If you're after a natural, believable bronze, look no further than our round-up of the best gradual tanners.
Far more forgiving than many one-off fake tans, gradual tanners slowly build up colour each time you use it. This way you can start off with less and gradually apply more to build up intensity without a streak in sight. The result? A sun-kissed golden glow. Fake tan, in comparison, creates instant results that are often more noticeable than a gradual tan.
Now that the weather is hotting up, and skin is now on show we wouldn't blame you for wanting to get bronzed, especially if you have naturally very pale skin. But reaching for a bottle of the fake stuff is always key.
Jules Von Hep, tanning expert and founder of Isle of Paradise says, 'Having a tan is like having an injection of confidence. Limbs look leaner and a sun-kissed glow makes everyone look healthier. Tanning can be daunting for novices, but there is no need to be reluctant with a gradual tan.'
FAQs
How Long Does Gradual Tan Take To Develop?
According to tanning pro and founder of her eponymous range, Amanda Harrington, a gradual tanner will take two to three days to develop for a sun-kissed finish. She explains, 'The beauty of gradual tan is its ability to be topped up every few days to keep up a consistent colour.'
How Should You Apply Gradual Tanners?
'Always exfoliate and moisturise before tanning, but not right before – give your moisturiser time to sink into the skin before applying your tan, otherwise, it will just sit on the surface.'
'Apply a heavy-duty moisturiser or a little Vaseline on areas like the inside of your arms, elbows, knees and ankles that are susceptible to a build-up of colour and are usually the problem spots for at-home tanning.'
And finally, don’t forget to use a mitt to apply your gradual tanner or wash your hands well after application – nothing says ‘This colour’s from a bottle!’ like tell-tale orange palms…
Does Gradual Tan Wash Off?
There’s no need to worry about your golden glow disappearing after a shower or dip in the pool, as long as you’ve left your gradual tanner on at least 4-8 hours before. We recommend applying after a shower so the product has a good amount of time to sink in and work its magic before you wash again. If you’re on holiday and in and out of the pool or sea it is probably best to apply in the evening or before bedtime. To keep up a solid tan you can use your gradual tanning moisturiser on a daily basis.
Can You Use Gradual Tanners On Your Face?
Gradual tanner can be used all over including your face, however, you might want to consider using a gradual tanner designed specifically for the face. These tend to come with added skincare benefits tailored specifically for the skin on our face like hyaluronic acid and vitamins.
Can You Tan Through Gradual Tan?
Yes, you can. Gradual tanners have no SPF protection (unless otherwise specified) which means your skin is fully exposed to the sun. It is, therefore, crucial to wear a full spectrum SPF suncream on top of the gradual tanner if you're planning on going outside.
Want to discover the best gradual tan for your skin? Scroll to see our edit of our favourite fake tans below.
SHOP: Best Gradual Tan 2023
1 of 9Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula Natural Bronze
Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Natural Bronze creates a soft glow for all year long.
Why we love it: Palmer's formula gradually builds a subtle tan within a few days, while nourishing your skin, it is perfect for all year round. And it smells like chocolate!
Site review:'I bought this a couple of months ago and I'm so glad I did! Tans always look patchy on my dry skin so I thought I'd give this ago and it was amazing. It applies like a normal moisturiser when left over night it gives you a healthy glow after 3 nights a good tan highly recommended.'
2 of 9Dove DermaSpa Summer Revived Self Tan Mousse
This lightweight tanning mousse hydrates and moisturises while it adds a gradual glow. It also blends incredibly easily and gives a gorgeous glow that will be mistaken for a natural tan.
Why we love it: The product has a non-greasy formula meaning that it won't lay on your skin heavily after application. Its moisturising properties soak into the skin for up to 48 hours after application.
Site review: 'I only brought this today and already I can see the difference, it's true what it says on the description no streaks, grease or stains on anything. Absolutely love this product already.'
3 of 9Isle of Paradise Happy Tan Everyday Gradual Glow Lotion
If this is your first foray into the faux tan territory, give this easy-to-use, skin-savvy formula a go.
Why we love it: This tanner is formulated by world-leading tanning expert Jules Von Hep, meaning that this is a product you can really trust to give you the results you desire. Packed with chai seeds, avocado and coconut oils, your skin will feel nourished while developing into a natural-looking tan.
Site review: 'I have to say that this is a really nice gradual tan and after only one application I was glowing. I was complimented on it and would recommend it if you fancy a change from a fake tan.'
4 of 9Dior Bronze Self Tanning Jelly Gradual Glow
A luxurious gradual tan that deeply moisturises skin and can be built up for a more intense finish.
Why we love it: It creates a streak-free, luminous and golden tan that lasts for days. The jelly formula is extremely easy to blend in to create an even layer and the sweet almond oil moisture skin and smells amazing.
Site review: 'Purchased yesterday and delivered today. Excellent product and I have used it for some time. First class service highly recommend.'
5 of 9Bondi Sands Pure Gradual Tanning Lotion
This skincare-tanning hybrid contains ingredients to boast about, including hyaluronic acid as well as vitamins C and E.
Why we love it: Bondi Sands' Pure range is fragrance-free, meaning there is no dreadful biscuit smell and is made with 100 per cent recyclable packaging meaning a perfect tan doesn't have to cost the earth.
Our review: 'Bondi Sands knows what it's about when it comes to tanning and this tanning lotion is no exception. It doesn't smell of anything, meaning that it doesn't leave that awful fake tan smell and after using it, the skin feels so soft and nourished as well as bronzed.'
6 of 9Vita Liberata Fabulous Self Tanning Gradual Lotion
You can skip moisturiser altogether when your gradual tanner has this many skincare benefits.
Why we love it: Featuring an innovative moisture-locking system, the lotion keeps skin hydrated for up to 72 hours while delivering a radiant tan.
Site review: 'I am fair-skinned but tan over time and have always used a gradual tanner to begin the summer. This product is the best I have used in terms of colour, fragrance and longevity. I use a tanning mitt, which is important to the overall outcome on my skin, but this is forgiving and blends very smoothly even when applied in a rush. '
7 of 9Sisley Self Tanning Hydrating Body Skin Care
For a real skin treat, try this rich self-tan cream that smells sensational, sinks in speedily and develops into a golden (not orange) even tan.
Why we love it: This tan by Sisley is perfect for those of us who want a tanner with both essential oils and active ingredients to provide rapid and long-lasting hydration and improved moisturisation. Comes with macadamia oil.
Site review: 'I loved everything about this product. This is the best self tan I have ever had. Moisturises and goes on smoothly.'
8 of 9This Works Perfect Legs Gradual Tan
For a subtle bronzing boost, give This Works Perfect Legs Gradual Tan a whirl. It can be used all over the body and applied daily (the brand recommends five times a week) to build it up.
Why we love it: Formulated with vitamin C and E, this gradual tan will moisturise and brighten skin, while naturally-derived DHU creates that golden glow.
Site review: 'Best gradual tan cream ever used. Easy application, no streaks, natural look.'
9 of 9Tan-Luxe Super Glow Body Hyaluronic Self-Tan Serum
Not technically a gradual tanner, this super glow body serum from Tan-Luxe is too good to miss out on.
Why we love it: Packed with hydrating hyaluronic acid and antioxidant-rich superfoods, skin looks and feels softer as well as boasting a golden glow.
Site review: 'Perfect to give a little summer glow to my pale skin. Easy to apply and left my skin feeling like silk. It does have a slight fake tan smell once it starts developing but I’ve yet to find a self tan product that doesn’t smell! I’ll definitely be buying this again.'