The ultimate guide to the best self-tanners and how to apply them for flawless sun-kissed skin
Zero-streak, long-lasting and easy-to-apply – the best fake tans give sublime sun-kissed skin without any fuss. New regulations about the amount of active skin-darkening ingredient DHA (dihydroxyacetone) allowed in formulas mean that many now contain only natural-origin DHA and erythrulose – a slower-developing, natural keto-sugar, which simultaneously nourishes your skin. If you’re not sure how to choose between lotions, drops, sprays and mousses, read on for our definitive guide.
Best overall: Coco & Eve Sunny Honey Sun-Kissed Gradual Tanning Lotion
Foolproof even if you’re a fake tan beginner, this silky, buildable, gradual tanning lotion delivers beautifully bronzed skin with impressive hydration. The fast-drying formula sets in minutes and develops within hours, all with minimal whiff.
Best budget: Tan-Luxe The Gradual Illuminating Tanning Lotion
This next-level lotion glides on to give a reliably brilliant, natural glow while simultaneously caring for your skin. Formulated with hydrating raspberry seed oil, vitamin E and aloe vera, it’s non-greasy and deeply nourishing.
Best face tanner: DIOR Solar The Self-Tanning Drops for Face and Neck
With 100-per-cent natural-origin DHA, and loaded with skin-loving ingredients – such as hydrating hyaluronic acid – simply massage a couple of Dior’s self-tanning drops over your face and neck for a flawless, lit-from-within radiance.
Best tanning booster: Clarins Radiance-Plus Golden Glow Booster for Body
Tanning boosters fit seamlessly into your usual routine. Simply add three or four drops of Clarins’ wonder product to your usual body moisturiser, then massage into skin for an effortless, natural warmth that doesn’t look like fake tan.
Best gradual tan: Bali Body Gradual Tan
This is where daily moisturiser meets self-tan; Bali Body’s luxe lotion allows you customise the perfect tan for your skin tone. Formulated with 100-per-cent natural DHA, simply apply in circular movements to build up the colour.
Best overnight self-tanner: Tan-Luxe The Water Hydrating Self-Tan Water
“Easiest way to apply tanner!”, raves one customer about Tan-Luxe’s Self-Tan Water. It excels in mess-free application with zero transfer; simply mist the water-based formula onto your skin and let it dry, revealing a healthy, ultra-hydrated glow in hours.
Best express tan: BY TERRY Tea To Tan Face & Body
Not keen on sleeping in self-tan? Developed using 97-per-cent naturally-derived ingredients, this much-loved water-based spray quickly dries on skin for easy, even application – and at the end of the day you can just take off. In a universal ice-tea shade to suit all skin tones and types.
Best instant tan: Clarins Self-Tanning Instant Gel
For last-minute plans there are instant tans, and the beauty experts’ favourite is Clarins’ Instant Gel. It works straight away and stays put until you wash it off before bed. Containing naturally-sourced DHA, it’s your fail-safe fast track to bronzed skin.
Best tanning drops: Caudalie Self-Tan Sun Drops
Just a couple of drops of Caudalie’s magic formula added to your moisturiser is all you need for a luminous, streak-free glow. Natural-origin DHA, erythrulose and hydrating organic grape water mean it’s a great choice for those with the most sensitive skin.
Best for sensitive skin: Pai The Impossible Tan Hydrating Self-Tan Drops
Avoid splurging on a sunless tanner that irritates your skin and instead choose Pai’s 100-per-cent natural, organic drops. Clinically proven to hydrate, they’re suitable for even the most sensitive skin. Fully customisable, they work with your skin tone to deliver a buildable, sun-kissed glow.
Best self-tan extras
The secret to applying self tan like a pro? Exfoliate and moisturise beforehand, and apply your chosen formula using a tanning mitt, sweeping in large circular motions from head to toe, lightly blending hands, elbows and feet last. And don’t forget to wash your hands.
Clinique Sparkle Skin Body Exfoliator, 200ml
£38.00£190.00 per 1L
Sol de Janeiro GlowMotions Bronze Glow Oil
£35.00£466.67 per 1L
Bali Body Antioxidant Body Whip, 225g
£28.95£128.67 per 1kg
Shiseido Tanning Compact Foundation SPF 10
£40.00£3,333.33 per 1kg
How to ‘Tan-Tour’
‘Tan-touring’ is a beauty technique that combines self-tanning with contouring. By applying self-tan strategically to areas such as cheekbones, jawline and nose, you can create a sculpted look that lasts. ‘Tan-touring’ is all about precise application, so use a complexion brush to apply your chosen product to create a defined nose, jawline and cheekbones quickly and effectively. Once you’ve applied the self-tan, diffuse the pigment using a make up sponge to remove harsh lines and give a natural finish. Then just sit back and let the ‘tan-touring’ develop.
