20 Of The Best Fake Tan Products For A Perennial Golden Glow
Forget tangerine tones and streaky-looking legs, these days, the best fake tans sink straight into the skin for a natural-looking glow. Furthermore, most tanning formulas are now also fragrance-free which means no more tell-tale biscuity smells. “When it comes to self-tan there isn’t a ‘one size fits all’ approach,” says Tan Truth expert Carly McMilla. “We’re in an era where choosing your tan can be as personal as choosing your favourite fragrance.” In fact, there’s almost too much to choose from, which is why we’ve asked the experts for their top tips on how to find the right formula for your skin.
What is the best fake tan?
Whether you want to add a little extra colour to a paler complexion or deepen and add glow to darker skin tones, rest assured, there is a formula out there for you.
“The best fake tan is a solution that offers the skin hydration and support while creating your desired glow,” says Michaella Bolder, tanning and skincare expert at St.Tropez. “Choosing the right tanning solution is essential to a natural healthy looking tan.”
As a general rule, if you have fairer skin, Bolder suggests a gradual or serum tanning solution, which you can slowly build up as needed, whereas those with medium skin tones can opt for something richer such as a mousse or lotion, while those with darker tones should choose an extra dark formula or double up using a deep, rich tanning product.
Read more: 14 Of The Best Bronzers For The Ultimate Sun-Kissed Glow
How long does fake tan last on skin?
The duration of your tan depends on a few factors: skin tone, moisture levels, whether you’ve exfoliated beforehand, how many baths you take, how rigorously you dry yourself and how hot the water is. Generally speaking your tan will last between seven to 10 days. “Fake tan is the result of a chemical reaction on the surface of the skin,” says Bolder. “This response of DHA combined with amino acids on the skin creates a golden hue that should last around the same time as your skin cell cycle.”
There are some measures you can take to prolong your tan.“It’s all in the prep and aftercare,” says McMilla. Exfoliate prior to tanning; keep the skin hydrated and well moisturised; swap baths for short, warm showers, opting for a warm temperature as opposed to hot; and pat the skin dry as opposed to rubbing it.
How do you apply fake tan?
You’ve found the right formula, now all you need to do is apply it correctly. Even the best fake tan can fail if applied incorrectly. Here’s where your prep comes in. “Before you start, it's essential to prepare your skin,” says Nicky Matthews, founder of Sienna X. “Wax or shave at least 24-48 hours before applying your fake tan to prevent dotting in open pores. Exfoliate and moisturise the night before, paying extra attention to dry areas like your elbows, hands, knees, and ankles. Avoid using deodorant, perfume, or make-up before applying your fake tan. And tie up your hair up off your face and neck.”
After that, look to a good mitt (St Tropez’s and Sienna X’s are excellent) to help buff the formula into every area of the body, or alternatively try a bronzing brush, like Isle of Paradise’s Blending Brush. “Starting with the lower body, apply the self-tan to your legs using smooth, circular movements,” says Matthews. “Next, apply the self-tan to your upper body and chest. Move on to your shoulders, blending into your neck and down your arms.” For your hands and face, Matthews recommends using the mitt excess and blending it in lightly all over, “paying attention to the hairline, around the ears, and blending well into the neck.” Alternatively you can opt for a mist for a more natural tan look. Now the hard bit: wait a typical eight (or whatever it says on the label) hours while the tan develops, without touching your tan. For this, Matthews advises wearing loose, comfortable, dark clothing and avoiding strenuous exercise and/or swimming. After the recommended development period, rinse the tan off until the water runs clear. Pat dry and moisturise.
Read more: 12 Body Care Essentials That Will Elevate Your Winter Shower Routine
Do I moisturise after fake tan?
A resounding yes. In order to achieve the best fake tan possible, and prolong its results, you must always moisturise your body, especially around the dry areas, once the tan has been thoroughly washed off.
From gels to cream, gradual tans to express colour, shop Vogue’s tried and tested edit of the best fake tans here.
- Best fake tan mousse: St Tropez Tan Luxe Crème Mousse, £35
- Best fake tan serum: Tan-Luxe Super Glow Hyaluronic Acid Serum, £36
- Best temporary fake tan: By Terry Tea To Tan Face & Body Toner, £19
- Best self-tan for the tricky bits: Isle of Paradise Pro Glow Spray Tan Mister, £10.95
- Best fake tan remover: Rose & Caramel Purity Excel 60 Second Tan Removing Scrub, £29.99
- Best natural self-tanner: Vita Liberata Heavenly Elixir, £34
- Best fake tan for paler skin: Amanda Harrington Face Mist, £4.99
- Best fake tan for darker skin tones: Bondi Sands Ultra Dark Self Tanning Foam,
£20£13.99 - Best instant tan: Charlotte Tilbury Supermodel Body Highlighter, £46
- Best luxury fake tan: Sisley Self-Tanning Hydrating Facial Skincare Fake Tan, £100
- Best body tanner: James Read Click & Glow Body Tan Drops,
£32£23