Which self-tan is right for your skin type?
If you're looking to find your ultimate faux glow, the first point of call is to determine the right formula for your skin type. Not all tans were created equal, and finding the perfect bronze all comes down to the ingredients inside. From water-based to fragrance-free, there's a glow-giving formula to suit every complexion, and we've revealed everything you should be looking for to get the best results.
Pre-tan prep
Skin prep is crucial, particularly for dry skin types, to achieve the most flawless finish and long-lasting results. A good cleanse and exfoliation at least 24 hours before you plan to tan helps to replenish the top layer of skin, plus remove any flaky patches and dead cells. Moisturisation in the days after tanning is also key to keeping your colour glowing for longer, particularly on areas such as elbows, knees, wrists and ankles.
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RRP: £10.00Current price: £7.00
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RRP: £9.99Current price: £7.15
Dry skin
If you experience dryness on your face or body, opt for a tan with ultra hydrating ingredients. Formulas enriched with ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, coconut oil or shea butter will work to lock in moisture for longer and help to reduce the appearance of patchiness on the skin.
The best tans for dry skin types
Tanologist Insta Glow Face Cream
Smooth and lightweight, add a touch of radiance to your complexion with Tanologist’s Insta Glow Face Cream, a blend of moisturising ingredients that brighten dry, dull skin. The formula offers an instant boost of luminosity as it works to blurs the appearance of imperfections, leaving your skin feeling hydrated and nourished with a sun-kissed glow.
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RRP: £11.99Current price: £10.79
Tan-Luxe The Water Hydrating Self-Tan Water
Water-based tans are a great option for those in need of some extra hydration. This clear-to-bronze formula incorporates a unique blend of vitamins B, C & E, plus raspberry oil and aloe vera to moisturise and nourish the skin. Not only this, but the Moisture Balance Complex and Hydra-Tan formula help to reduce patchiness and streaks to leave a flawless-looking finish.
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£34.00
Face by Skinny Tan Moisturising Oil Drops
Fast-absorbing, lightweight and enriched with hydrating aloe vera, these moisturising oil drops from Skinny Tan are ideal for complexions on the drier side. Designed to be used alone or combined with your favourite moisturiser, the coconut and caramel-scented formula can be built up for a customisable glow.
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RRP: £29.99Current price: £20.99
Sensitive skin
Sensitive skin types can still use self-tan! The important thing when choosing a faux glow is to opt for gentle formula, incorporating nourishing natural ingredients such as aloe vera and coconut water. These will help to keep the complexion soft, nourished and feeling comfortable.
Once you have chosen a tan, always do a patch test at least 24 to 48 hours before applying over your whole body. If any irritation occurs, stop using the product immediately.
The best tans for sensitive skin
St. Tropez Self Tan Purity Face Mist
Enriched with hyaluronic acid, this face mist is a must-have in your beach bag. While delivering the brand’s signature golden glow, it infuses the skin with a boost of moisture with the addition of green mandarin water, offering a refreshing, cooling sensation – as hibiscus is gentle on the skin and works to protect against environmental aggressors.
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RRP: £24.00Current price: £14.40
SOSU Cosmetics Dripping Gold Fragrance Free Wonder Water
Free from fragrance and enriched with vitamin E, this Wonder Water Tan is ideal for those with sensitive complexions. Offering a blurring effect and a streak-free finish, this facial tan is ideal for no-makeup days, giving skin a touch of natural radiance.
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He-Shi Hydra Luxe Lotion
Packed with naturally-derived ingredients, this luxurious lotion from He-Shi is infused with a soothing blend of aloe vera, pro-vitamin B5 and vitamin E. Offering long-lasting hydration and an even bronzed finish, this premium formula is ideal for those seeking soothing skincare benefits.
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RRP: £20.00Current price: £8.00
NUXE Face and Body Sun Tanning Oil SPF 30
Protecting your skin against UVA and UBV rays while in the sun is essential for any skin type, but particularly for sensitive skin. You don’t have to compromise on your bronzed look with NUXE’s Face and Body Sun Tanning Oil with SPF 30, featuring a satin finish formula that won’t leave you feeling sticky or greasy. The brand’s patented filtering complex offers broad-spectrum sun protection while rosemary and botanical rice extracts deliver nourishment and hydration.
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RRP: £23.00Current price: £18.40
Oily skin
For those who require a bit of oil control, steer clear of oil-based tans and opt for lighter formulas instead, such as a mousse or water. If you are also prone to breakouts from excess oil, look for key ingredients such as aloe vera and vitamin E which are lightweight, nourishing and have cleansing properties.
The best tans for oily skin
Tan-Luxe Super Glow Hyaluronic Self-T an Serum
Though it may feel counter-productive, keeping oily skin moisturised is essential. These hyaluronic acid-infused drops are a great option for those looking to keep their skin healthy and glowing. A gradual formula, the drops are infused with skin-loving ingredients such as cocoa seed extract to protect from environmental aggressors and keep the complexion plump.
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RRP: £36.00Current price: £25.20
Coco and Eve Bali Bronzing Foam
This weightless foam formula is ideal for oily skin types, drying down quickly with a non-sticky finish. Topped with a delicious tropical mango and guava scent, the express formula develops in just two hours, leaving the skin glowing and bronzed.
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RRP: £26.00Current price: £22.10
Isle of Paradise Express Mousse
Ultra hydrating yet lightweight, the Isle of Paradise Express Mousse works to provide a sun-kissed glow in just 30 minutes. Packed with natural tanning actives and brightening vitamin C, you’ll feel soft and supple for up to 24 hours with an effortless, even application that leaves no sticky residue on the skin.
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£21.95
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!
