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Breakthrough Self Tanning Products That You’ll Actually Want To Use

Glow 2.0 - by Arielle Tsoukatos
  • 22 Sep 2021
Breakthrough Self Tanning Products That You’ll Actually Want To Use

You can eschew any thoughts of heavy, sticky and smelly self-tanning products of beauty nightmares past. 2019 has ushered in a new crop of tanning products - formulated to be quick drying, odourless and weightless. Advancements in technology and smarter ingredients lead to a new generation of fake tan that’s designed not to look - dare we say it - fake.

When is the best time to tan? 

Bondi Sands co-founder Blair James warns against applying self-tanner after a shower or bath. Steam makes your pores expand – resulting in those pesky dark dots that commonly occur when applying fake tan to your legs or arms. For foolproof tanning, wait for your skin to cool down and always start at your feet as not to run the risk of creating lines or creases from bending over.

Here the best self-tanning products for foolproof streak-free application and a natural glow, without the telltale signs.

 

Bondi Sands Aero, $24.99 at Bondi Sands

Bondi Sands

From the number one selling brand globally, Bondi Sands unveiled this boundary-pushing bronzing mousse at Coachella. It's the tan du jour of Steph Claire Smith and selling out fast after launching on April 15. 

Aero is an aerated self-tanning foam which means it's weightless, ultra-fast drying and quick absorbing. Plus it's enriched with vitamin e and jojoba to nourish your skin and provide an even longer lasting tan.  

Fenty Beauty Body Lava, $82 at Sephora

Fenty

Although not your traditional tanning oil, Body Lava has earnt its position atop this list for two very important reasons. Firstly, it smells like heaven, is universally flattering on all skin tones and has an instant colour payoff. It's bottled sunshine. Secondly, and most importantly for anyone who has to doll out their own money for linen, it comes off when you're ready. 

Clarins Self Tanning Milky-Lotion, $40 at Adore Beauty

Clarins

This next-gen formula is a new complete face and body treatment, self-tanning and moisturising for 24 hours at the core of a rich and creamy milk. Aloe vera gel and Fig extract soften skin and ensure long-lasting hydration, with a fresh, fruity fragrance.

James Read Tan H2O Tan Mist, $39 at Mecca

tan

Boasting a two-weeks-in-Ibiza tan worthy glow, this translucent tanning mist is your passport to a fuss-free, streak-free tan. The gradual tan builds in intensity over time, so use daily until you reach your desired depth of tan and then just top it up 2-3 times a week. This sunless tan is formulated with organic rose water and vitamins and minerals to soothe, restore hydration. 

Vita Liberata Fabulous Self Tanning Tinted Lotion, $50 at Adore Beauty

Tan

This ultra-moisturising self-tanner is formulated with shea butter, vitamin E and hyaluronic acid for the softest skin of your life. Ideal for using on your face or body - this cult-status tanning product has amassed a legion of loyal followers during recent years. 

Elle Effect Tan Bottle, $45 at Mecca

Elle Effect

This beauty launch is a first for Australian fashion blogger Elle Ferguson. Just a few days after it’s release Kim Kardashian posted a photo of the sleek white bottle to her Instagram Story. Speaking of, the black-and-white design is fully customizable. Each tan kit comes with a sheet of cute millennial-friendly stickers. In addition, you get a reusable white bag which is perfect for travel and a clever tanning mitt for a full-proof application. 

RELATED: This Clear Self-Tanning Water Is A Complete Game Changer

St Tropez Self Tan Bronzing Water Mousse Purity, $44.95 at Chemist Warehouse

Fake Tan

Inspired by the booming global beauty trend - Korean beauty waters - this self-tanning mousse is weightless and clear just like, well, water. Bronzing waters are designed to refresh and revive skin for a healthy sunkissed glow, in lieu of a deep tan you might expect from a spray formula.      

Unlike their counterparts on the market, tanning water is colourless which is great for your sheets and bathroom tiles. Waters don't leave a guide colour on your skin so you won't see any results until the tan has developed.

RELATED: The New Drug That Can Give You A Safe Glowing Tan

Tan-Luxe The Water, $64 at Adore Beauty

Tan luxe

Another tanning water to make the list - are you sensing a pattern yet? This one is infused with vitamins B, C and E, Raspberry Seed Oil and natural tanning actives, your skin will be left hydrated, illuminated and bronzed. 

Kate Somerville Somerville360 Body Self Tan Towelettes, $73 at Mecca

kate Somerville

It’s easy to get a gorgeous glow with just a simple swipe. Somerville360 Tanning Towelettes offer an incredible sun-kissed look that doesn’t require SPF. With a quick and easy application that prevents uneven tone or streaking, it’s the best way to get a healthy-looking tan.

Kora Organics Gradual Self-Tanning Lotion, $62 at adorebeauty.com.au

Fake-tan

This organic lavender-scented lotion is ideal for reactive skin types, gently imparting a golden glow while also maintaining its non-greasy, fast-drying status.

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Arielle Tsoukatos
Arielle Tsoukatos
Arielle is a contributor to marie claire Australia. A few career highlights include; lunch with Kim Cattrall, interviewing Naomi Watts and swapping make-up tips with Margot Robbie on the red carpet. You can find her words on InStyle, marie claire and Women's Health.

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