Fake tanning is a love-hate beauty ritual: the glow is great, but stained sheets are not. Clear tanning formulas promise a bronzed look without the mess, and we tested popular options to see if they deliver.
Nip + Fab's invisible tan mist uses glycolic acid for even fading. Tester Rosie found it refreshing and non-sticky, but application was tricky due to the invisible mist. She woke up to an even colour, with minor streaks on her wrists.
St. Tropez's clear gel, a first-timer's choice, develops in three hours with a tropical scent. Tester Megan B achieved a bronze glow on legs and arms, but noted patchiness on wrists despite using a mitt. She would use it again with practice.
Bondi Sands' clear mousse comes in light, medium, and dark shades. Tester Megan R, a regular tanner, left the dark version on overnight and woke to a natural golden shade that lasted a week. She praised its ease of application and lack of stickiness.
St. Moriz's clear tan develops in one hour and has a mood-boosting scent. Tester Bex found it didn't mark sheets and lasted long, but the tone was too yellow for her. She advised leaving it on for less time.
Skin + Tan's clear mousse delivers a deep natural glow with hydrating ingredients. The tester, an experienced tanner, achieved an even tan that fades nicely and doesn't stain sheets. She recommended guide colours for beginners.
Finally, Bondi Sands' affordable clear gel offers a deep bronze with hyaluronic acid and vitamin C. The tester found it easy to apply, with a natural colour that lasted well and left no marks on bedding.
