10 Of The Best Fake Tans In Australia

Australia is known for being a sunny country (unless you live in Melbourne, in which case it’s either extreme heat or icy cold). So when it comes to golden, sunkissed skin, we’re pretty much an authority. But if you don’t want to fall victim to the perilous effects of the sun, don’t worry; we’ve also got the best fake tans here in Australia for an easy, faux glow.

Whether you’re after a deep bronze look or more of a natural vibe, there’s a multitude of fake tan brands out there to cater to your taste. Some may prefer gradual tans for an easy transition from winter to summer, but if you’re looking for instant golden goddess results, a fast-developing coat of colour will do the job.

If you don’t like sleeping in fake tan overnight, these days most formulas only require an hour to three at most to do their thing. Plus, the smell has gotten a lot better.

So whether you’ve got money to spend or if you’re just after some cheap thrills, here’s our edit of the best fake tan in Australia.

The best fake tans in Australia

#1 Bondi Sands Self Tanning Foam – Dark

We say: With a 4.8/5 star rating and multiple awards under its belt, the black Bondi Sands bottle is undeniably one of the best fake tans in Australia. According to reviews, the best part of its formula is that it fades evenly and naturally. No flaking or unsightly patches here.

You say: “I bought this purely due to the AMAZING reviews of it, and I wasn’t disappointed. It gave me a streak-free natural tan on my very pale skin without looking abnormal. I got so many compliments when I went out for the first time with this tan because it didn’t look orange or patchy.” – Helenexxx

$21.99 for 200ml at Priceline

Read more Bondi Sands Self-Tanning Foam – Dark reviews

#2 St. Tropez Self Tan Classic Bronzing Mousse

We say: St. Tropez has always been seen as the gold standard of tan – and for good reason. Formulated with a unique aromaguard fragrance technology, this quick-drying formula reduces odour by 70 per cent, leaving a light and subtle fragrance. AKA it’s ideal for those who can’t stand the smell of fake tan. Plus, it’s infused with aloe vera, for a glowing tan and lightly moisturised skin.

You say: “It has a very natural colour. I have very fair skin and when I tell people I am wearing fake tan they don’t believe me. It does not have a smell.” – jilabee

$29.99 for 240ml at Priceline

Read more St. Tropez Self Tan Classic Bronzing Mousse reviews

#3 Loving Tan Deluxe Bronzing Mousse – Ultra Dark

We say: Ask any seasoned tanner who takes the job very seriously what the best fake tan in Australia is and their answer will be: Loving Tan. If you don’t mind splurging, it’s an excellent option – especially if you’re partial to a deep bronze tan. Loving Tan’s Deluxe Bronzing Mousse – Ultra Dark is the one you want – it’s super fast-drying and it provides a lovely golden colour that’s dark but still natural.

$39.95 at Adore Beauty

#4 Tan-Luxe Hydra-Mousse Self Tanner

We say: They don’t call it ‘Tan-Luxe’ for nothing. And while it may be the priciest tan in our edit, if you’re someone with a busy lifestyle who needs a clear formula instead of a colour-guided one, it’s the best there is. Simply go about your day while the skin care-infused formula gets to work. No stains, no worries.

$57 for 200ml at Sephora

#5 SugarBaby Ready-Set-Glow

We say: If you’re prone to skin sensitivity, this lightweight mousse could be the one for you. Made to soothe and hydrate the skin while it develops, the coconut water-infused formula avoids common irritants and synthetic fragrances. It’s dermatologically tested and is made in Australia.

$30 for 200ml at sugarbabybeauty.com.au

Have you tried this product? Add your SugarBaby Ready-Set-Glow review here.

#6 LYCON LYCO-BRONZE Self-Tanning Foam

We say: To replicate a summer glow year-round, this vegan and cruelty-free formula is built with premium natural pigments that nourish your skin while it tans. It takes just one hour to develop but you can leave it on for three in order to develop a deeper colour.

You say: “So happy that I think this foam will now always be my go-to tanning product” – louisechild

$34.95 at lyconretail.com

Read more LYCON LYCO-BRONZE Self-Tanning Foam reviews.

#7 ELEFFECT The Self Tanning Mousse

We say: On the pricier side, but worth every penny. Influencer Elle Ferguson’s first foray into the beauty world is really, really good – it smells like roses (great for those who can’t cope with the traditional tan smell!). Plus, it’s an amazing colour for all skin tones. It’s so popular, in fact, that it’s currently out of stock both at MECCA and on the brand’s website. But it’s definitely one to keep an eye out for if you’re a true fake tan lover.

Eleffect, $44.95 at eleffect.com

#8 Ella Baché Great Tan Without Sun

We say: For easy fake tan application, look no further than this lotion-like tanner. The unique tinted formula provides an instant bronze as soon as it’s applied, also working as an application guide for an even result. Skin-loving ingredients like cocoa butter and green tea also help keep the skin hydrated and glowing.

You say: “I’ve used many tans in my day, but this Ella Baché self tan has to be the best one I’ve used so far. It has a tint to it so you can see where you are applying. I do tend to have dry skin so this product is very moisturising… It goes on streak free and doesn’t have a strong smell.” – Angela Giucastro

$42 at Adore Beauty

Want to know more? Read more Ella Baché Great Tan Without Sun reviews...

#9 Sontse. Golden Hour Self-Tan Mousse

We say: Infused with mandarin peel and coconut oil, this rose-scented mousse makes tanning a luxury. The silky mousse formula develops in one hour while, for deeper results, users can leave it on for up to four hours.

$44.95 at Sontse.

Have you tried this product? Leave a Sontse. Golden Hour Self-Tan Mousse review…

#10 pureTAN Instant Tanning Foam Dark

We say: pureTan’s plant-based formula is a go-to for natural tan lovers. Enriched with aloe vera, hyaluronic acid, vitamin C and coconut oil, the skin is left bronzed and healthy-looking after application.

$29.95 at pureTAN

Have you tried this product? Leave a pureTAN Instant Tanning Foam Dark review…

Main image credit: @eleeffect

What’s your favourite fake tan?