Forget tangerine tones and streaky-looking legs, these days, the best fake tans sink straight into the skin for a natural-looking glow. Furthermore, most tanning formulas are now also fragrance-free which means no more tell-tale biscuity smells.“When it comes to self-tan there isn’t a ‘one size fits all’ approach,” saysTan Truth expert Carly McMilla. “We’re in an era where choosing your tan can be as personal as choosing your favourite fragrance.”In fact, there’s almost too much to choose from, which is why we’ve asked the experts for their top tips on how to find the right formula for your skin.
Read More
Face Feeling Dry? Experts On The Best Moisturisers For Every Single Skin Type
By Hannah Coates, Twiggy Jalloh and Tracy Achonwa
What is the best fake tan?
Whether you want to add a little extra colour to a paler complexion or deepen and add glow to darker skin tones, rest assured, there is a formula out there for you.
“The best fake tan is a solution that offers the skin hydration and support while creating your desired glow,” says Michaella Bolder, tanning and skincare expert atSt.Tropez. “Choosing the right tanning solution is essential to a natural healthy looking tan.”
As a general rule, if you have fairer skin, Bolder suggests a gradual or serum tanning solution, which you can slowly build up as needed, whereas those with medium skin tones can opt for something richer such as a mousse or lotion, while those with darker tones should choose an extra dark formula or double up using a deep, rich tanning product.
Read more:14 Of The Best Bronzers For The Ultimate Sun-Kissed Glow
How long does fake tan last on skin?
The duration of your tan depends on a few factors: skin tone, moisture levels, whether you’ve exfoliated beforehand, how many baths you take, how rigorously you dry yourself and how hot the water is. Generally speaking your tan will last between seven to 10 days.“Fake tan is the result of a chemical reaction on the surface of the skin,” says Bolder. “This response of DHA combined with amino acids on the skin creates a golden hue that should last around the same time as your skin cell cycle.”
There are some measures you can take to prolong your tan.“It’s all in the prep and aftercare,” says McMilla. Exfoliate prior to tanning; keep the skin hydrated and wellmoisturised; swap baths for short, warm showers, opting for a warm temperature as opposed to hot; and pat the skin dry as opposed to rubbing it.
How do you apply fake tan?
You’ve found the right formula, now all you need to do is apply it correctly. Even the best fake tan can fail if applied incorrectly. Here’s where your prep comes in. “Before you start, it's essential to prepare your skin,” says Nicky Matthews, founder of Sienna X. “Wax or shave at least 24-48 hours before applying your fake tan to prevent dotting in open pores. Exfoliate andmoisturise the night before, paying extra attention to dry areas like your elbows, hands, knees, and ankles. Avoid using deodorant, perfume, or make-up before applying your fake tan. And tie up your hair up off your face and neck.”
