‘I’m a fake-tan devotee. These are the formulas I swear by for a streak-free glow’
Updated
While there’s no such thing as a healthy tan, it’s easier than ever to recreate a sun-kissed glow without the sun damage. Here on Aussie shores we’re spoilt for choice when it comes to self-tanning products, with all kinds of foams, milks, drops and instant formulas to choose from.
I’ve been a long-time user of fake tans, trying and testing out many of the bestsellers on the market. Whether you’re a tanning pro or novice, I’ve put together my seven fail-safe favourites that achieve a subtle, bronzed look every time.
Me, Holly, a fake-tan devotee wearing the Tanologist Tanning Drops. Supplied
NOTE: Prices are accurate at the time of publishing.
Le Tan Classic Foam, $15.89
Bronze limbs with Le Tan this summer. Le Tan
Despite feeling sticky when applied, traditional foam formulas, like the Le Tan Classic Foam, are my ride-or-die when it comes to tanning. To develop an even, long-lasting tan, it’s best to sleep in it, but you’ll be able to wash away the surface bronzer and reveal a gorgeous glow come morning.
Luna Bronze Tanning Water, $36.95
Luna Bronze promises a natural-looking tan. Luna Bronze
For a natural-looking glow, I switch out my trusty foam formula in favour of tanning water. Specifically, Luna Bronze, the Aussie-made brand said to be one of Hilary Duff’s favourites. It’s so easy to apply; just be sure to thoroughly wash your hands afterwards.
Tanologist Tanning Drops, $23.99
Add a few tanning drops to your moisturiser. Tanologist
Whenever my complexion is looking a little dull or lacklustre, I add a few tanning drops to my face moisturiser. Since it has all the skin-loving ingredients (pink grapefruit, goji berry and juniper), I wake up to hydrated, smooth skin, with the added bonus of a natural-looking bronze.
Bondi Sands Glo Instant Bronzer, was $$24.99, now $12.49
Use an instant tan to bronze before leaving the house. Bondi Sands
If I have a date in the diary and my limbs require a little extra bronze, I use instant formula as a top-up. It’s easy to blend (using a mitt), and it doesn’t transfer onto clothes. Best yet, it can be washed off in the shower when I get home.
Bali Body Self Tanning Milk, $31.95
Bali Body contains skin-loving ingredients. Bali Body
Similar to a tanning water, a milk-like formula tends to be super lightweight on the skin and full of moisturising ingredients. Free from that sticky feeling (or streaks) I find this develops into a natural-looking tan within four hours.
St Tropez Gradual Tan Tinted Daily Firming Lotion, $37.99
Moisturise limbs and add a subtle glow. St Tropez
If you love the look of a subtle self-tan but hate the hassle of applying, then a gradual tanning lotion will be your best bet. For evenings when I am short of time, I step out of the shower and apply this moisturiser for a full-body glow.
Coco & Eve Anti-Aging Tanning Serum, $49
Coco & Eve is a favourite among Aussies. Coco & Eve
I recently came across this tanning serum, and it’s become a staple in my evening routine. Unlike tanning drops that are added into a moisturiser, this serum can be applied straight onto the skin after cleansing, making it completely buildable.