There’s nothing like a luxurious self-tanning lotion to lift your spirits in the cooler months.
RELATED: Fake tanners for fair and pale skin
Not only do gradual tanners give your skin a glorious faux-glow (take THAT, winter), but many of them also include moisturising ingredients to ensure your skin stays soft and hydrated, in spite of the cold.
Here are 10 of the best self-tanners, including just why they’re well worth splurging on…
Bondi Sands Everyday Gradual Tanning Milk
A must-try sunless tanner from Bondi Sands, Bondi Sands Everyday Gradual Tanning Milk has a dual-action formula that provides a deep, long-lasting natural tan while simultaneously moisturising the skin. Enriched with a combination of antioxidants, aloe vera and vitamin E, the hydration hit from this lotion will wow you as much as the glow-factor.
Bronze by La Mav® Gradual Tanning Moisturiser – Medium
Suitable for medium complexions (or those desiring a darker tan), Bronze by La Mav® Gradual Tanning Moisturiser – Medium is infused with natural DHA that delivers a deep, rich bronze tan with no orange tones. But that’s not all – the sensitive skin friendly tanning formula also boasts argan, macadamia and camelia oils, to soften and hydrate your skin as part of the process.
LYCON Sun Faker
Those who are paranoid about tanning streaks will love LYCON Sun Faker. The sweetly-scented formula features advanced tanning agents to ensure an even, long-lasting and natural-looking tan. Plus, it also contains moisturising mango butter and macadamia nut oil.
Dr. LeWinn’s Sunless Self-Tanning Lotion
Keen to avoid the unpleasant odour often associated with self-tanning lotion? Dr. LeWinn’s Sunless Self-Tanning Lotion is specially formulated with a mild, natural herbal fragrance (read: no fake tan smell). Designed to develop a natural looking, non-streaky golden tan, the formula also contains vitamin E, vitamin B and pure aloe vera to condition the skin.
Ella Baché Great Tan Without Sun
Don’t have time to wait around for results? Ella Baché Great Tan Without Sun has a unique tinted formula which gives you an instant tan as soon as it’s applied. But that’s not the only benefit – the tint also helps to guide your application for a more even tan all over, and keeps your skin soft and supple with moisturising cocoa butter.
Arbonne Liquid Sunshine Tinted Self-Tanner
Lightweight, non-oily and quick-drying, Arbonne Liquid Sunshine Tinted Self-Tanner is a creamy lotion that rubs in with no sticky residue, streaking or colour transfer. The formula develops into an even, natural-looking tan within two hours, but it can be built to a deeper tone with continued application.
Natio Sun-Kissed Glow Gradual Tan Lotion
A two-in-one cream that is infused with vitamin E, aloe vera and a hint of tanning agent, Natio Sun-Kissed Glow Gradual Tan Lotion gradually builds to a light golden tan while keeping skin moisturised all day long. Ideal for the face and body, it’s a must for beauties who prefer a subtle glow to full-blown bronzing.
The Bronzer Self Tan
Enriched with vitamins A and E, shea butter, coconut oil and green tea extract, The Bronzer Self Tan has a creamy texture that makes it a dream to apply. It’s golden brown in colour to help with an even application and the colour will last for up to a week – but with a glow this good, you’ll be topping it up in no time!
Dove Summer Glow Gradual Self Tan Body Lotion
An oldie but a goodie, Dove Summer Glow Gradual Self Tan Body Lotion is a must for low maintenance beauty lovers. Infused with moisturising ingredients to nourish your skin, the gentle formula builds up a natural-looking tan with each application. So natural, in fact, that it will have your acquaintances noticing a glow about you, without ever suspecting a faux formula is at play.
Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Natural Bronze Body Lotion
Another favourite body-lotion-come-self-tan, Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Natural Bronze Body Lotion combines Palmer’s signature ingredients of cocoa butter and vitamin E for #nextlevel moisturisation. Packaged in a convenient pump pack to enable easy application, it leaves skin soft, smooth and with a subtle glow with daily use. The cocoa scent is the cherry on the cake.
So many brands to choose from.
No one will see enough of my skin to bother tanning in the winter, it's not really pale either.