I don’t know about you, but I always feel amazing with a tan. There’s nothing better than a gorgeous, bronzy glow. Unfortunately, laying out in the sun for hours is pretty damaging for your skin and during the winter, it’s not always possible. The right luxury self-tanner can give you a sun-kissed glow all year round, and no-one has to know it’s fake. There are lots of different types available, from bronzing drops and instant tans to lotions that help you build up a glow over time. Whatever your preference, I’ve got you covered with this list of the best self-tanners out there. 

Application Tips

Before we dive into the best self-tanners on the market, I want to share a few tips on how to apply the product. Even the highest quality self-tanners can look patchy and weird when applied incorrectly. Here’s what to do:

1. Use a mitt. This will help you achieve an even application and will save your hands from the dreaded orange stains. I prefer velvet mitts, like this one, as they’re less likely to leave streaks behind.
   
   
   
2. Wait 24 hours after shaving. I know it might seem easier to shave your legs and self-tan all in one go, but it’s not a good idea. Shaving opens up your pores and causes the skin to absorb more product which can result in a patchy tan. The same goes for waxing and epilating, too. I like to leave 24 hours between, but sometimes it’s hard to be that organised. A few hours should be ok, but a full day is ideal. 
   
   
   
3. Exfoliate. Gently exfoliate your body before applying self-tanner, but don’t be too vigorous. Exfoliation leaves the skin smooth and supple, which means you’ll have an even tan for longer.
   
   
   
4. Moisturize dry areas. Applying a thin layer of moisturizer to your elbows, knees, hands, feet and armpits stops the product from clinging. 
   
   
   
5. Powder. Apply talcum powder or even makeup setting powder to the areas you just moisturized using a buffing brush. Again, this will stop the product from clinging and ensures an even application. 
   
   
   
6. Wear baggy and preferably old clothing after application. This will let the tan develop undisturbed and save you from ruining your favorite outfit.
   
    

Now that we’ve got the application process covered, let’s dive in.

Best Instant Self-Tanner: Bondi Sands Aero Aerated Self-Tanning Foam 

If you think you’ve left it too late to self-tan, think again. Bondi Sands Aero Aerated Self-Tanning Foam develops into a beautiful bronze glow in just an hour. This light and easy-to-apply formula gives a very natural (yet impressive) tan that lasts up to seven days. What’s not to love?

Best Wash-Off Self-Tanner: By Terry Tea To Tan 

Sometimes wash-off tan is just easier, especially when you only want that sun-kissed glow for a single day or event. There’s no maintenance afterwards and it’s much easier to remove. The By Terry Tea To Tan is the best wash-off tan I’ve come across because it’s actually a two-in-one product. Ordinarily, it applies matte but if you shake the water-based formula beforehand, you’ll get a more shimmery glow that can be really pretty, especially for an evening event. 

This formula also contains tea extracts and fruit essence to hydrate the skin and enhance your glow. It’s streak-free and washes off easily, so you won’t have to worry about stained clothing and bedsheets all week long. 

Best Gradual Self-Tanner: Dior Self-Tanning Liquid Sun 

If you’re new to self-tanning, I recommend starting with a gradual tan and they don’t come much better than Dior’s Self-Tanning Liquid Sun. This product is light, hydrating and as easy to use as a regular body lotion. It’s a pleasure to apply because it feels so luxurious and it’ll help you to build up a rich, radiant glow.

Even if you don’t want to use a gradual product for your base layer, I recommend using it to prolong the life of your tan. I usually go in with a gradual tanning product after showering to stay golden for longer. 

Best Invisible Self-Tanner: Tan Luxe Hydra Mousse

Invisible self-tanners can be tricky to master, but they come with undeniable benefits, too. Most self-tanners have a guide color to help you apply it evenly and ensure you don’t miss any areas. This makes you look pretty dark at first, but you wash it off after a few hours to reveal your “real” (fake) tan. The downside of the guide color is that it stains your clothes, bedsheets and sometimes even your furniture. Plus, it can make you look pretty odd for a couple of hours. 

If this is something you struggle with, then invisible self-tanner is your new best friend. However, I warn you, this one is not for beginners. It’s best to master the art of self-tanning first. Once you’re a pro, however, you may never look back. 

Tan Luxe Hydra Mousse is my favorite clear self-tanner of them all. The formula hydrates, smooths and and protects your skin with ingredients like vitamins C and E and raspberry oil. It won’t leave any stains behind, so it’s perfect for those with a busy lifestyle. You can apply the mousse, get dressed and go. Self-tanning can sometimes be a rather time-consuming affair but with this product, it only takes a few minutes – and there’s no hiding away from the world as you wait to shower the guide color off!

 

Best Self-Tanner Drops: James Read Gradual Tan Click & Glow Tan Drops

Self-tanner drops let you turn your favorite luxury body cream into a gradual tan lotion. They also allow you to create just the right shade for your skin, whereas most self-tanners simply come in light, medium and dark. James Read’s Click & Glow Tan Drops give you the ultimate control over your gradual self-tanner and are full of antioxidants to promote skin health.

Best Facial Self-Tanner: Sisley-Paris Hydrating Facial Skincare Fake Tan 

Most facial self-tanners out there are gradual, which has its benefits, but it can be inconvenient timing-wise if you’re not using a gradual tan on your body. However, Sisley-Paris have once again proved why they’re one of the best skincare brands around with their Hydrating Facial Skincare Fake Tan. The skin on your face is delicate and self-tanning products for the body can dry out your skin. This product contains mighty ingredients like wild pansy to keep your skin hydrating and it gives a beautiful golden glow that’s not too dramatic for your face. 

Best Gradual Facial Self-Tanner: James Read Gradual Tan Sleep Mask Face Tan

James Read does it again with this amazing overnight mask. Not only will this product give your face a lovely golden glow that builds over time, it also contains superstar skin ingredients like retinol, which accelerates cell turnover to give you younger, healthier skin in the long-term.

For more on beauty, check out the best luxury foundations for every skin type or these life-changing skincare hacks.