With summer on the way, we tested three self-tanning products from all price points
FINALLY it seems summer is here, which means it’s time to tan – with fake bake.
But waiting hours for it to develop is no fun, so I test three express tans that promise results in as little as 30 minutes.
Budget
Bondi Sands Self Tanning Foam One Hour Express, 200ml, was £14.99, now £9.99, boots.com: A long-time fan of the brand, I had high hopes for this foam.
The guide colour is great for avoiding streaks and it dries fast, but it rubs off onto clothes and towels, so cover up while it develops if you don’t want to stain any surfaces.
I didn’t notice much of a difference after an hour, so I left it on for three hours expecting a dark tan.
Most of the colour washed away in the shower.
But, the next morning the colour had developed into a nice, natural tan overnight.
So apply it the day before a big event for the best result.
Mid-range
Isle of Paradise Express Self-Tanning Mousse, 200ml, £21.95, theisleofparadise.com: I can barely do my hair in 30 minutes, so the idea you can get the colour of a full day in the sun in that time, with no skin damage, is mind-blowing to me.
Admittedly, it took 30 minutes to apply two coats, so I left it on for an hour.
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There was a definite colour difference, but I’d say it’s sun-kissed rather than fully tanned, so next time I’ll leave it on for at least double that time for a deeper tan.
My favourite thing is the smell. It lacks that “biscuit” odour fake tans often have, so you can wear it in the day while it develops without worrying – which isn’t the case for the others.
Luxury
St Tropez Self Tan Express Bronzing Gel, 200ml, £34, lookfantastic.com: The colour of this gel formula is initially far darker than the foams so it could stain light surfaces if applied near them.
But the formula was super-easy to apply with a mit and the gel was easier to work with than the foams, as you have more time to blend it in.
That being said, it also takes more time to sink in due to the hydrating ingredients, so if you don’t like the sticky feeling, it’s one to skip.
The colour developed much quicker than the foam making a real difference after just an hour.
The tan still looked even four days later. I’ll definitely use this again.
Pick of the week
WHILE the warm weather is lifting our spirits, judging by the waft on the bus last week, it’s also making us sweat . . . a lot.
READ MORE SUN STORIES
The new Dove Advanced Care deodorants have launched just in time, delivering 72 hours of sweat and odour protection in a formula that’s kinder to skin than ever before.
There are nine scent options so you’re sure to find one you like.