How to fake tan medium to dark skin tones
With the typically grey and dreary UK weather, it’s common for most of us to experience a serious lack of sun rays. Since the sunshine doesn’t make an appearance often, we've been turning to our favourite tanning products to give ourselves a much-needed faux glow. While many people associate tanning products with fairer skin tones, there’s a glow-boosting formula out there for everyone. Whatever your hue, bronzing from a bottle is a great way to enhance your natural skin tone, or give your complexion a sun-kissed boost.
If you’re unsure which tanning product or shade is the right one for you, then look no further, as we’re here to explain the best ways to choose, apply and preserve your fake tan on medium to dark skin tones.
Can you wear fake tan if you have a medium or dark skin tone?
Absolutely! Using a good quality self-tanner can make any skin tone look more hydrated and glowy. Let’s face it – who doesn’t want more youthful-looking, radiant skin?!
What are the benefits of using tan on darker complexions?
Many fake tanners do more than just give you a glow. Brands now offer formulas that hydrate and smoothen the skin while adding a little (or a lot!) of radiance to your body and complexion when you need it most. Ingredients like aloe vera, shea butter and hyaluronic acid are common in self-tanners and can leave you feeling nourished and hydrated, helping to keep dryness at bay as long as your tan lasts.
What type of tanning formula is best to use on darker skin tones?
The type of tan you opt for depends on your personal preference and your skin
On the other hand, for normal to dry skin types, a lotion might be better to add more nourishment, as you can indulge in hydrating blends containing skin-loving ingredients like shea butter and hyaluronic acid.
What type of tanning product should I go for?
For a sun-kissed glow:
If you want to add a touch of warmth to your skin with a subtle, sun-kissed glow, choose a gradual tanning lotion. Just like a body moisturiser, use daily for a nourishing, buildable colour so it’s always perfectly suited to your skin tone. Remember to wash your hands after applying to avoid tinted palms!
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For a bronzed goddess look:
To step up your colour for summer, choose a dark/extra dark tan that works to transform your skin with a more radiant-looking glow. Apply the product with a mitt or brush for a smooth, streak-free finish and wait the recommended time for the formula to develop into your desired colour before washing off. With deliciously scented ingredients like exotic coconut and aloe vera, the Bondi Sands Self Tanning Foam is a perfect choice to achieve that bronzed goddess look without having to worry about that unwanted fake tan smell lingering!
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For a show-stopping glow:
Got last-minute plans and want that celebrity, glossy skin look? Grab a zero-commitment, instant tan that you can wash off at the end of the day to achieve that show-stopping glow. Applied within minutes, choose a dark formula like the Dripping Gold Bahama Body Instant Tan, as it works to immediately leave the skin looking more radiant, hydrated, and visibly nourished for up to 72 hours.
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SPF is your BFF
If you think that darker skin tones don’t need as much SPF protection, think again. You should be applying SPF every day, on every part of your body that is exposed. Even in the UK, damaging UV rays are still present, so this is a vital step to build into your routine. Skin damage, premature ageing and discolouration are just some of the effects of skipping sunscreen, regardless of skin tone.
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It’s all in the prep!
Make sure to exfoliate well before application for a smooth and flawless-looking result, focusing on areas of dry skin like knees, elbows, underarms, hands and feet using an oil-free skin polish or scrub. It's a vital step for an even finish! With this prep, you can lay down a smooth and clean canvas for your tanning product, ensuring even application.
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My large family of mainly women has made me passionate about all things beauty from a young age: from routines passed down from my grandmother, to trying the latest products and trends. After training as an MUA at MAC Cosmetics, my love for makeup has now evolved into making sure my skincare creates the perfect canvas for any look. I love anything that can make my base feel fresh & bright while accentuating my features – Bobbi Brown's Face Base is my holy grail at the moment!
