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The best fake tans to get your skin glowing just in time for spring
The sun is finally starting to show its face – and with it comes the slow return of lighter layers, shorter hemlines and those strappy dresses we’ve been patiently waiting to wear again. As spring wardrobes make their long-awaited debut, it also means one thing: a little more skin on show.
If, like many of us, your legs and arms have spent the past few months hidden under jumpers and denim, you might be feeling in need of a quick glow-up before stepping out. Thankfully, fake tans make it easier than ever to cheat that just-back-from-holiday radiance.
From gradual lotions that build a believable glow to instant mousses that deliver bronzed results in hours, the latest formulas are streak-free, natural-looking and far removed from the orange disasters of the past. Whether you’re a tanning novice or a seasoned pro, these are the best fake tans on the high street to help you glow into spring.
Shop the best fake tans:
Isle of Paradise Gradual Self-Tan Lotion Light/Medium
Perfect for fake tan beginners, and when you’re in need of a little boost between tanning time, this hydrating gradual lotion builds a believable glow over a few days rather than overnight.
It’s infused with colour-correcting actives and nourishing ingredients like avocado, chia seed and coconut oils, so it hydrates while subtly deepening your skin tone.
Apply like a normal moisturiser and let the glow build naturally.
Bondi Sands Self Tanning Foam One Hour Express
If you want a tan fast, this express mousse delivers bronzed results in as little as an hour.
The lightweight foam from Bondi Sands develops gradually depending on how long you leave it on.
One hour will give you a light glow, then leave it longer for a deeper bronze. It’s quick-drying, easy to blend and gives that holiday-style tan without the need for sunshine.
St. Moritz Advanced Gradual Self-Tanning Face Mist
Sometimes all you need is a quick top-up on your face rather than your whole body, so tanning face mist is easy to use and fuss-free.
Spritz over as you usually would a face mist, and then you can leave to work its magic with no buffing required.
It is formulated with hydrating ingredients and a gradual buildable colour, it’s perfect for adding a subtle glow to your complexion without clogging pores or disrupting your skincare routine.
SKIN & TAN 1 Day Instant Tanner 100ml
Have you ever had one of those moments where you’re about to head out of the door and realise you either missed a spot, or you’re looking like Casper the friendly ghost?
Don’t worry, we’ve all been there. This Skin & Tan Instant Tanner is brilliant to give you a tan instantly, whilst being able to be washed off at the end of the day.
Sol de Janeiro GlowMotions Copacabana Bronze Glow Body Oil
Whilst this isn’t technically a self-tan, this shimmering body oil gives skin an instant sun-kissed glow as soon as you apply.
Packed with nourishing oils and light-reflecting shimmer, it smooths onto the skin to create a bronzed, glossy finish that looks incredible on shoulders, legs and collarbones.
Think: beach holiday glow in a bottle with Sol de Janerio’s signature summer scent.
Coco & Eve Sunny Honey Anti-Ageing Tanning Serum
This lightweight serum from Coco & Eve blends anti-ageing skincare ingredients with gradual tanning actives to create a radiant glow while hydrating and smoothing the skin.
Ideal for anyone who wants their tan to work a little harder.
Simply apply 3-5 pumps to your face and neck every other day to build up to your desired glow.
Filter by Molly Mae Tanning Drops
If you prefer your glow to look subtle, these customisable tanning drops are one of the easiest ways to fake it.
Mix a few drops into your daily moisturiser for a subtle glow, or increase the amount for a deeper colour.
The tanning drops are enriched with hydrating aloe leaf and banana flower extract, to keep skin moisturised.
Expect a natural, streak-free finish in around 4–6 hours.
If you’re worried about distributing it evenly, then use a buffer to buff it out for a seamless blend.
Vita Liberata Body Blur Medium
If you want the glow without committing to a full fake tan, this cult body makeup is the ultimate quick fix.
Think of a foundation for your body that instantly bronzes and blurs such things as uneven skintone, texture and redness.
It’s packed with hydrating ingredients such as glycerin and shea butter, whilst the tint can be easily washed off.
This is perfect for bare-leg days or special occasions when you want your skin to have the sun-kissed, polished finish.
Rose & Caramel Purity Reset 4-in-1 Self Tan Removing Gloves
We’ve all been there when we think we’ve perfected the tan to only be left with patches, dark spots or dry areas.
Thankfully, Rose & Caramel have developed tan-removing gloves so you can easily correct and help remove stubborn tan build-up whilst smoothing and prepping the skin for the next application.
They’re brilliant to use before your tanning sessions and to have in the bathroom cupboard if you’re an avid tanner.
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