glides on effortlessly with the mitt and takes just minutes to absorb into the skin. It's free of the unpleasant chemical or biscuit-like scent usually associated with tanning products, and promises up to seven days of bold, even colour – and I can report that four days later, it's still going strong. No orange, no streaks; just a perfect golden glow. It's a shame that … it's a tad more expensive than your average mousse tan. Suitable for: medium complexions with yellow or orange undertonesDevelopment time: six to eight hoursIs it vegan-friendly? Yes £49 for eight at Space NK Best for: an express tan for special occasions I can't resist a multitasker that promises to streamline my tanning routine, so when Dr Dennis Gross launched the Alpha Beta Glow Pads that allow you to exfoliate and tan in one step, I had to give them a go. The waffle-texture towel is infused with glycolic and salicylic acids, vitamin E and phospholipids to smooth, polish and hydrate the skin as it tans. The formula is quick to dry and produces a gorgeous, even colour, without any tell-tale streaks on my bedsheets the following morning. I highly recommend moisturising and using SPF when it dries to protect the colour. It didn't make the final cut because … a tan wipe isn't the easiest and most sustainable way to apply tan, in my opinion. While I loved the glow this product gave, certain areas were missed, and I was conscious that I was getting a lot of the product on my hands. At £49 for eight wipes, it's also quite expensive. Suitable for: dull skin lacking radianceDevelopment time: one hourIs it vegan-friendly? Yes £22 for 200ml at Boots £21 for 200ml at Amazon Best for: a hydrating mousse tan There's a guide colour to help you see where you're applying your tan, which makes this lightweight mousse effortless to apply, and any initial stickiness fades as it dries, leaving skin feeling soft. Still, I'd recommend applying it before bed and washing it off in the morning to reveal a natural-looking glow (don't worry, your bedsheets will be safe!) It didn't make the final cut because … despite my best efforts, it did start to show signs of patchiness after a few days, and it's not the easiest to remove. Suitable for: those who prefer a classic tanning mousseDevelopment time: four to six hoursIs it vegan-friendly? Yes £17.95 for 150ml at Allbeauty£24 for 150ml at Look Fantastic Best for: prolonging your holiday tan While I'm an avid SPF user, there are times when, even in the UK, the sun can catch you off-guard. Cue Ultrasun's After Sun tan booster, a soothing after-sun that's enriched with a gradual self-tan to help you maintain or build your bronzed glow. Its light texture absorbs quickly, locking in moisture and quenching the skin without a hint of heaviness – and the final colour looks really natural. It didn't make the final cut because … this is undeniably great for a winter boost, but most will prefer this as a soothing after-sun. Suitable for: all skin types; soothing sun-parched bodiesDevelopment time: eight hoursIs it vegan-friendly? Yes £16 for 95ml at Tropic Best for: an instant tan When you need visibly smoother, tanned and toned skin in a hurry, this innovative formula from Tropic is just the tonic. The wash-off serum adapts to your skin tone for even coverage, lightly blurs imperfections and instantly makes you look more radiant. At first glance, I was a little concerned by the gold shimmer, but it was super subtle on contact with the skin and the product blended seamlessly without any stickiness. It contains vitamin C, arnica extract and skin-toning coffee butter to nourish the skin, and I loved the sweet coconut and grapefruit scent. It didn't make the final cut because … a lot of product transfers on to hands, so I'd highly recommend buffing with a fake tan brush if you can get hold of one. Suitable for: a quick fix; those who want instant resultsDevelopment time: instantIs it vegan-friendly? Yes Opt for a fake tan product that's suitable for your skin type to help prevent irritation and ensure a longer-lasting tan. 'If you're someone who has particularly dry skin, a lotion would be ideal to lock in moisture, while oily or acne-prone skins should look for non-comedogenic mousses or sprays,' suggests Emily Rose Lansley, facialist, manicurist and tanning expert to A-listers including Florence Pugh and Jourdan Dunn. 'If you're someone who has sensitive skin, look for fragrance-free options to avoid any irritation,' she adds. If you're ready to make winter pallor a thing of the past, you'll need to put in the work beforehand. Exfoliate with a salt scrub and moisturise 24 hours in advance to create a hydrated base for your tan. This will help prevent a patchy finish and ensure your tan goes the distance. You should also do any hair removal 24 hours before tanning to give your skin time to recover. 'Typically, a fake tan will last about five to seven days,' says Lansley. 'Moisturising daily with an oil-free moisturiser – this is important, as oil will break down the tan – will keep the skin hydrated and prolong your tan. Avoid chlorine and taking long baths.' Moisturising skin after exfoliating is vital before applying fake tan. 'It will prevent your skin from becoming dehydrated and scaly,' says Lansley. 'Moisturising also prevents the tan from clinging to dry patches, so pay close attention to areas such as knees, elbows and ankles 24 hours before you tan.' The best way to lift a fake tan is to exfoliate gently and use a dedicated fake tan remover. These usually include exfoliating acids such as salicylic acid to gently break down the tanning agents and smooth the skin. And to avoid those tell-tale orange palms? 'Always wear a mitt when you're self-tanning, and wash your hands thoroughly after use,' says Lansley. Danielle Wilkins is a lifestyle journalist and former magazine editor with almost two decades of experience writing about beauty, parenting and all things weddings for some of the biggest names in publishing. When she's not reviewing the latest products in skincare, running in the gym or sitting front row at Bridal Week, she's acting as a human climbing frame for her two young boys and dreaming about hot coffee
Times
18-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Times
15 best fake tans for summer 2025, from subtle serums to bronzing drops
In 2025 it's only fools who lie supine in the sun in pursuit of a tan. The wise get it out of a bottle, safe in the knowledge that it's not damaging their skin, ageing it prematurely or, worse, causing cancer. And thanks to endless innovation, it has never been easier to achieve a uniform glow that doesn't streak, smell or transfer on to your clothes and sheets. • This article contains affiliate links that can earn us revenue 'From mousses to mists, next-gen self-tan products are more than just bronzers,' says James Read, the A-list tanner whose clients include Rosie Huntington-Whiteley and Victoria Beckham. 'They have skin-kind ingredients and are customisable, making them foolproof for self-tan beginners.' So which is right for you? Read
