17 Best Fake Tanning Lotions 2025 – Achieve A Natural-Looking Tan With These Tried & Tested Picks

What the brand says: 'Our universal tinting water for an instant yet buildable naturally-bronzed glow all year round. No sun required.'

What we know: Inspired by Arab beauty rituals, Whind's Moroccan founders have developed a flurry of science-powered skincare and indulgent body care products intended to capture a golden hour glow. This Tinting Water is loaded with botanical alternative to DHA, Erythrulose, which react with proteins on the skin to slowly build colour, as well as caramel, which functions as an alternative to traditional dyes to impart a bronze hue. There's also hyaluronic acid, glycerin and marshmallow extract to bolster hydration and protect the skin.

Rachael Martin, beauty editor, says: 'If you're looking for a natural-looking, even and long-lasting tan that mimics the look of a post-holiday glow, look to this fool-proof solution. It uses erythrulose (a natural keto-sugar and botanical alternative to the traditional bronzing agent, DHA) which reacts with proteins on the skin to gradually build a believable bronzy radiance.'

What the brand says: 'A lightweight, fast absorbing, gradual tanning lotion, infused with Vitamin C, Niacinamide and Hyaluronic Acid to effectively brighten and hydrate skin while delivering sunkissed skin for every season. This buildable, easy to use, daily formula helps improve skin's tone, texture and radiance for glowing, sunkissed results'

What we know: Founded by tanning expert Jules Von Hep, Isle of Paradise is what you would call a one-stop shop for all things perfect tan. The brand offers everything from tanning waters, mousse, and serums, all geared towards helping you to develop the perfect, no-fuss glow. The Gradual Self-Tan Lotion is proof in the pudding. While it's one of the more simple innovations from the brand, the results it can achieve are anything but.

Rachael Martin, beauty editor, says: 'This popular launch from Isle of Paradise, the brand's gradual self-tan has the big seal of approval from TikTok influencers. Beautifully lightweight and never sticky, it's fast absorbing and infused with a myriad of skin loving goodness - think a hefty dose of Vitamin C, Niacinamide and Hyaluronic Acid. One Boots customer said, "I saw this was new in store so I tried it instead of my usual moisturiser tan and I’ve got to say this is my new favourite!!! I never leave reviews but the gorgeous tan this gives me is just too good not to share. Also its such a big bottle for the price, I love ittttt." High praise, indeed.'

What the brand says: 'Our Advanced Colour Correcting Light Self Tanning Mousse includes peach undertones to add warmth to fair skin. With transfer resistant instant colour that lasts all day, and then washes off to reveal a long- lasting natural looking glow.'

What we know: This brilliant product catered towards fairer skin tones contains moisture-boosting hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5 to deliver long-lasting hydration, which help to deliver a silky smooth finish to the skin.

Rachael Martin, beauty editor, says: 'The best way to get started with a full-body fake tan is with a colour-correcting product. You can leave this on all day to develop without it transferring to your clothes. Afterwards, wash it off to reveal your gorgeously glowy skin. Bonus points as he formula has added hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5 to nourish the skin and lock in moisture. One reviewer said, "This product is fab with the usual prep of exfoliation and moisturising. The colour lasts a week on me if I leave it overnight on application. I wake up very orange but after a shower it’s a natural golden brown. I have very fair skin and use the light version though I have also successfully used the medium too. For the cost you can’t go wrong!"'

What the brand says: 'Anti-aging self tan with zero nasties. Created using our unique Cellushape formula to hydrate and firm the skin. Fast drying formula with colour guide technology develops in 6+ hours into a natural, even, healthy-looking tan!'

What we know: Bottling up the very best tropical Balinese ingredients – from coconut oil to to ripe guava, Coco and Eve has managed to serve up a line of serious skin-and-hair-loving products that span rejuvenating shampoos, silky SPFs and skin-perfecting tanners. This one comes equipped with 100% natural DHA, the brand's antioxidant-loaded CellushapeTM to help protect and smooth skin, raw virgin coconut to hydrate and firm, as well as mango, fig and cocoa, which improve signs of aging.

Rachael Martin, beauty editor, says: 'The unique formula instantly hydrates and conditions while the colour develops in just two hours. Better yet it boasts a delicious tropical mango and guava scent. One reviewer said, "The colour of this is a lovely bronze as described, not too dark at all which is what I was hoping for. I usually use loving tan (shade medium) which is my favourite, however this is a great alternative as you get more product for a lower price. It also smells divine."'

**What the brand says: '**Looking for a body lotion that helps you get the sun-kissed look you deserve? Then bask in Dove Summer Revived Body Lotion for medium to dark results and treat yourself to that holiday hue all year round. This Dove self-tanning lotion combines our expert dermatological care with self-tanners for medium to dark results while building a gentle tan.'

What we know: We know Dove as the staple high street body and hair care brand poised to bring comfort to our 'everything shower'. And the same can be said about its tanning line. This Tanning Body Lotion is developed with the brand's Cell-Moisturisers® technology, which boasts key moisturising actives compressed from natural seed oils to leave skin full of moisture while it glows.

Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer, says: 'I have a medium, olive skin tone naturally, so have never felt a need to self tan. But something about the easy use of this product instantly lured me in. First off, it is a lotion that can be used straight from the tube onto your body, no mitts, gloves, brushes necessary, and there is no rinse-off required either. Meaning, it's totally lazy girl-approved. While it left a lovely subtle natural-looking bronzy glow to my skin, sans streaks, it also helped my skin to feel deeply nourished and smooth. It's a 100% yes from me.'

What the brand says: 'This clear and lightweight gel-to-water self tan starts to develop into a natural medium tan in just 3 hours. With no need to rinse off, this refreshing, non-sticky and fast-absorbing self tanner provides up to 72hrs hydration, for a longer-lasting and more even streak-free tan.'

What we know: This clean, vegan-friendly formula is clever and provides up to 72hrs hydration thanks to natural skincare actives such as moisturising hyaluronic acid, soothing green Mandarin water and antioxidant-rich hibiscus extract.

Rachael Martin, beauty editor, says: 'Asking what is the best fake tan for dry skin? Look no further. Packed with hyaluronic acid, this lightweight formula plumps and hydrates skin whilst delivering a natural, golden glow that's completely steak-free. Once exfoliated and moisturised, glide on the product with a mitt ensuring skin in covered. One trusted reviewer said, "Really liked this. First time trying it and the colour was nice! Natural looking: I’m really fair skinned for reference. Didn’t feel sticky: felt like it almost absorbed into the skin! I recommend."'

What the brand says: 'Our luxuriously rich self-tanning foam is formulated with naturally-derived ingredients and valuable proteins that will enhance skin elasticity and its overall appearance whilst leaving skin supple and firm.'

What we know: Vogue Williams knew what she was doing when she created this line of expert self tanners. The Self Tan Foam features skin elasticity enhancing goji berry, soothing oatmeal, and anti-inflammatory and antioxidant rich chamomile which bolster skin health and contribute to developing a serious glow.

Rachael Martin, beauty editor, says: 'It's not often we wax lyrical about celebrity brands, but we could go on and on about how brilliant this self-tan is. But, all you really need to know is that it lends skin an even, deep, believable tan that will have everyone asking, 'where have you been?' This foam tan is best used after exfoliating the morning or evening before applying. It lasts for up to a week, with a fast development time of four-six hours. Consider this the best fake tan for holiday. One 5* reviewer said, "I have been using this tan for 2 years and it is by far the best tan on the market, goes on really evenly and dries quickly. The application mitt and the brush are game changers. No streaks! Lasts well and still looks good as its fading. It looks really natural and gets lots of compliments.I never use any other brand, 5 stars love love love it!".

What the brand says: These unique Tri-phase natural self-tanning drops work as a tripple threat. Phase one provides an instant tan within three to four hours; Phase 2 boosts the skin's own melanin to provide a natural protective tan; and Phase 3 penetrates deeper for longer-lasting tan. The result? A sustained, high-quality finish that also improves skin health.

What we know: Enter a brand at the forefront of luxury nutri-cosmeceutical beauty. With a specialism in cellular skin nutrition, you can expect to find seriously impressive ingredients in this product, like micro-encapsulated DHA (sourced from wheat and sugar beet) that absorb deeper for a rich longer lasting tan as well as a cocktail of hardworking vitamins, proteins, minerals, amino acids and other bio-actives. Namely, a combination of Monk's pepper, tyrosine and arginine boost the skin’s own melanin production and UV defence system, pro-vitamin B5 for tissue repair and protection against sunburns, pea peptides to boost collagen, and MSM to reduce inflammation, to name a few. Phew!

Rachael Martin, beauty editor, says: 'When we discuss the best fake tan for face this Oskia option comes up time and time again. Simply add a couple of drops to your moisturiser, foundation, serum or oil for a healthy glow that will last up to 10 days. A glow-giving treat that always delivers. One reviewer said, 'These drops mimic the shade of my natural tan. One of the best self tanning products i came across. No smell, no streaks, just a naturally glowing tone. Not sure this would work for folks who are after a deep tan, but works beautifully to deliver a sunkissed glow.'

What the brand says: 'Hydrate, invigorate and refresh your complexion with this totally transparent, vitamin-infused self-tanning water.'

What we know: Tan-Luxe knows a thing or two about creating serious game changers. This crystal clear water-based self tanner features blend of vitamins B, C and E, plus raspberry oil and aloe vera to serve up impressive hydration benefits and a covetable glow, all without the faff and clogged pores.

Rachael Martin, beauty editor, says: 'This tanner is ideal for those who don't want to compromise crisp white sheets. Just a sweep makes light work of illuminating and nourishing thanks to the unique blend of purified water and natural tanning actives. A little goes a long way. One reviewer described it as 'perfect,' then went on to say, "Easy, light, fresh, Nice tan. Natural all The way. Have no fear.' High praise indeed."'

What the brand says: 'Self-tan for the time poor just got better with Isle of Paradise’s fastest ever developing formula. It’s time to experience self-tanning on your own terms with an Express Self-Tanning Mousse that develops in as little as 30 minutes. You really can "apply and go!" The tinted guide colour ensures users can’t go wrong with application and the results? Flawless every time. Packed with colour-correcting actives and body loving benefits; you’ll achieve a happily hydrated sun-kissed glow after just half an hour, a medium tan result after two hours or a deep bronze result in as little as three.'

What we know: Isle of Paradise has ample self tanning options but this one is its fastest working. It boasts a streak-free, stain-free formula that lends the skin hydration for 24 hours thanks to a blend of moisture locking hyaluronic acid, glycerin and vitamin C.

Rachael Martin, beauty editor, says: 'If it's been formulated by world renowned tanning expert then you know it's bound to be good. This launch from Isle of Paradise is absolutely no exception. No matter what your underlying hue, your skin will boast a natural glow in just 30 minutes. One reviewer said, "This tanning mouse is amazing if you're looking for something very natural. I've tried a lot of tanning mousses and this is one of the best as the smell isn't overpowering and it doesn't leave a huge stain on the sheets like some brands do! I used this for my birthday as it doesn't leave any streaks and you can count on it doing a great job."'

What the brand says: 'This easy-to-use, all-in-1 self-tanning pad for the face exfoliates and develops a natural, sunless, radiant glow while providing visible anti-aging benefits... mess-free, non-streaky application every time.'

What we know: These clever , quick drying towelettes are seeped in AHAs and BHAs to smooth over textured skin and create a more polished surface, while encapsulated DHA helps to develop a buildable natural-looking tan and customised glow in under an hour. There's no need to rinse, it's that easy. Plus, vitamin E and phospholipids help to keep skin plum and nourished.

Claudia Winkleman says: 'The love of my life is the Dr Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Glow Pads, £39. Anyone who has not tried them needs to immediately go and buy them – one swipe and you will faint and openly weep. And we all know I like to be orange. But trust me when I say it won’t make you orange – just a sweep will make it look like you’ve eaten outside on a sunny day. They're amazing. For my body an amazing woman called Sophia comes to my house to spray me. But if I’m doing it myself then I’ll put on Dove, Johnson’s or Utan and hope for the best. To say that I am ramshackle in my application would be a massive understatement.'

What the brand says: 'The ultimate lightweight body moisturiser with a gradual glow. This revolutionary oil/lotion hybrid has become a cult favourite, melting into skin upon application and delivering radiant, buildable colour.'

What we know: This gradual tan is, unusually, a lotion and oil hybrid. Just a small amount delivers a natural, buildable glow, plus the texture is featherweight and silky making it comfortable to wear. It is also packed with raspberry seed oil, vitamin E, aloe vera and caffeine to smooth, condition, and firm.

Rachael Martin, beauty editor, says:  'This is my favourite gradual tan of all time 'As a beauty editor I've tested a lot of tans, but this one is always the one I revert back to. Just one application is enough to leave me with a subtle my-skin-but-better radiance. A second layer? Well then it's an all out golden tan. Take the time to blend it in and it's fool-proof. Trust me.'

What the brand says: 'Add the Self-Tan Sun Drops to your Caudalie face cream or your serum in the palm of your hand for a gradual, luminous, easy-to-build tan all year round. Enriched with organic grape water and self-tanning active ingredients of natural origin, its non-dehydrating formula moisturises the skin and reveals a naturally sun-kissed complexion, without UV exposure.'

What we know:  Because it’s Caudalie, you know you’re not just getting a tan, you’re getting skincare benefits too. The formula is infused with grape water, a signature Caudalie ingredient known for its hydrating and soothing properties, ensuring your skin stays plump and radiant while your tan develops.

Marina Avraam, deputy commercial content editor for Grazia, says: 'If the thought of fake tan conjures up streaky limbs, orange hands, and that tell-tale biscuit smell, don’t worry - these drops are nothing like that. Instead of an all-over commitment, you just mix a few drops into your daily moisturiser or serum, et voilà - your glow develops subtly, no stress required. It’s basically a customisable tan that you control. Want a deeper bronze? Add more drops. Just looking for a hint of warmth? One or two will do. No awkward waiting around in loose clothing - just a natural, fresh-from-a-weekend-away glow.'

What the brand says: 'The Sunlit Skin Self Tan Express is a glow-giving hero for lit-from-within luminosity and a sunkissed bronze.'

What we know: Described by the brand as a 'toasting tint' just a small amount of this gel formula reveals a streak-free golden glow in just three hours. And bonus points for the infusion of aloe vera, coconut oil, glycerine and antioxidant-rich vitamin E which help to hydrate, soothe and smooth for a more radiant complexion in the long run.

Rachael Martin, beauty editor, says: ‘My sensitive, reactive face doesn't like fake tan. This one, however, may have just converted me. Not only is it sheer and buildable, but the joy comes with the precision dropper. I can pin point exactly where I want to be bronzed. Although the formula can be applied all over the skin, for me, concentrating on places where the sun would naturally hit makes for a beautiful, believable glow that doesn't look too 'done.' I'd say it provides a medium, natural radiance within three hours. A my skin-but-better bronze that mimics a weekend spent in Ibiza (the wellness side of the Island, to confirm). It isn't sticky and feels skin-like when applied. And crucially, it doesn't make me breakout.'

What the brand says: 'The Self Tanning Hydrating Body skincare offers a natural and uniform tan for an immediately moisturised and radiant golden skin.'

What we know: Struggle with dry skin? The rich macadamia oil in this lotion helps to nourish and soothe any signs of dryness and irritation.  As well as the deluxe tanning formula, the scent is a total treat. It's fresh and floral - and totally void of any biscuit smell.

Jade Moscrop, Grazia’s commercial content editor, says: 'This luxurious self-tan cream may be expensive but lends limbs a gorgeous golden glow while deeply moisturising skin. The active ingredients work to draw and retain moisture in the skin as it works to leave a golden tan without the need to jump on a flight. One reviewer went as far as to say that this tan from Sisley is the 'best self-tan' they have ever used. Many agree that this self tan glides onto the skin smoothly and plenty say they love the fresh scent.'

What the brand says: 'The first-of-its-kind to blend 87% Rosewater with DHA, Sunblush Hydrating Tan Mist is a multi-tasking must-have gradual tanner, containing high-performance active ingredients that work on a cellular level to hydrate, plump and tone the skin, whilst adding an effortless warmth and glow. Designed to fit seamlessly into your routine, this lightweight tanning mist can be used as the first or final step in your skincare and makeup routines, enhancing the skin's natural glow with each spritz. Perfect for achieving a buildable tan that's both subtle and radiant.'

What we know: Founder of the brand James Read has been at the helm of of the sunless tanning category for over 20 years. Having been the trusted hands behind the A-list glows, he developed a range of products to revolutionise the market with game-changers that combine skincare and sunless-tanning. This Mist boasts 87% natural rose water to plump, fermented rose petals and aloe vera to soothe and firm, 3D hyaluronic acid for long-lasting hydration, and all important plant-based DHA, which adjusts to each skin tone to lend warmth.

Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer, says: 'As someone who has never used self tanners before, this is an easy way in. It is suitable for all skin types and tones, and slots easily into your existing beauty routine. So much so, it can be used to set skincare as well as make-up, to enhance the steps you already have in place – something that is certainly made possible by its impressive ingredient-led skincare formula.'

What the brand says: 'Made with naturally-derived DHA, ceramides and hyaluronic acid, these fully customisable tanning drops work with your skin tone to deliver a buildable, universal sunkissed glow that looks even better than the real thing. No streaks, no fuss, no irritation.'

What we know: Pai is committed to creating clean, natural and ethical beauty products that are specifically created for sensitive skin types. That's why you'll find naturally-derived DHA (Dihydroxyacetone) in this formula (as synthetic DHA has been known to trigger breakouts and irritation, according to the brand), as well as hyaluronic acid and ceramides to hydrate and support the skin barrier while building a natural, healthy glow.

Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer, says: 'Those with acne-prone, reactive skin types like mine can rest assured when using this gem from Pai. As a 100% natural, certified organic self tan, it hydrates, supports barriers and provides a seriously impressive natural-looking glow.'