Finding the best Fake Tan for 2024

Are you searching for the best fake tan for pale skin or a gradual tan? With so many options, finding the perfect product can be overwhelming. Whether you’re new to tanning or a seasoned pro, we’ve got you covered. This guide walks you through essential factors for choosing a fake tan, helping you achieve a flawless, natural-looking glow.

First, understand different formula types to find what suits you best. Next, choose products compatible with sensitive skin. Our expert insights will help you make informed decisions. We also highlight the best fake tans for 2024, from budget-friendly gradual tanners to luxurious deep bronzers. Get ready to discover top tanning solutions and achieve the sun-kissed skin you’ve always dreamed of!

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Fake Tan

Formula Type

The type of formula you choose is crucial. Mousses, lotions, sprays, and oils each have unique benefits. Mousses and sprays often provide quick-drying results, while lotions and oils can offer more hydration.

Skin Compatibility

If you have sensitive skin, look for products with natural ingredients and without harsh chemicals. Always check if the product is hypoallergenic and dermatologically tested.

Application Method

The ease of application is important for achieving an even tan. Products with a tint can help you see where you’ve applied the product, reducing the risk of streaks.

Durability

Consider how long the tan lasts and if it fades evenly. Some tans can last up to a week, while others might need reapplication every few days.

Scent

A pleasant scent can make the tanning process more enjoyable. Many modern tans have fragrances that mask the traditional tanning odour.

Best Budget Gradual Tanner: Garnier Summer Body Hydrating Gradual Tan Moisturiser Dark

Features & Description

Garnier Summer Body Hydrating Gradual Tan Moisturiser Dark is an affordable option that provides a natural-looking tan while keeping your skin hydrated. This moisturiser gradually builds up a tan, making it ideal for beginners or those with pale skin.

Pros & Cons of Garnier Summer Body Gradual Tan

Pros:

1. Budget-friendly: Garnier Summer Body Gradual Tan is highly affordable, often available for less than £6, making it a cost-effective option for those seeking a gradual tan​.
2. Hydrates skin: This product not only provides a gradual tan but also acts as a moisturiser, leaving the skin feeling smooth and hydrated. Users have noted its moisturising properties, which enhance the overall skin texture​​.
3. Builds a natural tan gradually: The formula is designed to develop a subtle, natural-looking tan over several applications, which can be beneficial for those looking to avoid a sudden, stark change in skin tone. It typically takes two to three applications to notice a significant difference​.
4. Pleasant fragrance: Unlike many tanning products that have a strong, often unpleasant odour, Garnier Summer Body is noted for its fruity apricot scent, which is generally well-received by users​.
5. Non-streaky application: The product’s formula is designed to minimise streaks, providing an even tan when applied correctly. Its slightly runnier consistency makes it easier to apply evenly over the skin​.

Cons:

1. Requires regular application for best results: To maintain a consistent tan, users need to apply the product daily or every other day. This can be a drawback for those looking for a low-maintenance solution.
2. May take a few days to see noticeable colour: The gradual nature of the tan means it can take several days of consecutive use before a noticeable colour change is seen. This may not be ideal for users seeking immediate results​.
3. Potential for a strong scent: While many users appreciate the fruity smell, it can be strong, and some may find it overwhelming with daily use​.
4. Drying time: The product can take a while to dry completely, which might be inconvenient for those who need to get dressed quickly after application.

Overall, Garnier Summer Body Gradual Tan is praised for its affordability, moisturising benefits, and the natural-looking tan it provides. However, it requires consistent application and patience to achieve and maintain the desired results.

Best for a Deep Tan: Sienna X Express Tan

Features & Description

Sienna X Express Tan is perfect for those seeking a deep, rich colour. This express mousse develops quickly, allowing you to achieve a dark tan in just a few hours.

Pros & Cons of Sienna X Express Q10 Self Tan Mousse

Pros:

1. Quick development time: The Sienna X Express Q10 Self Tan Mousse is designed to develop rapidly. You can achieve a light tan in just one hour, a medium-dark tan in three hours, and a rich, deep tan in four hours. This flexibility allows you to control the depth of your tan based on how long you leave the product on your skin.
2. Long-lasting results: The tan provided by this mousse is not only quick to develop but also long-lasting, with many users noting that it maintains its colour well over several days before needing a reapplication.
3. Rich, deep colour: The product is praised for providing a deep, natural-looking tan that can be intensified by leaving it on for longer. This makes it suitable for those seeking a more pronounced tan​​.
4. Skin-nourishing ingredients: Enriched with Q10, Aloe Vera, Vitamin E, Pomegranate, and Blackcurrant, the mousse not only tans but also nourishes the skin, helping to prevent dryness and maintain skin firmness.
5. Ease of application: The mousse’s light and foamy texture makes it easy to apply evenly with a tanning mitt, reducing the risk of streaks and ensuring a smooth finish​.

Cons:

1. Can be intense for very pale skin: The deep colour that this product can achieve might be too intense for those with very pale skin, potentially leading to an unnatural look if not applied carefully​.
2. Slight tanning odour: Despite its many benefits, the product does have a slight tanning odour, which, while not overpowering, can be noticeable to some users​.
3. Fast drying time: While the fast-drying formula is convenient, it requires quick and precise application to avoid patches or uneven areas, which might be challenging for first-time users​.

Overall, the Sienna X Express Q10 Self Tan Mousse is highly rated for its quick and customisable tanning process, nourishing ingredients, and long-lasting, rich colour. However, those with very pale skin or who are sensitive to tanning odours might need to consider these factors when choosing this product.

Best for Sensitive Skin: Lucy Bee Natural Looking Fake Tan – Medium Self Tan Mousse 200ml

Features & Description

Lucy Bee Natural Looking Fake Tan is ideal for sensitive skin. This self-tan mousse is formulated with natural ingredients and is free from harsh chemicals, making it gentle on the skin.

Pros & Cons of Lucy Bee Naturally Glowing Self-Tan

Pros:

• Suitable for Sensitive Skin: The Lucy Bee Self-Tan Mousse is formulated to be gentle on sensitive skin, making it a great option for those with skin sensitivities or allergies. The inclusion of coconut water helps to hydrate and nourish the skin, adding to its suitability for sensitive users.
• Natural Ingredients: This self-tanning mousse prides itself on using natural DHA, which works with your skin tone to develop a natural-looking tan. It’s free from palm oil and other harsh chemicals, aligning with a more natural and ethical approach to skincare​.
• Hydrating Formula: The mousse includes coconut water and other hydrating ingredients, ensuring that the skin stays moisturised throughout the tanning process. This helps prevent the dryness that can sometimes accompany the use of self-tanners​.

Cons:

• Mid-Range Price Point: While not the most expensive on the market, the Lucy Bee Self-Tan Mousse does sit at a mid-range price point, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers​.
• Medium Shade May Not Be Dark Enough for Some: The product develops a medium tan, which might not be dark enough for users seeking a deeper, more intense tan. However, additional layers can be applied to achieve a darker shade.

Overall, the Lucy Bee Self-Tan Mousse offers a balance of natural ingredients and skin-friendly formulation, making it a popular choice for those looking for a natural and ethical tanning solution.

Best Smelling Fake Tan: Coco & Eve Sunny Honey Bali Bronzing Foam. Natural Sunless Self Tanner Mousse

Features and Description

Coco & Eve Sunny Honey Bali Bronzing Foam is known for its delightful tropical scent. This self-tanner mousse delivers a streak-free, natural tan and is infused with ingredients like coconut and mandarin oils.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Pleasant tropical scent: The Coco & Eve Sunny Honey Bali Bronzing Foam has a delightful mango and guava scent that is fruity, sweet, and girly, making the application process enjoyable.
• Natural, streak-free finish: The formula includes a dark guide that helps ensure an even application, leading to a streak-free finish. The mousse texture is easy to blend, providing a natural-looking tan.
• Hydrating and nourishing ingredients: The bronzing foam is enriched with ingredients that hydrate and nourish the skin, helping to blur pigmentation and perfect the skin. It also contains the unique Cellushape™ formula to firm the skin and fight cellulite​.

Cons:

• Higher price point: At around £33 per 200ml bottle, this product is on the pricier side compared to other self-tanners.
• Takes a few hours to develop: While the product claims to develop within two hours, many users find that leaving it on overnight provides a deeper and more satisfactory tan. The mousse also takes about 45 minutes to an hour to dry, which can be inconvenient​.

Conclusion

Choosing the best fake tan depends on your skin type, budget, and desired tan. This guide helps you find the perfect product for a flawless, natural-looking glow. Here are key points to consider:

Best Fake Tan for Pale Skin

If you have pale skin, it’s essential to choose a product that builds gradually and looks natural. The Garnier Summer Body Hydrating Gradual Tan Moisturiser Dark is a budget-friendly option. It hydrates your skin while gradually developing a natural-looking tan. This product is perfect for beginners or those seeking a subtle, buildable tan. The formula not only provides a gradual tan but also acts as a moisturiser, leaving the skin feeling smooth and hydrated. It has a pleasant fruity apricot scent, making the application process enjoyable. However, it requires regular application to maintain the tan and might take a few days of consistent use to see noticeable colour changes. Additionally, it can take a while to dry completely, which might be inconvenient for some users.

Best for a Deep Tan

For those seeking a deep, rich tan, Sienna X Express Tan is ideal. This mousse allows you to control the depth of your tan based on the application time. The tan develops quickly, letting you achieve a light tan in just one hour, a medium-dark tan in three hours, and a rich, deep tan in four hours. Enriched with Q10, Aloe Vera, Vitamin E, Pomegranate, and Blackcurrant, it nourishes the skin, preventing dryness and maintaining skin firmness. However, the deep colour might be too intense for very pale skin. The product has a slight tanning odour. The fast-drying formula requires quick and precise application to avoid patches or uneven areas, which might be challenging for first-time users.

Best for Sensitive Skin

If you have sensitive skin, Lucy Bee Natural Looking Fake Tan is formulated with natural ingredients, ensuring a gentle application without harsh chemicals. Its hydrating formula and suitability for sensitive skin make it an excellent choice. The mousse includes coconut water and other hydrating ingredients, ensuring that the skin stays moisturised throughout the tanning process. However, it sits at a mid-range price point, and the medium shade might not be dark enough for users seeking a deeper tan.

Best Smelling Fake Tan

Coco & Eve Sunny Honey Bali Bronzing Foam stands out for its delightful tropical scent and hydrating ingredients. This self-tanner mousse delivers a streak-free, natural tan and is infused with ingredients like coconut and mandarin oils. The formula includes a dark guide that helps ensure an even application, leading to a streak-free finish. It also contains the unique Cellushape™ formula to firm the skin and fight cellulite. Despite its higher price point, the bronzing foam provides a luxurious tanning experience. However, it takes a few hours to develop. Many users find that leaving it on overnight provides a deeper and more satisfactory tan. The mousse also takes about 45 minutes to an hour to dry, which can be inconvenient.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Fake Tan

When selecting the best fake tan, consider the type of formula, skin compatibility, application method, durability, and scent. Mousses and sprays often dry quickly, while lotions and oils provide more hydration. Look for products with natural ingredients and free from harsh chemicals, especially if you have sensitive skin. Choose products with a tint to see where you’ve applied the product, reducing the risk of streaks. Consider how long the tan lasts and if it fades evenly. Choose a product with a pleasant fragrance to enhance the tanning experience.

Achieve Your Best Tan

By considering these factors and exploring the best fake tans for 2024, you can achieve the sun-kissed skin you’ve always dreamed of. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly gradual tanner or a luxurious deep bronzer, this guide has you covered. Enjoy a flawless, natural-looking tan with these expert-recommended products and step into 2024 with confidence and a radiant glow.