Your Ultimate Guide To Fake Tanning

Want glowy skin all year round? Start here.

Just because the weather is getting cooler by the day doesn’t mean your body can’t still look glowing, like it’s been sunkissed IRL. The key to looking golden all year round (and the only safe way to do so) is with a fake tan. But with so many textures out there, where should you start?! We’ve got you covered (ha) in this guide to all things fake tan. You’re welcome.

Get to know: gradual tanning lotion

A gradual tanning lotion is the easiest way to up the glow factor on your body. We often reach for this type of fake tan as its consistency is similar to a normal body cream, making it really easy to spread all over and blend into your skin. Massage it all over your body in small circular motions; you can do so every day for a deeper tan, or just incorporate it into your beauty regimen two to three times a week to top up your colour.

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Try: Three Warriors

Gradual Tan

Get to know: mousse

For a deeper colour, you can’t go past a layer or two of fake tan mousse. Mousse textures might take some getting used to as they dry a little quicker than other formulas, so you have to work quicker and in smaller areas at a time. Once you’re ready, start with a small dollop in your fake tan mitt or plastic gloves, and massage it onto your skin in small circular motions. You’ll want to complete each part of your limb before moving onto others, such as the front of your shin, your calf, your knees, and so on. Every brand is different in the type of colour they offer and the time it takes for the colour to develop, so it may take some shopping around before you find the perfect product.

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Try: Bondi Sands

Self Tanning Foam

Image via Instagram @karinaenever

Get to know: cream

If you’re looking for something quick and easy with instantaneous results, a fake tan cream is what you should be shopping for. They’re usually packed with darkening pigments already to deepen the colour of your skin (within reason, of course), along with hydrating qualities to moisturise your skin. We highly recommend going with an illuminating formula if you want to elongate the appearance of your legs or make your collarbones pop.

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Try: Loving Tan

Bronze Shimmer Luminous Cream Dark

Get to know: drops

Want to really customise the level of tan you’re going for? Then fake tan drops are the way to go. They're exactly as the name suggests: literal drops of fake tan formula that can be added to your existing beauty products (such as your face serum or body cream), and you can add as many drops as you like to achieve the look you desire.