Whether the sun will bless the UK for more than a week this year is yet to be seen, however, that doesn’t mean you can’t radiate a holiday glow this year with no sun damage needed.
I’ve tried many products over the years to help achieve this, as a UK vacation enthusiast who wants to appear they’ve had a two week holiday in Menorca, without the sun burn or added expense.
To get that sun-kissed look, you need a mixture of the right colour, texture and glow, to get a natural looking tan that lasts more than a few days and doesn’t go streaky.
Here are some life saving products that transform your skin from a washed out vampire (sorry Twilight lovers) to a glowing goddess in time for summer.
This is my go to drugstore alternative, it’s a little bottle of gold when it comes to an affordable tan you can get on any high street.
Priced at only £4.99, you really can’t find better under a tenner.
It has a smooth and anti – green finish leaving a bronzed glow after one single coat, and although it does have a slight biscuit smell, it’s not overpowering compared to many high end options.
I’d recommend leaving on overnight or for around 8 hours until the tan has developed, then just wash off until you have your desired colour.
Plus it’s dermatology tested, cruelty free and vegan, removing all nasties like harsh parabens & sulphates which may react to those with sensitive skin.
2. Tanologist Insta Glow £9.24
For the less patient customer that wants quick results with a little more to spend give this a try…
The Insta Glow is a body makeup formula that is enriched in skincare benefits like hyaluronic acid and panthenol which is great for adding moisture into your skin, something a tanning bed does not achieve.
Most importantly it’s great for an added glow in a rush, whether you’re running late for work or you just want a bit of something on your legs on a hot day.
And don’t worry, your white clothes are safe, it has a non stick formula which doesn’t run when you sweat or layer it on.
3. Tan-luxe The Face Tanning Drops £15
Your body and face need to be on the same wave length, why rely on foundation to perfectly match your bronzed body when you can match it yourself.
Just mix a drop or two into your daily moisturizer once a week and let them do their magic.
Although, these drops may be small in bottle but they are mighty, a little goes a long way and you don’t want to end up looking like a certain United States president.
However, it’s perfect for days when you want to wear minimal makeup, great for hot afternoons when makeup may melt off but the tan stays glowing.
4. Sol de Janeiro Copacabana Glowmotions Glow Body Oil £31.50
Sun in a bottle that’s all I can say.
No really, it makes you feel like you’ve had a week in Brazil, laying on soft sand, with a pina colada in hand, skin smelling of fresh coconuts and warm ocean breeze.
Apply to clean skin, preferably moisturized for a soft, long lasting finish.
It’s warm bronzed tint can be added to an existing tan to accentuate it’s colour or on dry, untouched skin that just craves a bit of shimmer.
It’s a tad bit more in price, although I personally feel it makes up for it in longevity and head turning radiance.
5. Bondi Sands Self Tanning Foam One Hour Express £13.50
Lastly, a long time favourite, which has saved me in many last minute event occasions.
A fake tan with no harsh scents that takes an hour to develop, a two in one deal, plus you can break the rules if you have a little more time, letting it develop into a darker tan.
It’s lightweight formula is usually used for just the body, but people forget you can also add it to your skincare routine as a last step.
I even like to take a makeup brush and use it as a natural contour to minimise my use of makeup.
A round up
Fake tan is always a better option than exposing your skin to the sun or generated UV lights unprotected, it allows you to feel you’re sun-kissed self without the sunburn, heatstroke, or risk of skin cancer.
These are only a few of high street to luxury products available on the market, hopefully this has helped if you are a fake tan enthusiast looking for a new purchase, or a first time tanner looking to make the best choice.
Whatever it is, remember to protect your skin with sun cream when exposed and let your “natural” wink wink, glow shine through.
