If Fake Tan Intimidates You, These Foolproof Formulas Are Worth Your Time
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
This body formula from one of the best tanning brands out there, Isle of Paradise, couldn't be easier to use. Forget dry patches and moisturiser-induced streaks. This stuff is formulated with moisture-boosting hyaluronic acid for the ultimate hydrated glow. Plus, the formula itself is beautifully gradual.
Another hyaluronic acid infused serum is this one from Tan-Luxe. If you like every aspect of your beauty routine to be a little more, well, luxe, then this one is for you. Simply pop a few pumps onto a mitt and apply all over for a transfer-free, deeply hydrated subtle glow.
Speaking of Tan-Luxe, the brand's newest launch (developed with Paris Hilton) is here to make your experience so much easier. The spray-on formula is so quick to use. Simply apply the mist, blend with the mitt and wait for your tan to develop.
Taking it one step further, this clear tanning mist from St. Tropez not only contains hydrating hyaluronic acid, but it is also infused with other skin-loving boosters such as vitamins C and D to boost glow. Simply spritz and blend with a mitt. It really is that easy.
For those who want dramatic results without the threat of uneven streaks and dry patches, look no further than Sunny Honey from Coco Eve. In a more traditional mousse formula, it does have a guide colour that needs rinsing, but the nourishing ingredients mean it applies like silk. What's better is that the results are next-level.
I have raved about this tan since it first came out. In fact, this was the stuff that first convinced me that not all fake tan is awful. The texture is whipped rather than foamy, which means dripping and smudging is virtually impossible. Plus, if you don't want such dramatic results, simply wash it off earlier than you usually would. It's seriously simple.
Ideal for those who like to be in control, this lightweight, oil-infused moisturiser not only nourishes dry limbs but also delivers a streak-free tanned glow. You can use it every day to build up the intensity or, if you're feeling cautious, just use it every few days.
If you don't want to commit to a full week of tan, fear not, wash-off tans are a thing too, and they're brilliant. This particular bronzing liquid from By Terry can be applied to the face or body for an antioxidant-rich glow.
The Best Easy-to-Use Fake-Tan Formulas For the Face
This self-tanning serum contains not only hyaluronic acid for deep hydration but also SPF30 for extra protection. Impressive, right?
Avoid orange palms with this super-light bronzing water mist. With no blending necessary, just mist whenever you fancy (before makeup or after) for a buildable, natural-looking tan.
This is a personal favourite, and not a night goes by when I don't use this stuff. Also with vitamin C and hyaluronic acid, it's hydrating and radiance-boosting, but it also has me waking up with a glow that looks seriously convincing and natural.
With jojoba, apricot and plum oils to create next-level suppleness and Omorovicza's famous healing concentrate, this face tanner really does feel more like an everyday skincare product than a fake tan.
Just like the body version, this serum is jam-packed with skin-loving ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and vitamin C to boost radiance and glow. Either apply directly onto the skin as a part of your skincare routine or add a few pumps to your SPF for a bronzed finish that develops within hours.
Best used when mixed in with your go-to moisturiser, these drops give the most natural-looking, sun-kissed finish. Just make sure you wash your hands thoroughly afterwards!
Although Oskia isn't a tanning brand, this mist is without a doubt one of the best facial tanners out there. A quick mist over the face will deliver a radiant, glowing, healthy-looking tan.
This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
Shannon Lawlor is a renowned beauty journalist and has contributed toBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing ’s beauty content since 2020. As a leading beauty editor, expert and brand consultant, she has over eight years of experience working for some of the industry’s most esteemed titles, includingBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing (of course), Glamour UK, Stylist, Refinery29 and Fabulous. Having also worked behind the scenes with some of the industry’s biggest brands and retailers, Shannon has a unique insight into what people really want from their beauty routines. Understanding that beauty lovers seek honest, open and responsible advice, she has it made her mission to demystify the intimidating world of beauty, taking a no-frills approach to the most relatable topics. While Shannon is the first to admit she doesn’t hold the answer to every beauty question out there, she is dedicated to sharing her expert insights in a bid to help. As a self-proclaimed lazy girl, Shannon has an affinity for easy-to-use, foolproof beauty products and has made it her mission to scope out the best of the best. When she’s not working, Shannon is likely soaking in the bath or giving no-holds-barred beauty reviews on Instagram from her bathroom floor.
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