It's no secret that I love a bronzed, glowing complexion. Read any of my articles, and you'll find me chatting away about the best tanning drops, bronzers, illuminating primers and more, as I'm always on a mission to make my complexion look as if I spend all year in the sunshine. There are a few hero products I rely on, such as Chanel's iconic Les Beiges Healthy Glow Bronzing Cream and the Three Warriors Hydrabronze Face Tan Drops. However, one product I hear editors raving about time and time again is By Terry's Tea to Tan Face & Body.

With summer in full swing, I decided to try it out myself, and wow. I can see why everyone raves about this stuff. It's basically a natural-looking, sunkissed glow in a bottle, with absolutely no developing time. Spritz, blend and go. The best bit? It has a totally matte finish, so you don't have to worry about any shimmer. If you want to learn more about my new ride-or-die, keep on scrolling...

By Terry Tea to Tan Face & Body Review

The Formula

So, how does this magical stuff work? As the name suggests, the formula is infused with red and black tea extracts, alongside an active bio-cherry fruit essence. These extracts temporarily "tan" the skin, adding a bronzed finish whilst also smoothing the complexion. As mentioned, this product doesn't need time to develop. Instead, it comes with a handy guide colour so you know exactly what sort of finish you're getting. In my opinion, this takes all the stress out of using fake tan. The product currently comes in one universal shade, but would add more of a warm, sun-kissed effect to darker skin tones, rather than a very deep tan. I'd love to see a wider range of shades from the brand in the future.

The Application

There are lots of ways to apply By Terry Tea to Tan, but after rigorous testing, I believe I've found the best method for the most natural finish. When it comes to the face, I like to spray a small amount onto the back of my hand, then take a flat bronzing brush and buff the product into my skin. You can apply it all over or focus on the areas where the sun naturally hits, such as the tops of the cheeks, nose and forehead. If I'm tanning my décolletage, I tend to use a similar method. But if I'm doing larger areas of my body, such as my legs, I like to spray it directly onto the skin and use a large brush or my fingertips to blend it in.

The Results

After a week spent inside recovering from a nasty throat infection, it's safe to say that I wasn't looking my best. There might have been a heatwave in London, but my complexion would have anyone thinking it's the middle of winter. For my grand return to the office, I knew I could rely on By Terry's Tea to Tan to bring my skin back to life. I applied it everywhere I would my usual bronzer, and it left me looking suitably sunkissed. It took me about two minutes to take my skin from lacklustre to luminous, and I even skipped foundation thanks to how confident this product made me feel. I love how quick, easy and fuss-free it is, and now I'm struggling to imagine what I ever did without it. Fair play, By Terry, fair play.

Shop By Terry Tea to Tan Face & Body

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Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

Every year, without fail, my legs emerge from winter hibernation looking exactly as you'd expect after spending the majority of the year hiding beneath jeans, tights and thick socks. That is, startlingly pale. Whilst the rest of me might have picked up the occasional hint of sunshine (although I am militant about my daily SPF), my legs seem almost immune to developing a natural glow, remaining resolutely milk-bottle white well into summer.

Whilst I spent a lot of my teenage years and early twenties feeling intensely self-conscious about them, I can’t say that the colour of my legs gives me much pause for thought these days. (Despite the fact, maybe, that I have resolutely avoided wearing shorts for the vast majority of my adult life.) But during the recent heatwave, when knee-skimming dresses and shorts became less of a choice and more of a necessity, I found myself feeling surprisingly insecure about baring them. It's not a feeling I particularly like having, and I wore the shorts regardless, but it did send me searching for a quick confidence boost.

The obvious solution would have been fake tan, but I'm realistic enough to know it's just not for me. I'm impatient, not especially skilled at applying it, and the thought of waiting for colour to develop (whilst hoping I haven't missed an ankle or stained my bedsheets) is enough to put me off before I've even started. Which is why tinted leg serums have become my new beauty best friend. Think of them as makeup for your legs—they are lightweight formulas that instantly add a believable wash of warmth, subtly blur uneven tone and leave skin looking healthier and glossier in a matter of minutes. Best of all, if you make a mistake, or simply decide you don't fancy bronzed legs tomorrow, it all washes off in the shower at the end of the day.

After testing a selection, I can see exactly why they are already a bit of a summer beauty shortcut for so many. Sure, they won't satisfy anyone looking for a really deep, week-long holiday tan, and the finish is generally much more natural than traditional self-tanner, but if you're after something that takes your legs from "haven't seen daylight since October" to "well-rested and subtly sun-kissed" in under five minutes, then they've completely won me over. Ahead, these are the formulas I'd happily reach for all summer long.

The Best Tinted Leg Serums

• Best Overall: This Works Perfect Legs Skin Miracle, £45
• Best for smoothing uneven skin tone: Beauty Pie Nice Legs Tinted Super Blur Body Lotion, £32
• Best for dry legs: Gatineau Golden Glow Blurring Body Bronze, £40
• Best for faking a tan fast: Dripping Gold Skin Sheen, £13
• Best for a natural glow: Erborian CC Body, £35
• Best for special occasions: Fenty Beauty Body Lava Body Luminizer, £46

1. This Works Perfect Legs Skin Miracle

When I think of tinted leg serums, it's this one that springs to mind first as one of the OG formulas in this category. If you are as averse to fake tan as I am, then this is a great product to start with, as it feels almost like applying a body lotion. It's silky, lightweight, and there's plenty of blending time with it so you can really work it into the skin before it sets without rushing. Rather than a total colour transformation, it simply makes my legs look a bit healthier—kind of like I've spent a long weekend outdoors in the sunshine.

I also appreciate how comfortable it feels on the skin throughout the day. Even during the recent hot weather, it never felt sticky or heavy, and there were no noticeable streaks or patches either. I was nervous about it leaving marks on my clothing or furniture (especially considering how damn sweaty I've been during the heat), but it stayed put until I washed it off at the end of the day. If you have any nerves around instant bronzing, I'd recommend starting here as it's so easy to use and gives the perfect natural glow.

2. Beauty Pie Nice Legs Tinted Super Blur Body Lotion

3. Gatineau Golden Glow Blurring Body Bronze

4. Dripping Gold Skin Sheen

I really wasn't expecting to like this product much, as it looked like a bit of a faff to apply and reminded me of a classic tanning product. However, not only is this incredibly easy to spritz on when you're in a rush, but the colour payoff is incredible. The spray means that you can cover large areas really quickly before buffing it straight in with a tanning mitt. And compared with some of the more subtle formulas, this delivered a really strong bronze colour to my legs immediately. I also liked that you have the option of shaking up the bottle for a glowy shine or leaving the formula still for a matte finish. The only thing to be wary of is that the mist application means it can get a little messy. It's worth popping a towel underfoot to catch any overspray.

5. Erborian CC Body

6. Fenty Beauty Body Lava Body Luminizer

How I Tested

To find the best tinted leg serums, I tested each one on my naturally very fair skin, assessing how easy they were to apply, how natural the colour looked, whether they transferred onto clothing, how comfortable they felt throughout the day, and how easily they washed away at night.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products over the years—spanning skincare, makeup, hair and nails—and work closely with trusted experts including dermatologists, makeup artists and leading industry insiders to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

I have a confession to make. When it comes to makeup, I can't contour. You may be thinking, "Is it really that big of a deal?" In the grand scheme of things, of course, it's not, but as a beauty editor and a qualified makeup artist, it feels rather silly to say that I'm not very good at recreating one of the biggest makeup trends of 2026.

The worst bit is that I own some of the best contour sticks on the market, and I still find it difficult to carve out my (somewhat non-existent) cheekbones. The thing is, I want a subtle contour that makes it look as if my face is naturally sculpted, but that seems to be the hardest thing to achieve.

So, when I attended a masterclass with legendary makeup artist Wendy Rowe, and she put "tantouring" on my radar, I was immediately intrigued. A natural, luminous and easy-to-achieve way to do contouring this summer that involves no bronzer whatsoever, it might just be my new favourite thing. Keep on scrolling to learn more...

What Is Tantouring?

As the name suggests, tantouring is all about contouring with fake tan, rather than your go-to bronzer. "Tantouring is about subtly creating structure and definition. It’s contouring, but through tone rather than makeup," explains Rowe. "I’ve always believed skin should look like skin, and what I love about tantouring is that it doesn’t sit on top of the face—it becomes part of it."

So, what does this involve? "You’re subtly warming and defining the areas where the sun would naturally catch—the cheekbones, temples, jawline—so the face looks healthy, lifted and rested," Rowe tells me. "It’s incredibly sophisticated because it’s seamless. You almost can’t see what’s been done; you look better."

How to Tantour

Sounds pretty good, right? Although I was completely sold by the sound of tantouring, I was a little worried that I wouldn't be able to do it at home. However, it couldn't be easier. "The key with tantouring is to keep it light and intuitive," explains Rowe. "I recommend doing it at night, because it works beautifully as an overnight skin treatment as well as a complexion enhancer."

Rowe advises starting with clean skin, and then mixing a few drops of your chosen tanning drops (she uses the Three Warriors Hydrabronze Tan Drops) into your moisturiser, and applying it all over the face for "hydration and warmth".

Next, take a soft brush and apply the product onto the areas where you would use your usual contour stick or powder. Rowe recommends applying the drops under the cheekbones, around the temples, along the jawline, and even lightly through the eye socket.

"The beauty of it is that you won’t really see it going on," she says. "It’s sheer, seamless, and very forgiving. There’s no harsh contour stripe, no obvious tan line. You’re essentially laying down tone and structure that develops over time. The next morning, you wake up looking fresher, healthier and more defined."

My Tantouring Results

I have to say, I was a bit skeptical about trying this method myself, but it couldn't have been easier. I applied my tanning drops in the evening and woke up with a natural-looking, bronzed and sculpted complexion. I went in with my foundation in the morning and skipped bronzer altogether, letting my tantour do all the talking throughout the day. Not only did this save me time in the morning, but I was obsessed with the seamless result. I'll definitely be doing this the entire summer.

The Best Products for Tantouring

I love being tanned, but I hate fake tanning. Yes, I've tried some of the best fake tans on the market, but I can never get a flawless finish. Whether it's patches around my knees and elbows, or some very orange hands, no matter how hard I try, I can't get it right. With summer approaching, I've been desperate to find an alternative, and I think I might have just done it. Enter, tanning milks.

As strange as it sounds, milk seems to be a big beauty trend this season. From milky nails to milky toners, I'm actually a big fan, but tanning milks are definitely my favourite invention to date. As the name suggests, these products have light, milky consistencies, and unlike tanning foam, they don't have a guide colour. That would usually concern me, but you can apply these products as you would a body lotion and achieve the most gorgeous, natural-looking finish without any streaks.

I'm such a fan that I've taken it upon myself to try some of the most popular tanning milks on the market, and have rounded up my top picks below. Keep on scrolling if you want to glow like never before this summer...

The Best Tanning Milks, Tried and Tested

• Best Tanning Milk Overall: Bali Body Self Tanning Milk, £27
• Best Natural-Looking Tanning Milk: Bondi Sands Everyday Gradual Tanning Milk, £14
• Best Scented Tanning Milk: Boots Glow Tanning Milk, £6
• Best Face Tanning Milk: Bali Body Face Tan Milk, £22

1. Bali Body Self Tanning Milk

First up is my go-to tanning milk at the moment. In fact, since getting my hands on this, I've been applying it non-stop. It has such a lightweight, hydrating consistency (packed with hyaluronic acid, ceramides and vitamin C, btw) and is so easy to apply. The brand recommends using a tanning mitt, but I actually go straight in with my hands, and I wash them thoroughly after applying. The product sinks into the skin in seconds, doesn't transfer, and if I apply it at night, I wake up in the morning with the most beautiful golden glow. One application definitely gives a more natural finish, but it's actually really easy to build up the colour. I like to apply it two to three nights in a row for the perfect finish. Since adding this product to my body care routine, fake tanning has never been so simple.

2. Bondi Sands Everyday Gradual Tanning Milk

If you want it to look as if you've spent a couple of days in the South of France, this Bondi Sands tanning milk is the one for you. The consistency is a little richer than the option above, but it still absorbs into the skin quickly and feels nice and hydrating. It gives such a natural-looking tan that you can actually use it daily to keep that golden glow year-round. Plus, the pump format makes it so easy to use. I will say this probably has the strongest fake-tan smell out of all the options I tried, but the finish is so good that I'll overlook it.

3. Boots Glow Tanning Milk

Boots has created an incredibly affordable option that, unlike others in this roundup, has less of a fake-tan scent and more of a faint, coconutty aroma. Similar to the Bali Body tanning milk, it has a very lightweight consistency and feels just like a body lotion. I would still recommend exfoliating your skin in the shower before using this product, but I was so impressed with the even application and golden finish it gave. For under £10, you seriously can't go wrong with this stuff this summer.

4. Bali Body Face Tan Milk

After testing out (and falling in love with) the tanning milks above, I was delighted to see an option for my face, too. I usually mix a few tanning drops in with my moisturiser, but this milky lotion is so much easier to apply. Similar to Bali Body's tanning milk, it is full of skin-loving ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, ceramides and vitamin C, and is designed to be the final step in your skincare routine (before SPF, of course). One thing I found a little confusing was that the instructions advised applying 3-5 drops, but it doesn't have a pipette applicator, making it hard to measure. Instead, I take a small amount and apply it evenly all over my face, and the result is a natural-looking glow that always earns me compliments. It is definitely more on the subtle side, but easy to build upon if you prefer a darker tan.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products over the years— spanning skincare, makeup, hair and nails—and work closely with trusted experts including dermatologists, makeup artists and leading industry insiders to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

As deputy beauty editor at Who What Wear UK, I write lots of guides on the best beauty products. Not only that, but as a fake tan aficionado, I am constantly testing, trying and typing up the best tanning drops, tanning serums, bronzers and more. No matter what the month, I've made it my mission to look as if I've just stepped off a plane all year round.

Although there are plenty of good options on the market, for me to write an entire article on one self-tan product, it's got to be great. Enter the Dior Solar Self-Tanning Drops.

It's no secret that Dior is one of the most luxurious beauty brands out there, so when I heard that tanning drops were about to launch, I knew they'd look chic, but whether the formula would match the aesthetic was a whole other story. When a sample landed on my desk, I tried not to get carried away by the shimmery bottle and gold pipette-style applicator, and instead, told myself I'd put the tanning drops through their paces before deciding if they deserved a place in one of my many tanning roundups.

Two days later, my glow was so good that I cleared my calendar to type up this in-depth review and share the easiest (and chicest) way to trick everyone into thinking you've just been in the French Riviera. I'm pretty good at predicting the next big thing in beauty, and I can almost guarantee that the most stylish of people will be using this exact product throughout the summer.

But why, I hear you ask. First of all, how good do they look? I know, I know, the formula is more important, but let's face it, who doesn't want their bathroom cabinet filled with beautiful things? Secondly, they don't leave your skin feeling super dehydrated. While DHA (the ingredient that actually makes your skin look tan) is typically quite drying, these drops are packed with hyaluronic acid to help counteract the dryness and leave your skin feeling silky soft.

The brand recommends applying the product directly to the skin before your moisturiser; however, I actually mix the two products to get the most radiant result. The great thing is you can basically use these drops however you want to customise your glow.

As you can see, the formula is infused with golden pearlescent pigments, adding a hint of shimmer that makes your complexion look so luminous. The golden undertones also ensure a natural-looking tan that lasts for a good few days before needing to be reapplied. If you don't like any shimmer on your skin, then you've been warned, as these are definitely on the more iridescent side, but I'm personally a big fan.

All in all, they look chic, are easy to use and actually work. Yep, Dior has knocked it out of the park with this one. Prepare to see this product all over social media.

Shop the Dior Solar Self-Tanning Drops

Shop More Dior Tanning Essentials

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including some skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

Fake tans for dark skin tones have been overlooked for decades. Most formulas on the market have traditionally catered to light skin, overlooking the undertones and depth needed for deep complexions. However, fake tan formulations (along with bronzer and bronzing drops shade ranges) have come a long way, and with Black-founded brands such as Caribé expertly catering to the needs of dark complexions within the tanning space, there are now more tailored formulations of fake tan for dark skin tones.

"A common misconception of fake tan is that it is only used to darken skin," says Phoebe Ellis, co-founder of Caribé. "On darker complexions, however, this isn't the sole aim—we use fake tan to enhance what’s already there by evening out tone, boosting warmth and blurring the appearance of dark spots," she says.

"Historically, tanning was never an option for us because the tones on the market just weren't cutting it. The depth wasn't there," she adds, also mentioning that, of course, fake tan is a safer way to achieve a glow without the risk of sun damage. "You can have the option for getting your summer glow back without compromising on your skin health and lying out in the sun all holiday just to keep the tan up."

Ahead, Ellis shares her expertise about what to look for when considering the best fake tans for dark skin, plus all the tips and tricks to make sure your application is on point; whilst I also asked our Who What Wear UK editors to put the best formulas on the market to the test to see how they perform on dark skin.

What to Look For

"For those with darker skin, there are three key things to look for: hydrating ingredients, the right undertones and buildable formulas with a deep tone," says Ellis. "Our skin is naturally drier, so choosing formulas that add moisture instead of stripping is always recommended.

"The best formulas for dark skin are those with olive or red hues, depending on the depth of your tone. These hues complement our natural skin shade and prevent that 'ashy' or overly orange look many generic tans can leave behind—no oompa loompa vibes," she says. "Dark-skin-friendly self-tanners are also made in richer shades, and [with a] buildable mousse, you can deepen the glow gradually and naturally."

Scroll ahead for the best fake tans for dark skin, as tested by our editors.

Best Fake Tans for Dark Skin, Tried and Tested

• Best Overall: Caribé Tanning Mousse, £25
• Best Express Formula: Bondi Sands Technocolor 1 Hour Express Self Tanning Foam in Caramel, £20
• Best Facial Tanning Drops: Isle of Paradise Self Tan Drops in Dark, £20

1. Caribé Tanning Mousse

Before

After

Editor review: "Fake tan was something I was previously told that I didn’t need as a Black woman with melanin-rich skin. I’d heard enough streaky-orange horror stories to steer well clear. However, after some extensive research, I concluded that the safest and easiest way to get a summer glow is fake tan," says acting senior fashion and beauty editor for branded content, Felicia Pennant.

"Co-founded by two sisters and fellow women of colour in 2024, the brand describes itself as 'the world’s first tan for melanin-rich individuals', and the reviews from ordinary women, beauty editors and influencers are unanimously positive; so much so that I wondered if this best-selling tanning mousse was too good to be true. Spoiler alert: it isn’t, and I love it. As a fake-tan newbie, I have nothing to compare it to, but I can say that it's lightweight and darker than expected. It smells tropical, as promised, rather than the overwhelming biscuit-y or nutty fake-tan scent I’d heard about. I already apply cocoa or shea butter all over after every shower, so I was pleased to see the latter amongst the nourishing and hydrating ingredients list, alongside aloe vera juice, glycerin and apple extract.

"The part I was most scared about was picking the right colour to achieve a sun-kissed, natural-looking tan. By colour-matching my skin tone to the four visual references (no mention of cool and warm undertones, though), I deduced that I was between light and medium, and opted for the medium C94 shade. Caribé also offers a tanning mitt and brush to shield your hands and create the most seamless finish," she says.

"Following the clear instructions, I slipped the mitt onto my hand, added three pumps of the mousse to my covered palm and rubbed it up and down the inside of the opposite arm in circular motions. I chose to fake tan there instead of my legs because it’s one of the lightest parts of my body, and arguably the best place to patch-test a new product. I did notice that the mousse dried and dissolved into the mitt very quickly, so if you’re not quick enough, it’s gone before it reaches your skin.

"In the photos and in real life, I could see the difference straight away. It was subtle, but my arm was suddenly radiant, making the dullness of the other arm more stark. It was about two shades darker, like I’ve been on a beach holiday, which is enough for me, but for a deeper colour, the brand recommends applying more mousse. It developed beautifully over the next day, and my skin didn’t feel dry at any stage.

"The more I think about it, the more I consider Caribé a viable alternative to the shimmery body makeup I’ve seen all over my social feeds. I hate feeling the weight of any products on my skin, and whilst the coverage is lighter, the glowy results last for up to a week, and it doesn’t stain. I have no issues with the price, which seems mid-range, but the bottle is small given that I’m 5"11'. I’m just not sure if 150ml will fully cover my arms, legs, decolletage and face more than once, which could make my brand-new fake tan habit more expensive than I anticipated."

2. Bondi Sands Technocolor 1 Hour Express Self Tanning Foam in Caramel

Before

After

Editor review: "As someone with a deep skin tone, I had never even considered fake tan," says editorial assistant Brittany Davy.

"That was, of course, until I spotted a number of my favourite beauty influencers on TikTok using it to even out their skin tone and provide them with a healthy summer glow, year-round. Now, I’m hooked. And my favourite by far is Bondi Sands Technocolor 1 Hour Express Self Tanning Foam in the shade Caramel.

"It’s extremely easy to apply, and I appreciate that you only need to wear it for an hour. Not only does it help even out my complexion, but it also gives me that golden-caramel glow I often lose throughout the colder months. I also have to mention that I have eczema and very sensitive skin, and this does not cause any flare-ups or burning at all."

3. Isle of Paradise Self Tan Drops in Dark

Before

After

"As a mixed-race woman, I’ve always been highly sceptical of anything self-tan-related. You see, I never lack in pigment," says junior fashion editor, Imani-Nia Francis-Tsolaki. "Now, I must admit I tried a few facial tan products in my day; however, I always felt they left my skin looking discoloured and rather muddy, instead of the smooth base I was looking for. So when I was tasked with testing the Isle of Paradise tanning drops in Dark, I jumped at the chance to give you, our beauty readers, my honest opinion.

"With a pipette applicator, the product applies much like your run-of-the-mill serum. With a blend of hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, it aims to help even out the appearance of discolouration whilst adding a healthy glow, which, after four months of little sunlight, sounds very appealing to me. The bottle advises mixing 1-12 drops with moisturiser (the more drops, the darker the tan), so for the most accurate test, I added 12 to my Aestura moisturiser and let it sit for 20 minutes after application.

"Whilst my face was a touch sticky, the tan worked incredibly quickly. After 30 minutes, you could really start to see the result. My skin looked healthy, and a subtly sun-kissed glow was building throughout, visible to the naked eye. After applying a full face of makeup, everything looked just that bit warmer. I did have to opt for some of my 'holiday' shades of concealer to make the tone work, as what I’ve been using so far in London this winter was a bit pale.

"Four days in, and only now am I starting to see the colour begin to fade (and I’m not ready to let it go!), so I’ve prepared to apply the drops again tonight. All in all, for the ease, payoff and the fact that it's well priced at £20, I have to say that I'd definitely purchase the Isle of Paradise Self Tan Drops again."

How to Prep Before Fake-Tan Application

"Preparation when tanning is a non-negotiable, and so simple," says Ellis. "Tied in with your typical 'everything shower', gently exfoliate and moisturise to ensure your skin is smooth and hydrated (specifically for darker skin tones, focus on dry patches on elbows or ankles, as the tan can cling to these areas), then use a tanning mitt for even application."

"For deeper tones, a gradual tan with a guide colour gives you more control over the intensity and helps avoid patchy results, as you know where the tan is being applied," says Ellis. "Following this routine helps to keep the tan up, meaning no more pale winters!"

How We Tested

We enlisted the help of Who What Wear UK's editors to test the best fake tans for dark skin tones. They each tested multiple formulas over a couple of weeks, from facial tanning drops to tanning mousses and express formulations, to find out which fake tans are truly the best for dark complexions. Each of our editors tested the fake tans first-hand, honestly evaluating the application, undertone and overall result, sharing their before-and-after photos in their reviews.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including some skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

As a beauty editor, I have tried lots and lots of the best fake tan products over the years. If you know me, then you know that I love to look like I've just returned from a month-long holiday all year round, so I like to think of myself as an expert when it comes to at-home tanning products.

One type of tan that I particularly love is an express fake tan. Why, I hear you ask? One layer of this stuff will have people thinking you've just stepped off a plane in less than an hour. It's that good.

My express fake tan of choice? The St. Tropez Express Mousse. In my opinion, this formula is unbeatable, and I am always recommending it to people I know. So, when I saw that it was currently reduced thanks to the Amazon Prime Day beauty deals (down from £33 to £12, FYI), I knew it was time for a restock.

Shop St. Tropez Self Tan Express Mousse Amazon Prime Day Deal

St. Tropez Self Tan Express Mousse Review

The Formula

First things first, let's discuss the formula. As mentioned, this is an express fake tan, so it has been designed to develop in as little as an hour (although you can leave it on for up to three hours depending on your desired result).

The impressive thing about this is that even after you wash it off in the shower, the product continues to develop, ensuring that you will be left with a sun-kissed glow as you go about your day.

It features 100% natural tanning agents alongside aloe leaf juice to leave your skin feeling soft and hydrated. Plus, compared to other fake tan formulas, this product smells surprisingly nice.

The Application

Another big plus about this tan is that it's so easy to apply. It has a lightweight yet creamy consistency that glides onto the skin, meaning I'm never left with any dodgy-looking patches. It also dries quite quickly and doesn't leave me with that dreaded sticky feeling like other tans sometimes do.

Before and After Results

These pictures of my arms are just an hour apart, and as you can see, this tan adds a super natural glow to the skin. In fact, whenever I apply this, everyone asks me if I've just been on holiday!

Shop St. Tropez Self Tan Express Mousse Amazon Prime Day Deal

What Is Amazon Prime Day?

Amazon Prime Day 2025 is a sale event exclusively for Amazon Prime members. The sales range from the best of beauty to new in fashion, with plenty of other savings on tech and homeware. There are beauty tools we've been wanting to try, health and wellness items for a summer reboot, home appliances (a couple of the team are in the process of moving), and bits and pieces in between.

When Is Amazon Prime Day 2025?

Amazon Prime Day is a bi-annual event that runs in July and October each year. This year, the July event will run from the 8th to the 11th of July.

How to Access Amazon Prime Day

Amazon Prime Day sales are available to all Amazon Prime members. You can sign up for an Amazon Prime membership here. It's free for 30 days so you can access all the benefits of the Amazon Prime Day discounts without shelling out a penny (just remember to cancel before the 30 days is up if you don't want to pay the monthly fee going forward).

When Does Amazon Prime Day 2025 End?

For the first time, Prime Day will run for four days and end at midnight on the 11th of July.

When the sun is out, you'll most likely find me hiding under a parasol with a hat on my head. As much as I love summer, the shade is my happy place, which means I often rely on one of the best fake tans in order to get that golden glow. However, as someone who is constantly on the go, I don't like using a tan that takes hours. Instead, I always opt for an express fake tan.

As the name suggests, these tans develop on the skin in as little as an hour. Forget going to bed with that dreaded fake tan smell, as you can apply these products in the morning and be ready by lunch. Just like my favourite gradual tans and self-tanning drops, I find that the best express fake tans slot easily into my skincare routine.

As a beauty editor, I've tried my fair share of express fake tans over the years in a quest to find the quickest and easiest products out there, and below I've rounded up my top recommendations for you. I also caught up with James Harknett, specialist in bespoke airbrush tanning and creative director of one of my favourite tanning brands, Three Warriors, to find out more about these clever formulas. So, what are you waiting for? Keep on scrolling to get your glow on...

What Is the Difference Between a Normal Fake Tan and an Express Fake Tan?

So, what's the difference between your normal fake tan and an express fake tan? "Express tans have become increasingly popular over the past several years, as they allow [you] to rinse within hours, feeling fresh and clean while the tan [continues to] develop," explains Harknett. "With most other tans, the formula needs a good eight hours on the skin without any contact with water and perspiration."

How to Apply Express Fake Tan

Although each tan will come with its own instructions, I was curious to get Harknett's express fake tan tips. "If you’re using an express formula, such as a mousse at home, apply as you would your regular product," he says. "Don’t be tempted to leave longer than the instructions say. Up to three hours is best. This helps eliminate dehydration as the express tanning agent is a lot stronger."

How to Get the Most Out of Your Express Fake Tan

In order to keep your tan looking fresh, Harknett advises moisturising twice a day with a lightweight body lotion. "After five days or so, top up evenly with [a gradual tan] for an extended glow," he says. "Keep showers quick and cool. Pat dry and on warm days, sprinkle a little talc in the creases of the skin and in your sports bra if you’re doing sports or exercise."

The Best Express Fake Tans, Tried & Tested

• Best Express Fake Tan Overall: Isle of Paradise Express Mousse, £22
• Best Natural-Looking Express Fake Tan: St. Tropez Express Bronzing Mousse, £34
• Best Long-Lasting Express Fake Tan: Bondi Sands Self-Tanning Foam One Hour Express, £17
• Best Scented Express Fake Tan: Three Warriors Self-Tan Mousse, £35
• Best Affordable Express Fake Tan: St. Moriz Professional Fast Self Tan Mousse, £6

1. Isle of Paradise Express Mousse

2. St. Tropez Express Bronzing Mousse

3. Bondi Sands Self Tanning Foam One Hour Express

4. Three Warriors Self-Tan Mousse

5. Tan-Luxe Express Mousse

6. St. Moriz Professional Fast Self Tan Mousse

Shop More Express Fake Tans

How I Tested

As a beauty editor who tests products for a living (and someone who spends their life permanently in the shade with my SPF on), I've tried my fair share of fake tans over the years. I've used these express tanning formulas for as long as I can remember, and have tested them for various occasions, from holidays, weddings and summer weekends at home.

I've thought about everything from formulas, prices and ease of application, and have included my honest thoughts on each product above.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

As someone who has been using fake tan since they were 15, I've tried a lot of self-tan, with varying levels of success. My skin—not to mention my bedsheets—has been subjected to fake tan fails, and now I'm extremely picky about the self-tan I use. In fact, I've been loyal to my trusty Isle of Paradise Tanning Water (£19) for over five years and have rarely moved on from it. However, this summer, I've decided to switch things up and return to one of the first self-tan brands I ever tried. The St. Tropez Luxe Whipped Creme Mousse (£35) is considered one of the best fake tan formulas around, and I wanted to give it a go. So, how does it fare? Scroll ahead for my honest thoughts and before and after pictures of the iconic easy-to-use fake tan below.

St. Tropez Luxe Whipped Crème Mousse Self Tan Overview

The Formula

This is a self-tanner—as opposed to an instant tan or gradual tan— which means it develops on your skin over the course of a few hours and, when washed off, leaves your skin with a glow that will typically last around a week. This one comes in a mousse texture, which feels and looks luxuriously thick yet dries quickly to a lightweight, non-sticky finish on the skin. A key benefit of this tan is that it has a guide colour, so you can see exactly where you're applying it, making it great for beginners or if you're prone to missing spots when using a clear fake tan.

Ingredients-wise, you'll find niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, echinacea and vitamin E in the formula to help hydrate the skin as you tan. As I applied it, I noticed how hydrating it was on my skin. The texture is velvety smooth to apply and melted into my skin as I buffed it in with my mitt.

Before and After

After shaving, exfoliating and lightly moisturising dry areas, I applied the tanning mousse with a mitt to protect my hands. Because the mousse is quite thick, I had to break it up in my mitt a bit before applying it to my skin. The first time I tried it, I didn't, so the mousse ended up as a big dollop on my skin and then fell straight onto my bathroom floor. A word of warning: this mousse holds its own structure, rather than a slippier foam. It has a much firmer texture.

As you can see from the middle photo above, the mousse gives you an instant deep bronze glow. Even though I thoroughly exfoliated, I did notice the tan applying unevenly and clinging to a couple of areas, so I was a little worried about how it would turn out. (In hindsight, I needn't have worried—it was fine!) I was surprised how well it dried down onto my skin. It didn't feel sticky at all. I'm not someone who braves wearing fake tan during the day, but I think you could get away with it while wearing loose clothing if you wanted to let it develop during the day. Instead, I let mine develop overnight as St. Tropez recommends letting it sit on the skin for eight hours.

Overnight, I did see some of the guide colour transfer onto my pyjamas and bedding, but to be honest, that's the drawback with most tinted self-tanners. However, it was minimal with this one. I did notice the infamous fake tan smell, but it wasn't hugely noticeable, and actually, the product smells great upon initial application.

Come morning, I showered off the guide colour and was left with a natural-looking glow, which is slightly lighter than the guide colour. On my skin tone, it left a golden honeyed tan, and I was seriously impressed with how natural it looked.

No matter how well I exfoliate and prep my skin, I often struggle around my hands and feet, but it applied so seamlessly and made my complexion look like I've just spent two weeks in the South of France. I'd say it's pretty close to the hue my skin would usually turn to naturally in the sun before I became more diligent with my SPF. I found that the fake tan smell did linger after showering, but after a day, it totally disappeared.

The Verdict

It's been about 10 years since I tried a St. Tropez tanning formula, and I'm now wondering why I ever departed from the brand in the first place. It's given me one of the best and most natural-looking colour results out of all the self-tanners I've tried. With regular moisturising, I found this faded evenly and gradually over the course of a week

My main qualms are that the guide colour does transfer onto bedding, but it's no different from other tinted fake tans out there. The scent lingers a little longer than I'd like after showering it off, but otherwise, I really can't fault it. Yes, it is more expensive than other self-tans available, but I see it as a worthwhile investment for the results. I can definitely see myself using this as part of my permanent fake tan routine now.

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Self-tanning can be extremely hit or miss. As Who What Wear beauty director Erin Jahns once said, fake tan formulas have come a long way, but it's still possible to overdo it if you're not careful. But don't worry. We've got you covered for when that happens. It's not the end of the world if your tan turns out patchy or streaky, according to Tan-Luxe global tanning expert Lex DiMarchi. Self-tanner is actually much easier to remove than you think. Even if you're looking to slough off an older tan to make way for a fresh one, there are ways to do that too!

For all the deets, keep scrolling. We asked DiMarchi for the best ways to remove self-tanner and included a few recommended items to help you do so.

How to Remove Self-Tanner From Your Hands After Applying

After applying self-tanner, there are a few DIY ways to remove it from your hands. One quick way is to use a washcloth to clean your palms and hands right after. The washcloth will provide light exfoliation and, if done fast enough, should keep your hands from appearing stained. If more than a few minutes have passed, DiMarchi recommends using a soap that lightly exfoliates, like Ouai's Hand Wash.

DiMarchi also says a few other handy skincare items can help you remove self-tanner from your hands. "If you've already tanned your hands as the last step of application, then I would recommend using a peel pad or makeup wipe to remove any residue from your palms," she shares.

How to Remove Self-Tanner From Your Body

If you'd like to remove self-tanner from your entire body, DiMarchi says you can do the same thing as above. "My favourite way [to remove self-tanner] is to dry exfoliate with my towel immediately after stepping out of the shower while my skin is still soft," she says. "I will scrub my body with my towel, and it literally strips all my self-tanner away."

Although physical exfoliation can remove quite a bit of your tan, a good old-fashioned tan remover can also be the way to go. Most self-tan removers are made with chemical exfoliants like AHAs to help remove any lingering product. DiMarchi recommends Tan-Luxe's Glyco Water Self-Tan Eraser. Pro tip: Most self-tan removers can also act as a primer for a fresh tan due to their exfoliating properties. A good exfoliation can remove an unwanted tan and provide a smooth canvas for a fresh one if you want to use it that way later.

The Best Self-Tan Removers

This post originally appeared on What Who Wear US.

As every dermatologist and skincare expert will tell you, limiting your skin’s exposure to the sun’s rays is one of the best things you can do for your skin health. Not only to avoid painful sunburn and long-term damage, but also to reduce hyperpigmentation and inflammation, and to keep fine lines, age spots and other signs of skin ageing at bay.

Fortunately, if you are still craving a warm, bronzed glow, there are plenty of fake tan products out there to choose from. From gradual tans to instant tans, and mousses, mists, lotions and drops, foolproof tans have come a long way from the patchy, orange, smelly formulas of the past.

Self-tanning drops, in particular, are my personal favourite way to give my skin a subtle, believable bronze, and what’s more, they’re super easy to use. Mess-free, customisable and virtually impossible to overdo, the best tan drops feel more like an extra step in your skincare routine, often packed with skincare benefits, and much less likely to cause issues for sensitive and breakout-prone skin. When I’m in a rush and don’t have time for a lengthy tanning routine, I’ve found that adding just a few drops of self-tan to my face cream or body moisturiser is one of the quickest and easiest ways to achieve a sun-kissed finish, from head to toe.

Ready to glow? Read on. I’ve rounded up the very best self-tanning drops for both face and body, right in time for summer.

The Best Tanning Drops, Tried and Tested

• Best Tanning Drops Overall: Tan-Luxe The Face Illuminating Self-Tan Drops, £36
• Best Gradual Tanning Drops: Beauty Pie Awesome Bronze Gradual Self-Tanning Drops, £22
• Best Affordable Tanning Drops: Bondi Sands Self Tan Drops, £16
• Best Tanning Drops for Dry Skin: Coco & Eve Sunny Honey Bronzing Face Drops, £22
• Best Tanning Drops for Acne-Prone Skin: Tanologist Face and Body Drops, £16
• Best Tanning Drops for the Body: Isle of Paradise Body Drops, £27

1. Tan-Luxe The Face Illuminating Self-Tan Drops

The reviews say it all. These self-tanning drops are somewhat of a cult product within the beauty world because they deliver a subtle, healthy glow with zero faff. Simply dispense a few drops into your night cream, and you’ll wake up to a beautifully radiant glow. Freelance beauty editor and Who What Wear UK contributor Laura Pearson says, "These are my go-to for special occasions as I know they'll never let me down. No matter what my skin is like that week, I always know they'll give me an even, healthy-looking glow".

2. Beauty Pie Awesome Bronze Gradual Self-Tanning Drops

If you want natural-looking results that you can gradually build up each day, you absolutely have to have these Beauty Pie tanning drops on your radar. Not only do they impart an even glow, but they're also infused with hydrating hyaluronic acid, along with prebiotics, amino acids and peptides to nourish the skin. They're great if you find most tanning drops upset your skin, and the serum texture sinks straight in for a non-sticky finish. Pearson says, "Everyone should know about these as they are effortless to use. You can flawlessly build on them every day, until you achieve the level of bronze that you want."

3. Bondi Sands Self Tan Drops

From Aussie tanning experts Bondi Sands, these drops are suitable for use on both face and body, making light work of your weekly tanning routine. "I've tried many tanning drops over the years; however, none have been quite as effective as these from Bondi Sands. Offering an intense but buildable glow, I like to mix a few drops in with my moisturiser in the evening, and after around two or three days, my complexion looks brighter, more radiant and with a natural bronzed finish," says beauty contributor Jazzria Harris.

4. Coco & Eve Sunny Honey Bronzing Face Drops

Perfect for dry skin, this formula is boosted with hyaluronic acid to help hydrate your skin, whilst the 18% DHA works to give skin a glow in just two hours. Pearson says, "After just one use of these drops, you can expect a noticeable bronzed finish and more hydrated skin. The five types of hyaluronic acid and coconut water plump the skin with hydration. Perfect for hot summer days."

5. Isle of Paradise Self-Tanning Drops

Available in light, medium and dark formulas, each with colour-correcting undertones to help create a truly natural-looking tan, these drops are one of the easiest ways to control and customise your glow. Pearson also loves these. "All my friends, across a wide spectrum of skin tones, love these as they really even out the complexion as well as bronze it."

6. Oskia Adaptive Tan Drops

7. Tanologist Face and Body Drops

8. St. Tropez Luxe Tan Tonic Glow Drops

9. Garnier Ambre Solaire Natural Bronzer Self-Tan Face Drops

10. Tropic Sun Drops

11. Self Glow by James Read Sunbright Tinted Tanning Drops

12. Caudalie Vinobronze Self-Tan Sun Drops

13. Charlotte Tilbury Island Glow Tan Drops

A true skincare-makeup hybrid, these tanning drops develop over eight hours and provide streak-free colour for four days. You get a natural, even, glowing finish every time because of its skincare-based formulation. Completely buildable to give you everything from a natural sun-kissed glow to a full-on deep tan. "These are a dream to use and make my skin look amazing with or without makeup. My summer holiday go-to combo is SPF and these—I'm good to go," says Pearson.

14. Isle of Paradise Body Drops

15. Dr Hauschka Translucent Bronzing Tint

These tanning drops are so versatile, as they are suitable for everyone, adapting to all skin tones and conditions to improve the look of your skin and give you a bronzed glow. Expect a fresh and healthy-looking complexion. Pearson says, "These really improve the look of my skin by evening out imperfections and pigmentation. It's almost like they give a diffused, soft-focus finish".

16. Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Hue Drops

These bronzing drops give you a tanned, dewy glow instantly. They contain pore-refining and brightening niacinamide as the star ingredient, so you're getting skincare benefits too. "The great thing about these is that they give a temporary bronzed glow. You can wash it right off afterwards, and boost throughout the day without any fear of it going wrong," says Pearson.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

Self-tanning can be dangerous territory. Whether you've got streaky legs or glowing palms, it can be hard to get a tan right unless you're at the hands of a seasoned professional. Thankfully, there are so many tanning formulations for the body and face that have made tanning at home so much easier. Whether we opt for a gradual tanner, a facial tan or a self-tan that develops overnight (that won't ruin our bed linens), we're spoiled for choice.

Having a summer glow can often make us feel more inclined tap into those summer fashion trends we're seeing everywhere at the moment, and with the right maintenance, your glow can last for days. This is ideal when your diary is packed with weddings, holidays and summer soirées.

However, if you're a beginner, it can be daunting to pick up your tanning mitt. So I enlisted the help of Jules Von Hep, a celebrity tanner and the founder of Isle of Paradise, to help pave the way to nailing your self-tan every time. These tips will guarantee that your tan looks professional (and realistic) every step of the way, from preparation to application to maintenance.

Mistake 1: Not Prepping the Skin

What's the biggest make? "Forgetting to moisturise your hands and just 'winging it,'" warns Von Hep. "Repeat after me: If I don't moisturise my hands, I will be left with tanned knuckles. Shaving, scrubbing, and removal of deodorant must be done at this time, too," he adds.

The same goes if you're turning up for a spray tan in a salon. "Turning up for a tan wearing skinny jeans, leggings, gladiator sandals, sports bras—this is not tanning attire," he says. "You want loose, floaty, effortless, chic clothes. My clients who work in fashion always wear jumpsuits."

Mistake 2: Tanning in Between Fingertips

Orange fingertips are a dead giveaway, according to Von Hep. "The trick here is to ensure you moisturise the hands and feet prior to tan application," he says. "That way, there will be no tan-over (my term for that moment where you wake up and realize you've messed up your tan). Immediately after you have applied your tan, remember to wipe your palms and in between your fingers and buff your knuckles on a dry towel to remove excess tan," he adds. "My favourite trick of all is to hang a towel on the back of your door and rub your wrists together. This removes those pesky telltale tan lines."

And if you've woken up with luminous fingers, don't fret. If you have an exfoliating serum to hand, this can help to remove build-up. "If you need results fast, use Sunday Riley Good Genes Lactic Acid on the surface of your hands followed by an exfoliating makeup wipe. It won't completely strip it off, but it'll fade the tan rapidly," he says.

Mistake 3: Orange Feet

Much like hands, the feet are another tricky area to tackle. "With all tans, apply two coats to the body and one to the face. Starting at the ankles and working your way up means that tan will be dry enough to apply a second coat after a couple of minutes. Just start again from the ankles for the second layer," says Von Hep. "Use what is left on the mitt to apply to hands and feet, and remember to wipe in between fingers and toes and over nails with a damp cloth or makeup wipe after application."

Mistake 4: Removing Hair After Tanning

If you choose to remove your body hair, it's important to do this before you do your tan. "The trick to a truly flawless glow is all in the prep. Shave or wax at least 24 hours prior to application, and ensure skin is exfoliated with a dry brush or scrub," Von Hep advises. "This means your skin will have an even surface, so the final result will be even, and more importantly, it will fade evenly like a natural tan would."

Mistake 5: Not Applying Tan Correctly

Choosing the right tanning formula and applying it correctly is key. "Isle of Paradise has three types of texture to choose from, each with a slightly different application technique," says Von Hep. "The texture you choose all comes down to personal preference. Within the range, we have mousse, tanning water and tanning drops, so there are plenty of choices for every tan lover!"

He adds that "mousse is applied directly onto a mitt and transferred onto skin. Water is sprayed directly onto skin, drenching it before being buffed with a mitt, and drops are applied into your daily face and body moisturiser for added hydration and glow," he explains. His golden rule is to apply 12 drops per limb on the body and four for the face.

Once you've picked your tanning formula, it's time to perfect your application. "Whichever texture of tan you choose to use, always start from the ankles (not the feet. These come last) and work your way up to the heart and chest," he advises. "Always apply your tan in sweeping motions over the body, never circular. This ensures that product is distributed evenly for the most natural, even-looking tan. When it comes to tanning the back, you can do this alone. Just turn your mitt backwards and apply product directly onto the skin, sweeping from side to side."

Mistake 6: Orange Palms

Orange palms can be easily avoided, according to Von Hep. "A mitt protects the tan from absorbing into the hands but also helps evenly distribute the product. If you're using tanning drops or water, you can rub it in using your hands. Just wash your palms with micellar water afterwards. But as a rule, I always use a mitt."

Mistake 7: Going Too Dark on Your Face

"Repeat after me: Two coats on the body, one on the face," says Von Hep. "Faces that have too much self-tan on look unnatural. Ensure your face is cleansed thoroughly. Exfoliating will help deliver a uniform skin tone," he says. "Splash the face with cold water to close pores, and then apply your serum as usual, but note that exfoliating acids and retinol cannot be used with self-tan."

So if you're tanning, you'll want to pause on any actives for a couple of days if you want your tan to last longer. You can keep it topped up by adding some tanning drops into your usual serum or moisturiser.

He also advises brushing your teeth prior to tan application, as toothpaste can collect at the sides of your mouth and remove tan.

Mistake 8: Forgetting to Tan Your Ears

"When applying tan to the face, don't forget to do your ears!" says Von Hep. "Take a short fibre makeup brush like Isle of Paradise's Big Blending Brush and lightly buff off the excess from your face and sweep lightly around your ears."

Mistake 9: Tanning Brows and Hairline

If you're fair-haired, you'll want to take care not to unintentionally tan your brows and hairline. Applying moisturiser or a balm to these areas will help prevent tan from clinging. "Prime your skin using Isle of Paradise pH Balance Spray, and if you are fair-haired, apply some to your hairline and eyebrows," Von Hep advises.

Mistake 10: Not Maintaining Your Tan

"One of the best ways to prolong your tan is to keep hydrated," says Von Hep. "Drink that water and moisturise your skin every day using an aloe vera–based body lotion or butter. Hydrated skin won't shed and will hold onto the colour for longer." It's also worth noting that oil-based products will also fade your tan more quickly, so opt for water-based lotions.

To maintain the tan on your face, you'll want to steer clear of certain skincare ingredients. "When tanning, you should avoid using retinol or exfoliating AHAs or BHAs on your skin as these encourage cell turnover on the skin and will cause the tan to fade more quickly," says Von Hep.

You'll also want to avoid harsh exfoliation on your body. "By this I mean exfoliating scrubs, gloves and bathing in warm water with bath oils," says Von Hep. "However, a tip I refer to as 'the tickle technique' is where you use an exfoliating body wash to 'tickle' the tan off after it has been on your skin for four to five days. This will help the tan fade more evenly," he recommends. "Self-tan is a bit like hair colouring. Our colour fades, but we can pick it back up again. If your colour just needs that little boost, apply a secondary lighter coat of self-tan four days after you initially tanned."

Up Next: I Hate Fake Tan, But This One Product Gets Me the Most Compliments

As a beauty editor, I deem it my job to ensure that people are spending their money on beauty wisely. That’s why, when anyone, stranger or friend, asks me for advice on a particular product, I am more than happy to oblige. The most common question I get asked is, without a doubt, "Is [insert product here] really worth the money?” And more often than not, the answer to that question is no.

However, there is one product that finds itself at the centre of such questioning that will always and forever get a resounding yes from me—and that’s Tan-Luxe Super Glow Hyaluronic Self-Tan Serum.

Shannon before using Tan-Luxe Super Glow Hyaluronic Self-Tan Serum.

If you’re asking me, there are few beauty products that can transform your mood quite like a natural-looking, glow-boosting fake tan. The best formulas aren’t the ones that deliver the deepest tan or the bronziest finish but rather the ones that leave you looking healthy and glowing—as though you've been bathing in vitamin D. Because whatever your skin tone, a hydrating self-tan can (and should) help skin appear more even and radiant.

And this is the exact reason that Tan-Luxe Super Glow Hyaluronic Self-Tan Serum has such a buzz around it. Since its launch a few years ago, I have had at least one person a week ask me for advice on this at-first-unassuming bottle. People want to know if it works, if it’s easy to use and, most importantly, if it’s worth the money.

And what is odd about this is that the hype around it never dies. Unlike social media fad products (like those we see go viral on TikTok), Super Glow’s success is more down to word of mouth. Some might have seen a friend use it and be impressed, others might be following a beauty editor who swears by it, and many just see its sleek packaging sat on the shelf in Space NK and become intrigued. But whatever the reason for picking it up, the end result is always the same—Super Glow becomes a can’t-live-without, repeat-purchase product for everyone who uses it.

Shannon after using Tan-Luxe Super Glow Hyaluronic Self-Tan Serum. 

Essentially, Super Glow is simply a gradual tanning facial serum with amped-up hydration. You apply it to dry skin, straight after cleansing, and wash your hands afterwards. The glow that it delivers isn’t streaky and won’t cling on to dry patches, unlike so many other formulas out there. The reason is that it’s formulated with hyaluronic acid to boost hydration and combat dryness (minimising the risk of patching and helping to plump the skin while it works).

As well as hyaluronic acid, it also contains antioxidant superfood ingredients that work to condition the skin, reduce pigmentation and protect the skin against free radical damage throughout the day. It’s a healthy-skin serum supercharged with DHA to deliver a glowing tan. Simply pop it on after your evening cleanse and wake up with impressively more radiant, healthy-looking skin.

In all honesty, Super Glow is probably beauty's biggest unsung hero. I have gone through at least eight bottles in my time and won’t be giving it up any time soon. Do I think £36 is a lot to pay for a self-tan serum? Absolutely. But the thing about Super Glow is that it’s so much more than a self-tan serum. It has a wonderful way of making you feel that little bit better about yourself—and I just know that everyone who has ever used it can relate.

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I've never been one to shy away from a viral beauty trend. From buzzy throwbacks like cracking nail varnish (2012, you called?) and burgundy lipsticks to more recent trends like contouring and glass skin, I'm always up for experimenting. However, there's one beauty trend that, up until recently, I just couldn't get on board with—self-tan. My reason for this? Well, first, as a Black woman, I've always been pretty dubious about what the end result would actually look like, whether it would be totally unnoticeable on my skin tone or would leave me looking patchy.

Second, even if I were curious, the tanning industry is notorious for being pretty much non-existent for darker skin tones. So imagine my surprise when I started to notice Black women professing their love for self-tanning on the internet. 

First, there were TikTok videos and then, much to my delight, came skinfluencer Alicia Lartey with a super-detailed Instagram post of self-tanning recommendations for Black girls and how these products could actually help to cover hyperpigmentation and stretch marks on darker skin. I also learnt that there were a number of tanning products on the market that imbued Black skin with a lit-from-within glow. And as someone who goes weak at the knees for any and all glow-boosting products, I was intrigued. 

So that's when my quest to find a self-tanning product that was inclusive of darker skin tones, was suitable for beginners and gave me the ultimate glow began. Surely that's not asking for much, right? Admittedly, the tanning industry is still not super inclusive in 2021, but there are definitely some go-to tanning brands that are beginning to cater to darker skin tones. Case in point: the Tanologist Face + Body Drops in Dark (£15). I added them straight to my basket and got testing them for a week.

Vanese Maddix before applying Tanologist Face + Body Drops in Dark.

The Tanologist self-tan drops are described as a made-to-measure glow serum that is suitable for both face and body. Interestingly, the brand encourages you to use the drops alongside your existing skincare routine—which is exactly what I did. The product description says to apply one to 12 drops to your favourite moisturiser, depending on your desired end result, with more drops giving you a deeper tan. I decided to go the full way by mixing 12 drops in with my trusty CeraVe Moisturising Cream (£13). The drops and moisturiser blended effortlessly together, with the self-tan giving off an instant floral odour.

Vanese Maddix after applying Tanologist Face + Body Drops in Dark.

I was pleasantly surprised at just how non-sticky the drops were. After all, while I've never tried any tanning products before this, I've definitely heard tanning fans discussing the gross feeling of a sticky tanning product. One of the most noticeable things after my initial application was just how glowy and hydrated my skin looked and felt. It took about two days for the final result to come in and, when it did, was a subtle but perfect sun-kissed glow. I think it's safe to say that I'm very happy with the end result. And while I don't think tanning drops will become an everyday or even weekly occurrence in my routine (mainly as I feel as though these same great results could be achieved by a bronzer and some sort of glow-boosting serum for a more instant result), I'm pleased it's now an option that I can consider.

Shop the best tan drops for Black skin:

If you've ever wanted to know what's really inside the makeup bags of the most stylish women in the industry, you're in luck. We've created a new column—Inside My Makeup Bag—to uncover the beauty products our fashion friends genuinely keep in their daily rotations and how much their stashes actually cost. I'll be delving inside their bags on your behalf and totting up every item in there, from the most expensive to the cheapest. Not only will you be left with an incredible shopping list, but you'll also get a realistic price tag to boot. Is there someone whose makeup bag you're dying to see? Slide into my Instagram DMs with your requests, and I'll see what I can do. This month, we're delving inside the everyday makeup bag of content creator and founder of Smart Skin Niomi Smart.

Content creator, cookbook author, brand founder… Niomi Smart is a woman of many talents. With an amassed following of almost three million across her Instagram and YouTube platforms, Smart is part of the wave of early content creators who shaped the industry as we know it today, carving out a niche for herself with a focus on plant-based living, sustainability and well-being. The launch of her very own skincare brand last year, Smart Skin, cemented Smart as a force to be reckoned with in the beauty industry—her carefully curated range of natural, sustainable and vegan products impressing followers and beauty editors alike. And all that hard work aside, there’s no denying that Smart herself is a beacon of radiance. So when I got the chance to take a peek inside her makeup bag—as part of her role as ambassador for Bondi Sands Pure—I couldn’t wait to see which products she uses to achieve that trademark dewy complexion.

Totalling £224, Smart's makeup bag is a carefully curated edit of hardworking skincare, luxury makeup and natural beauty picks. Keep scrolling to see exactly what she swears by and to shop Smart's beauty favourites for yourself.

Niomi Smart's Makeup Bag Essentials

#1: Wild Deodorant

"I am a huge fan of the Wild natural and vegan deodorants. There are multiple scents of refills to choose from (Lemon Meringue is my current favourite), and the aluminium cases are made to last. Plus, they look great sat on the bathroom shelf."

#2: Bondi Sands Pure Concentrated Self Tan Drops 

"Now that it's spring, a glow is essential! I've been using the sustainable, vegan and fragrance-free Bondi Sands Pure range. I just add the Self Tanning Drops to my evening skincare every couple of nights, and it adds a healthy, natural-looking tan."

#3: Bondi Sands Pure Self Tan Foaming Water

"The Bondi Sands Self Tan Foaming Water is incredibly easy to use. I apply this usually on a Sunday evening as part of an at-home pamper session."

#4: Smart Skin Golden Jelly Cleanser

"My skincare routine is basically my Smart Skin collection! I have created my dream natural and vegan skincare. The Golden Jelly Cleanser melts into an oil to remove makeup and impurities and leaves the skin feeling so soft and hydrated with thanks to the grape-seed oil and orange fruit water."

#5: Smart Skin Multi V Elixir

"I massage the Multi V Elixir into my skin at night to provide a boost of antioxidants."

#6: Chantecaille Just Skin Tinted Moisturiser

"I rarely wear foundation, especially during spring and summer, so the Just Skin Tinted Moisturiser by Chantecaille is the perfect product to provide sheer coverage with SPF 15. It's light and grease-free, something I have struggled to find with other sun protection."

#7: BareMinerals Strength and Length Mascara

"I tell everyone about this miracle mascara! The serum-infused formula helps to keep lashes long and healthy, and the unusual paddle-shape brush provides such an easy application without clumps. I find my lashes reach my brow but without those annoying black dots that many mascaras can leave above or below the eye."

#8: Biossance Squalane + Rose Vegan Lip Balm

"I always apply this lip balm when I do my skincare routine every morning and evening. It keeps my lips feeling soft, nourished and hydrated and creates the perfect base for lip products once it has soaked in."

#9: Saie Liquid Lip Balm

"I like to keep my makeup simple, and this Saie Liquid Lip Balm is perfect to carry around with me during the day. It has a sheer finish and can be applied anywhere without a mirror but adds a beautiful glossy sheen. It's my current favourite spring makeup must-have."

Trust me when I say that the patchy, orange fake-tan formulas of yesteryear are now entirely a thing of the past. Nowadays, for the most part, fake tan gives results that are pretty much as good as the real thing, if not better. But I know what you’re thinking: Why would anyone bother with fake tan right now when the sun is shining the way that it is?

Well, the beauty of using a fake tan as opposed to sitting outside in the sun for hours on end is that it is an entirely harmless act, unlike the totally irreversible damage caused by UV rays. So why do people still insist on tanning the natural way? Well, frankly, fake tanning is a real faff, and people are still really quite scared of it.

Coming from someone who, up until a couple of years ago, was also absolutely petrified by the idea of fake tan going wrong, believe me when I say I know how you feel. Not only is the very act of applying it messy, time-consuming and laborious, the fear that you’ll be left with a patchy finish that can’t be removed is reason enough to avoid the task completely. However, I promise you that not all fake tans are scary. In fact, now they’re customisable, buildable and easy to use.

Don’t believe me? From gradual formulas to super-easy-to-apply drops, keep scrolling for the totally foolproof fake tans that are perfect for tanning novices.

The Best Easy-to-Use Fake-Tan Formulas For the Body

The Best Easy-to-Use Fake-Tan Formulas For the Face

This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.

There is nothing I love more than sunbathing. I’m ashamed to admit it, but it’s true. The feeling of joy that I get as I lie outside sipping on a cooling spritz as my skin soaks up all of the vitamin D truly can’t be beaten. And boy have I taken advantage of every minute of sun that’s come my way over the years. However, a few years ago, as I hit my mid-20s, years of sun damage started to catch up with me. I started to notice creping on my forehead, pigmentation across my cheeks and spider veins on my nose, and I knew why.

From then onward, I refuse to sit in the sun for prolonged periods of time, and for the few minutes I do sit out, you better believe I’ve slathered every inch of exposed skin in SPF 50. The problem with this is, however, that I love being tanned. In fact, when I’m not looking my most bronzed and sun-kissed, I really don’t feel like myself. And this causes issues, especially considering I’m really not a huge lover of fake tan.

Don’t get me wrong. As much as I love the feeling I get when looking in the mirror after I have applied fake tan, the fuss and hassle of applying super-dark formulas is just too much. Luckily for me, over the past year or so, the number of products that aim to deliver a natural-looking, bronzing glow with minimal fuss has skyrocketed.

A far cry from the famous Johnson & Johnson Holiday Skin gradual tanning lotion of yesteryear, new and improved formulas contain a whole host of seriously impressive skincare ingredients and leave behind a subtle, yet convincing, golden glow. So for the gradual tan products I use to help keep my tan (and spirits) topped up all year round, keep scrolling.

The Best Gradual Tan Products

1. Best Overall Gradual Tan: Tan-Luxe Super Glow Hyaluronic Self-Tan Serum
2. Best Gradual Tan for Quick Results: St Tropez Gradual Tan Body Lotion
3. Best Gradual Tan for a Natural Finish: Gatineau Golden Glow Gradual Tan
4. Best Gradual Tan for Everyday: Filter by Molly-Mae Face & Body Self-Tanning Drops
5. Best Gradual Tan for Easy Application: Dove Derma Spa Gradual Self Tan Mousse

1. Tan-Luxe Super Glow Hyaluronic Self-Tan Serum

2. St Tropez Gradual Tan Body Lotion

3. Gatineau Golden Glow Gradual Tan

4. Filter by Molly-Mae Face & Body Self-Tanning Drops

5. Dove Derma Spa Gradual Self Tan Mousse

6. Charlotte Tilbury Beautiful Skin Island Glow Easy Tanning Drops

7. St. Tropez Self Tan Purity Bronzing Mist

8. Isle of Paradise Happy Tan Everyday Gradual

9. St. Tropez Luxe Tan Tonic Glow Drops

10. Tan-Luxe The Gradual Illuminating Tan Lotion

11. Bondi Sands Gradual Tan Lotion

12. Garnier Summer Body Hydrating Gradual Tan Moisturiser

13. This Works Perfect Legs Gradual Tan

How We tested the Best Gradual Tans

As a beauty editor and self-confessed tanning product obsessive, I've tested hundreds of gradual tanning formulas over the years. Noting how well they lasted, how smoothly they applied, how natural the colour looked, how quickly they dried and whether they left any tell-tale smell or streaks behind.

Along the way, I tapped my fellow tanning-obsessed editors to get their go-to favourites. This curated edit of the gradual tanners that actually deliver is the result—13 formulas that are easy to use and give skin a healthy, even glow right on time for summer.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

Let me start by saying that I really don’t like fake tan. I hate the fuss of applying it, I hate the smell, I hate how it stains my white bed linen and I really, really hate the way it makes my skin look unnaturally orange and streaky. As someone who loves the way that a natural tan looks, this puts me in a bit of a tricky position. I either risk irreversible sun damage and other serious health conditions through trying to achieve a golden glow naturally, or I just suck it up and reach for the bottle.

I have always found that I tan fairly easily and rarely actually burn, so I assumed that my skin was somewhat resistant to sun damage. However, as soon as the pigmentation and fine lines started to appear, I knew it was time to change my outlook. I started slathering on SPF every day—rain or shine—and looking for other ways to achieve a natural-looking tan.

As though the beauty gods had been looking down on me, it was around this time that I also received a bottle of Bondi Sands Aero Aerated Self Tanning Foam (£19) in the post. Although I had heard all about the wonders of this Aussie tanning brand, I simply wasn’t sold. If it was fake tan, I just didn’t want in. So there it sat on my bathroom shelf, totally untouched for a couple of weeks. That is until summer hit hard and I found myself having to swap jeans for shorts. One hot afternoon, as I prepped my outfit for a music festival the following day, I looked down at my pasty legs and reached for the bottle of Aero.

First of all, I want to highlight that just because I don’t like fake tan doesn’t mean I haven’t tried countless formulas. So believe me when I say that I have never tried anything like Aero. Unlike messy foams and streaky lotions, this particular formula is aerated, dense and more whipped than traditional foam.

Not only does this make it extremely easy to apply (it doesn’t drip or leak anywhere), it also means it goes on smoothly, almost like butter. I also noticed that it doesn’t cling to dry patches or leave a sticky residue, unlike others I’ve tried in the past. Once I had applied one layer over my entire body, I realised that actually, the whole application process was quite therapeutic and—dare I say it—enjoyable.

As I got on with my day and let the tan develop, I noticed that the guide colour was turning quite a sickly shade of green and reminded myself that a perfect fake tan formula is simply too good to be true. With very low expectations, around eight hours later, just before bed, I hopped in the shower to rinse it all off. However, as I dried my legs, I noticed that actually, my skin looked almost golden. Forget the orange tones that you might currently associate with a fake tan—this stuff left behind a deep, golden shade of brown that genuinely had me looking like I had spent a few days on Bondi Beach. I went to bed content.

It’s needless to say that the next day had me receiving countless "Have you been on holiday?” questions. Since that moment, I haven’t looked back. I have gone through countless bottles and have even started dipping my toe into other formulas too. While none compare, I regard Bondi Sands Aero as the product that finally convinced me that fake tan isn’t actually the worst thing ever, and for that, I’m eternally grateful.

Shop More Bondi Sands Products

Next up, I’ve been bleaching my hair for 10 years and these are the products I swear by.

Whatever time of year it is, we all crave that "just got back from holiday” glow, don’t we? Whether it’s not having to wear as much make-up or simply just feeling like our best selves, the benefits of having a freshly bronzed glow can’t be underestimated. At this point, we’ve made it through winter and would normally be starting to get some rays of vitamin D again—but what if the spring sunshine has yet to emerge from winter retirement or, oh I don't know, you've spent the best part of the last 12 months inside? We must, then, get resourceful—and that's where tanning drops come in.

Tanning drops have personally been my saviour for a long while now. I was a self-confessed tan-o-phobe (I’m quite fair-skinned, an SPF worshipper and have many a fake-bake horror story to tell), but since discovering the joy of these bottles of sunshine, I haven’t looked back. My purse—thanks to me having to re-buy my make-up far less often—and my skin, have definitely thanked me too!

If you’re a newbie to face-tanning, the beauty of these products is that you have a lot more control than slathering on a foam all over your body and hoping for the best. Most are sheer and have varying shades so you can start light with one or two drops and add or change shade as you see fit. But just a couple of drops in your daily moisturiser or as a serum under your usual routine can really make a huge difference in how fresh you’re feeling. Trust me—tanning drops are all about the glow.

Keep scrolling for our personal favourites, from some of the most luxury offerings out there to the more affordable but just as effective options.

Shop Tanning Drops

Up Next, A Celebrity Tanner Wants Everyone to Stop Making These 10 Tanning Mistakes

Come winter, my commitment to any sort of routine really begins to waver. During the summer months, I’m all about making sure my limbs and face have a (faux) sun-kissed glow, but as soon as temperatures start to drop, I’m out. When 90% of my time is spent indoors anyway, dedicating precious time to fake tan application seems wasteful. 

However, that isn’t to say that I don’t want to look tanned. I’d do anything to inject some warmth into my pale skin, just as long as it doesn't involve too much fuss or take longer than a few minutes. And trust me, I’ve tried a bunch, from drops to sprays and foams to creams, but I have never managed to get my hands on a formula simple and natural-looking enough to make me keep up a winter routine.

However, when I found out that the queen of glow, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, swears by a simple facial tanning product developed by her go-to tanner James Read, I thought it might be worth doing some digging. Speaking to Teen Vogue, Rosie revealed, "James Read Sleep Mask Tan is the best facial tanning product I’ve ever used. I can’t stop using it.” So, I figured if Rosie can keep her glow all year round, what’s stopping me?

This particular tan has seriously piqued my interest. Simply apply before bed, let it develop while you’re snoozing and wake up to natural-looking bronzed skin. And I must admit, the results are quite special. It’s minimal fuss and leaves my skin looking healthy and radiant and, most importantly, I can really see myself using it all year round.

In fact, I’d deem my experience such a success that I feel inclined to try some of the other products in the brand’s offering. Keep scrolling for the other James Read products on my radar.

Next up, Victoria Beckham uses this unexpected beauty product, and we're obsessed.

If you've ever wanted to know what's really inside the makeup bags of the most stylish women in the industry, you're in luck. We've created a new column, Show Me the (Makeup) Money, to uncover the beauty products our fashion friends genuinely keep in their daily rotation—and how much their stash actually costs. I'll be delving inside their bags on your behalf and totting up every item in there, from the most expensive to the cheapest. Not only will you be left with an incredible shopping list, but also a realistic price tag to boot. Is there someone whose makeup bag you're dying to see inside? Slide into my Instagram DMs with your requests, and I'll see what I can do. This month, we're delving inside the everyday makeup bag of celebritiy tanning expert and founder of Isle of Paradise, Jules Von Hep.

The tanner of choice for celebrities like Stacey Dooley and Sienna Miller, what Jules doesn't know about glowing skin frankly isn't worth knowing.

"I've worked backstage alongside top makeup artists like Val Garland, Lucia Peroni and Hannah Murray, as well as counting Katie Jane Hughes as an inner circle friend, so I have picked up most of my makeup tricks from the world's best," explained Jules. "I'm known for glowy, natural-looking skin—I like wearing makeup to enhance my skin, not hide it."

As well as putting his tanning prowess to good use with the launch of Isle of Paradise (his own self-tanning brand) last year, Jules has more recently turned his attention to the world of mental health and body positivity with the launch of his Get Body Posi campaign and free handbook.

"My book Get Body Posi is a solid place to start when it comes to getting ready—you can read it in 20 minutes," said Jules. "Our lives are too precious to feel rubbish about our appearance. I'm an incredibly positive person, but even I have down days, and when I do, I read through this book to boost how I feel. I also give these out to models on set just to remind them that they're more than their appearance. Storm Models now officially gives this to its girls too."

As part of the launch, Jules along with Isle of Paradise is pledging £25,000 to Mind Charity to help others on their path to mental wellness and body acceptance.

I genuinely couldn't wait to find out which products Jules genuinely used in his makeup bag and was impressed to note that its contents—worth a whopping £400—are the most expensive we've featured to date.

"Okay, before we begin, I want to clarify something just in case you're looking at this image and thinking s) that's a lot of makeup for a man, and b) are those crystals?" Jules joked. "The answers are, I know this is a lot of makeup, sweetie (I am proud), and yes, 100%, these are crystals. Energy should always be at its richest when you get ready for your day. Do your makeup in a negative environment and you may as well not bother going out."

So without further ado, keep scrolling to shop the contents of Jules Von Hep's makeup bag and to find out exactly why he swears by these products.

Related: The £22 Fake Tan Margot Robbie and Sienna Miller Use

Related: Hate Foundation? These Are the 20 Best Tinted Moisturisers for a Natural Finish

Related: The Right Way to Clean Your Makeup Brushes, According to an Expert

Next up, trust me—I'm no makeup expert, but I swear by these products.

When it comes to fake tan, you probably fall into one of three camps. You either love it, are curious but also terrified of it, or aren't interested. As someone who has tried a lot of fake tans and bronzers over the years (and made a lot of fake-tanning mistakes, may I add), I can safely say that tanning products have come a very long way. Forget the orange-toned instant tans or dreaded biscuit smell of a certain gradual-tanning body lotion from the 2000s. Today's formulations won't leave you with an unusual-looking hue or ruin your expensive white bed sheets. The best fake tans are your key to a realistic glow without any of the damaging effects of UV exposure from the sun. Because we're all wearing our SPF every day now, right?

Whether you're a fake-tan aficionado who wants to know the best fake tans around in 2026 or a shy self-tanner looking for tips, we've got everything covered ahead. I asked Michaella Bolder, St.Tropez's tanning and skincare expert, for all the deets on how and where to begin with fake tan. I also asked beauty editors who use tanning products to share the best fake tans they have come across, from gradual tans to express tans and even tanning drops. Trust us, these are the easiest-to-use fake tans around. Time to get glowing!

The Best Fake Tans, as Loved by Beauty Editors

• Best Overall: Isle of Paradise Self-Tanning Mousse, £20
• Best Fake Tan Drops: Isle of Paradise Self-Tanning Drops, £22
• Best Express Fake Tan: Bondi Sands Technocolor 1 Hour Express Self Tanning Foam, £20
• Best Natural-Looking Fake Tan: Filter By Molly Mae Tanning Mousse, £22

1. Isle of Paradise Self Tanning Mousse

Why we love it: It's easy to apply, doesn't dry too quickly (which can cause streaks), and doesn't have an overpowering smell (though a scent is still definitely there). Since it has a colour guide, it will leave a few marks if you're sleeping in it, but the brand also offers plenty of colourless formulas.

Editor review: "As an ex–Irish dancer and now beauty editor, it's fair to say I've tried more tans than the average person," says freelance beauty journalist Tori Crowther. "I'm also really pale, so I've had my share of tan failures—all of which have led to truly knowing my way around the category. Without a doubt, my favourite tanning brand is Isle of Paradise. In my opinion, you can't beat the formulas or the brand ethos. For me, the tanning mousse is foolproof, leaving a golden tan with zero orange streaks in sight."

2. Isle of Paradise Self-Tanning Drops

Why we love it: If you're someone who likes complete control over your glow, these face drops are among the easiest ways to customise your tan. The lightweight formula mixes seamlessly into your moisturiser, allowing you to dial your colour up or down depending on how many drops you use. Unlike some facial tanners, it develops evenly and fades relatively slowly and without clinging to dry patches.

Editor review: "The Face Drops have a place in my heart for offering that bit more control. I can add a tiny drop to my moisturiser to take the edge off a particularly luminous pallor, but adding one or two more won't result in Lucy à l'orange," says freelance beauty journalist Lucy Abbersteen.

3. Tanologist Extra Dark Mousse

Why we love it: The mousse texture glides onto skin effortlessly, whilst the colour develops into a rich bronze that still avoids the dreaded orange territory. Despite the intensity, the finish remains surprisingly natural-looking, particularly on medium to deep skin tones. It dries quickly, feels comfortable on the skin and doesn't transfer excessively during development. If you're looking for a tan that genuinely lasts and shows up after one application, this is a standout.

Editor review: "My favourite body tans are Tanologist Extra Dark Mousse and the Utan Turbo Mousse," says Cosmopolitan beauty director, Keeks Reid. "Both leave medium-to-dark skin with a healthy-looking and believable tan."

4. Utan After-Dark Turbo Mousse

Why we love it: This is one of those under-the-radar formulas that consistently punches above its weight—it develops quickly into a dark, olive-toned tan that looks impressively realistic. The mousse is easy to buff into the skin, and the guide colour helps prevent streaks, even when applying in a hurry.

Editor review: "This Utan mousse smells like a cherry bakewell—amazing," says Reid.

5. Tan-Luxe The Face Self-Tan Drops

Why we love it: Few products have achieved cult status quite like Tan-Luxe's face drops, and after using them, it's easy to understand why. The skincare-meets-self-tan formula blends effortlessly into existing routines and develops into a truly believable glow. Rather than looking obviously tanned, skin simply appears healthier, brighter and more radiant.

Editor review: "I need about 10 drops of this for a noticeable difference, so it's not for every day, but when my anaemia is screaming, it's the perfect overnight glow-booster," says Reid.

6. Isle of Paradise Body Drops

Why we love it: Mixed into body lotion, these drops allow you to create a completely bespoke tan, whether you're after a subtle glow or a deeper bronze. The formula feels lightweight and hydrating, making it particularly appealing for those who dislike traditional mousses. Because you're combining it with your regular moisturiser, the application feels less intimidating and more forgiving.

Editor review: "My fake-tan MO is not looking like I've used fake tan. I like a subtle sun-kissed glow, but my skin is very pale, so I find any hint of orange really stands out against its pasty backdrop," says Abbersteen. "This isn't an issue with Isle of Paradise's brilliant colour-correcting formulas (hardly surprising when you consider that the brand's lovely founder, Jules Von Hep, has a decade and a half of experience as one of the go-to celebrity tanners). The Light range nails my personal brief."

7. Bondi Sands Technocolor 1 Hour Express Self Tanning Foam

Why we love it: Bondi Sands' Technocolor range takes a more tailored approach to tanning. The one-hour express formula develops quickly whilst avoiding the overly warm finish that some rapid tans can create. It leaves skin looking naturally sun-kissed rather than obviously fake-tanned, and with a believable depth that photographs beautifully. The colour guide makes application straightforward, and the fade is impressively even.

Editor review: "Amanda Harrington's Body Mousse in Olive is my perfect tan," says freelance beauty journalist, Ava Welsing-Kitcher. "Not only does it spread and soak into skin so easily, but the shade is also spot-on for my yellow-based natural skin tone. Plus, the brand's kabuki application brush makes it so easy to get into cracks and crevices like knuckles and between fingers."

[Amanda Harrington London has since announced its closure, and the products are no longer available; however, Bondi Sands also has a tanning foam for a deep olive tone.]

8. Filter By Molly Mae Tanning Mousse

Why we love it: This mousse applies smoothly, develops evenly and creates a rich, golden-brown finish that looks truly natural. Despite the depth of colour, it manages to look polished rather than overly intense, and the long-lasting wear and smooth fade make it particularly appealing for regular tanners.

Editor's review: "I wasn't expecting to love this tan as much as I do, but it's fast become a firm favourite, and even though I get sent fake tans to test (the perks of being a beauty editor!), I still find myself buying this one," says beauty contributor Grace Day. "It's the only tan I've used that looks totally natural—not too warm and not too cool—and it fades so subtly that you never notice it turning patchy."

9. Tan-Luxe Express Mousse

Why we love it: For anyone who wants flexibility without compromising on results, Tan-Luxe's Express Mousse ticks every box. The colour can be customised depending on how long you leave it on before rinsing, making it suitable for both subtle and deeper results. The formula feels lightweight and luxurious, spreading evenly across the skin with minimal effort.

Editor's review: "I've tried a lot of bad fake tans. I like my tan to give me a realistic glow—more my skin tone, but healthier-looking—and they have to be fuss-free. I'm not waiting around for my tan to develop, and I hate the feeling of sitting in a sticky fake tan for hours on end. So, lightweight and fast-acting formulas are my go-to. I've recently been testing Tan-Luxe Express Mousse, which is like having a pro tanner on speed dial to get you glowing within a matter of hours," says Who What Wear UK beauty editor, Eleanor Vousden.

10. St. Tropez Self Tan Luxe Body Serum

Why we love it: Part self-tan, part bodycare treatment, this serum is ideal for those who prioritise skincare alongside colour. The texture feels more like a premium body serum than a traditional tanning product, delivering hydration whilst gradually building a believable bronze. The result isn't dramatically dark, but that's precisely its appeal—if you prefer expensive-looking skin over an ultra-deep tan, this is one of the chicest options available.

11. Beauty Pie Awesome Bronze Gradual Tan Drops

Why we love it: Beauty Pie's gradual tanning drops are a clever option for anyone looking to weave tanning into their existing skincare routine. The formula allows for complete customisation and develops into a natural, flattering glow that can be maintained with regular use. It never feels heavy or greasy and layers easily with moisturiser, and the colour payoff is subtle but buildable, making it difficult to overdo.

12. St. Moriz Instant Tan

Why we love it: Not every tanning product needs to develop overnight, and that's where St. Moriz's instant tan comes into its own. Offering immediate colour payoff, it's perfect for last-minute events or occasions when you need a glow in minutes rather than hours. The finish is surprisingly convincing considering the affordable price point, delivering bronzed skin with minimal effort.

Editor's review: "Calling all fake-tan stans: this one's for you. I've finally done it: I've found what I believe to be the best instant tan on the market," says Rebecca Rhys-Evans, Who What Wear UK deputy editor. "And because I don't gatekeep, I'm happy to tell you that it's by St. Moritz. What makes it so good? Well, when applied with a mitt and moisturiser, it leaves not a single streak. It also has a lovely golden colour that makes you look like you've spent two weeks on a yacht in the Mediterranean. What's more, it's only £6!"

13. St. Tropez Gradual Tan Body Lotion

Why we love it: There's a reason this lotion remains a staple in so many beauty editors' bathrooms. The moisturising formula builds colour slowly and evenly, reducing the risk of streaks or patchiness. The texture feels nourishing enough to replace your regular body lotion, making maintenance effortless. For beginners, it's one of the safest recommendations on the market.

Editor's review: "Although I don't use instant tans or tanning mousses that much, I do love using a tanning milk or gradual tan in summer," says Grace Lindsay, Who What Wear UK deputy beauty editor. "I personally find them a lot easier to apply, and I like that you have control over the finished result depending on how often you use it. My favourite is this one from St. Tropez, a gradual-tanning lotion that feels hydrating on the skin and leaves you with a gorgeous glow."

14. Skin & Tan Coconut Water Clear Self-Tanning Mist

Why we love it: This lightweight face mist is ideal for anyone who finds traditional tanning formulas too heavy or cumbersome. The coconut water-infused formula feels refreshing on application and develops into a soft, natural-looking bronze, and the spray format makes it particularly useful for topping up existing colour or reaching awkward areas.

Editor's review: "The Skin & Tan Coconut Water Clear Self-Tanning Mist is my current favourite face tanner, and one of the best I’ve ever tried," says Georgia Seago, Who What Wear UK copy editor. "It’s a light and refreshing mist that smells like coconut, and it gives a gorgeously subtle, sun-kissed glow that’s undetectable as fake tan. Instead, it just makes you look fresher and more radiant with the slightest hint of colour. It doesn’t irritate my psoriasis, and it's foolproof to apply—I never have any patches, streaks or stains."

15. Gatineau Golden Glow Gradual Tan Cream

Why we love it: As you might expect from a skincare-first brand, Gatineau's gradual tan focuses just as much on skin condition as it does colour. The creamy formula nourishes while slowly building a believable golden glow over several applications.

Editor's review: "Everyone in the Who What Wear UK office knows that I love a fake tan and my absolute favourite is Gatineau’s Gradual Tan," says Poppy Nash, Who What Wear UK managing editor. "I don’t even know where to start with listing all the reasons I love it, but it boils down to the fact that it just works really, really well. It’s buildable, smells divine and leaves you with a lovely golden hue that doesn’t look fake or leave a horrible residue. I have multiple bottles at home and, needless to say, I’ll be gutted if it ever goes out of production!"

16. Tan-Luxe The Water Hydrating Self-Tan

Why we love it: Tan-Luxe's cult tanning water remains one of the most innovative formulas in the category. Completely clear and ultra-lightweight, it feels more like a facial mist than a self-tanner. The transparent formula means there's no guide colour, but it develops into a surprisingly even and natural-looking glow. The result is fresh, radiant skin that doesn't look overdone.

Editor's review: "I find it really hard to tan naturally (and I want to protect my skin from sun damage), so I heavily rely on fake tan to give me that extra glow," says Sophie Cookson, Who What Wear UK ecom analyst. "It's safe to say I've tried almost all major fake tans going, but the Tan-Luxe water self-tan is the trusty, reliable choice and my go-to. I love that it doesn't have a smell and that it doesn't stain my bedding or clothes.

"You can wear it all day without feeling like you've got it on, and it dries quickly. It can be quite subtle, so sometimes I opt for the dark option depending on the time of the year. The downside is that you can't see where you've applied, so you need to be consistent when using your mitt. That being said, I've never missed a spot where it looks really obvious. I also think it fades nicely; you can just reapply when you need to, as you don't go patchy."

17. Bondi Sands Self Tanning Foam

Why we love it: Few self-tans have achieved the popularity of Bondi Sands' original foam, and for good reason. The mousse formula is easy to apply, develops consistently and delivers a rich bronze that suits a wide range of skin tones. It strikes an impressive balance between affordability and performance, rivalling far more expensive formulas.

Editor's review: “I didn’t go through high school performing the weekly ritual of fake-tanning. I’d only ever used a gradual-tan moisturiser on occasion, meaning that my knowledge and interaction with the category was quite limited," says Ava Gilchrist, Who What Wear UK SEO writer. "It wasn’t until early last year that I decided to take a plunge into the foaming dark liquid and see what all the fuss was about. I can’t claim to have tried hundreds and know intimately what separates a good fake tan from a bad one, but this Bondi Sands tan was the first I picked up and the one I’ve remained loyal to ever since.

"I really enjoy the colour payoff as it isn’t too orange, but more of a sultry bronze that suits my undertone nicely. The aloe vera and coconut scent isn’t too overpowering, and I find it glides on easily and blends in wonderfully. It fades evenly and actually has never stained my sheets or clothes, which makes it a winning formula in my book."

Self-Tan, Instant Tan and Gradual Tan—What's the Difference?

There are so many types of tan out there. And whilst choice is great, it can be overwhelming if you're not sure where to start, especially as a fake-tan beginner. The best place to start is to choose a formulation that works best for your lifestyle and needs. Some tans will give you a glow for a week, whereas others will give an instant colour but wash off in the shower.

Self-Tan: Self-tan is a tanning formula that contains DHA, the ingredient that develops on the skin over several hours to give you a glow that will typically last for around a week and won't wash off during that time. "Self-tan is ideal for those looking for a long-lasting tan," says Bolder. "For those short on time and wanting a non-transfer or 'no need to rinse' formula, an express tan such as St. Tropez Express Mousse for one or two hours is a great option." It's the kind of tan you find in self-tanning drops for your face too.

Instant Tan: Instant tan, on the other hand, gives the skin an immediate deeper hue and will wash off in the shower. "Instant tan is a fantastic solution that washes off after one wear to top up your colour last-minute, add a sun-kissed glow to your pins or décolletage or even contour your face and body," says Bolder. Think of instant tan like bronzer for your face. You can wear it for an instant glow and wash it off at the end of the day.

Gradual Tan: "Gradual tan is ideal for people who love to create their own desired glow or are slightly nervous tanners, looking to apply a tanning lotion daily or every other day," says Bolder. You can apply it each day to build a subtle glow that you're happy with.

How to Choose the Right Tanning Product for Your Skin Tone

Whatever your skin tone, there is a tan to suit your complexion. "You can find the perfect tan for your skin tone that replicates the glow you would have if you were sat in the sun," says Bolder. "Lighter skin tones carry a cool pink or blue undertone; therefore, a light tanning solution such as a gradual tan or the St. Tropez Luxe Body Serum is for you. Medium skin tones carry a green undertone, which will suit a warmer tanning solution like St. Tropez Luxe Whipped Crème Mousse. Deeper skin tones carry a red undertone, [so it] is a great option to introduce a dark tan such as St. Tropez Extra Dark Mousse."

How to Prepare for Fake-Tan Application

Failing to prepare is preparing to fail when it comes to fake tan, whether you're applying it on the face or body.

To prepare the body for tan: "It all starts in the shower," says Bolder. "Exfoliate the body all over with an oil-free solution to buff away dead cells, unveiling a smooth and soft surface ahead of self-tan. Remove unwanted hair at this stage if you want to, then rinse your skin with cool water to reduce any inflammation and close your pores. Pat your skin dry and apply an oil-free moisturising lotion over any dry areas and wait a few minutes until the skin is cool and settled."

To prepare the face for tan: "Massage your usual cleanser into the skin before rinsing off and apply a hydrating serum and moisturiser. Add your SPF here if you are heading straight out afterwards," she says. "Avoid any exfoliating [ingredients] either in your toner or serum on the day of applying a fresh layer of self-tan."

How to Apply Fake Tan

"The best way to apply self-tan products is on freshly prepared skin with a clean tanning mitt and your chosen tanning solution," says Bolder. "Use long, sweeping, fast motions to move the self-tan freely around the skin, covering all areas. Begin on the legs and work your way up the body one area at a time," she says. "Don't rush the process—check that you have covered all areas evenly before putting the mitt down. Go over drier areas with the clean side of your mitt or a black sock to buff away any excess residue and blend the tan further."

If you're using tanning drops for the face or body, then simply add a couple of drops to your usual serum or moisturiser and follow the same steps.

Tanning Dos and Don'ts

To avoid mishaps, it's important to be clued up on the most common tanning mistakes. Applying tan last-minute and not preparing the skin correctly or at all is one of them. Bolder says, "Self-tan sits beautifully on a smooth, even surface, so applying tan onto dead and dry skin cells leaves your tan uneven and patchy."

To get the most out of your tan, it's important to follow a few pointers. "Avoid hot baths, exfoliating acids and oils applied directly to the skin, as this will enhance cell turnover and make the tan patchy," she says. "Moisturise, moisturise, moisturise! [Use] a moisturiser every day to keep your skin healthy and supple, resulting in a longer-lasting, glowing tan, and gently buff the skin on day three or four to help the tan fade evenly."

If, despite your best efforts, your tan has still gone awry, there are things you can do. "Always keep some tan-removal options in your kitchen cabinet or bathroom. St.Tropez Prep and Maintain Remover & Primer Mousse is a great one, which you can massage into the area that has overloaded self-tan, and wait five minutes before buffing with a tan-remover mitt to buff the tan away," she says. "An at-home option to remove self-tan is baking soda and lemon mixed into a paste and massaged into the area for a few minutes, then leave for another few minutes to break down the self-tan colour."

It's key to apply moisturiser to dry areas too. "Make sure you overload moisturiser on hands and wrists, feet and ankles, elbows, knees and all around your feet, as this will help to dilute the self-tan rather than the dry skin grabbing too much colour in one area," says Bolder.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.