An experienced beauty journalist tested 28 self-tan products over 12 weeks to find the best fake tans for a sunkissed, streak-free glow. The winner is Bare by Vogue Williams Clear Tan Water, praised for its hydrating formula and even tan development in four hours.
Best Fake Tan Overall: Bare by Vogue Williams Clear Tan Water
Bare by Vogue Williams Clear Tan Water costs £17.25 for 150ml at Boots. It sprays as a colourless foam that dries quickly, requiring fast application. The formula contains fruit extracts and aloe vera, leaving skin smooth and hydrated. The tester used the dark shade and achieved an even golden glow after four hours, lasting three days without dryness or transfer to sheets.
Best Budget Fake Tan: Dove Summer Revived Sunkissed Glow
Dove Summer Revived Sunkissed Glow + Pro-Ceramides gradual tan lotion is £4.99 for 200ml at Boots. It has a velvety texture that melts into skin, with pro-ceramides, niacinamide, aloe vera and glycerine for hydration. The light fruity scent is not overpowering. One application gives subtle results, and it is ideal for beginners.
Best Fake Tan Drops: Caudalíe Self-Tan Sun Drops
Caudalíe Self-Tan Sun Drops cost £15.20 for 15ml at Cult Beauty. They have zero odour and can be mixed with moisturiser. The formula includes grape water for hydration. The tester found two drops subtle, four drops ideal, and colour faded naturally over two days even with acids in skincare.
Best Fake Tan for Mature Skin: St Tropez Luxe Body Serum
St Tropez Luxe Body Serum is £18.95 for 200ml at Amazon. It contains niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5 to hydrate and firm skin. The lightweight, non-greasy serum dries quickly and gives a natural bronze colour after eight hours. It is suitable for those wanting a no-rinse formula.
Best Gradual Tan: Gatineau Golden Glow Gradual Tan
Gatineau Golden Glow Gradual Tan costs £44 for 400ml at Lookfantastic. This cream-gel formula includes coconut oil and vitamin E. It has notes of pear, mandarin, sandalwood and musk. One layer gives a subtle, streak-free glow in about four hours. It is cruelty-free but not vegan.
Best Fake Tan with a Mitt: Bali Body Deep Violet Self-Tanning Mousse
Bali Body Deep Violet Self-Tanning Mousse is £30.99 for 200ml at John Lewis. It has a violet base to counteract yellow and orange undertones, enriched with nourishing oils. The mousse glides on easily and absorbs quickly. Colour develops in six to eight hours and lasts up to seven days.
Other Notable Products
Dr Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Glow Pads
These pads exfoliate and tan in one step, infused with glycolic and salicylic acids, vitamin E and phospholipids. They cost £46 for eight at Cult Beauty. Colour develops in one hour. They are not the easiest to apply and are expensive.
Self Glow by James Read Golden Days Milky Tan Toner
This toner is infused with centella asiatica and liquorice root extract. It costs £29.94 for 80ml at QVC. It layers well under serums but the mist can be uneven. Apply at night to avoid affecting SPF.
Ultrasun After Sun Tan Booster
This soothing after-sun contains gradual self-tan. It costs £24 for 150ml at Lookfantastic. It absorbs quickly and gives a natural colour. Best for prolonging a holiday tan.
This Works Perfect Legs Skin Miracle
This tinted plant-based serum provides instant coverage and is sweat-proof. It costs £33.75 for 150ml at Lookfantastic. It is buildable and does not transfer to clothing, but is messy to apply.
How to Use Fake Tan
Exfoliate 24 hours before tanning. Apply moisturiser to dry areas like ankles, hands, knees and elbows. Tan from the bottom up. Use a mitt to avoid orange palms. Respect the marinating time and wear dark, loose clothing.
How to Choose the Best Fake Tan for Your Skin
For dry skin, choose lotions or gradual tans with hydrating ingredients. For oily or acne-prone skin, use non-comedogenic mousses or sprays. Sensitive skin should opt for fragrance-free options. Express self-tans are good for breakout-prone skin.
How Long Does Fake Tan Last?
Fake tan typically lasts five to seven days. Moisturise daily with an oil-free moisturiser to prolong the tan. Avoid chlorine and long baths.
Should You Moisturise Before Fake Tan?
Yes, moisturising after exfoliating prevents dehydration and patchiness. Pay attention to knees, elbows and ankles 24 hours before tanning.
How to Remove Fake Tan
Use a dedicated fake tan remover with exfoliating acids. For hands, apply a self-tan remover or soak in baby oil, olive oil or coconut oil for 10-15 minutes, then gently exfoliate.
Can You Use Fake Tan When Pregnant?
Fake tan is safe during pregnancy, but do a patch test 24 hours before use due to hormonal sensitivity. If breastfeeding, avoid tanning the breasts. Consult a GP if unsure.
