Fake tan is a staple part of my beauty routine - especially at this time of year when I'm desperate to pep-up my dull, sun-starved skin without relinquishing my non-negotiable daily applications of SPF 50. That said, while I’ll slather Tan-Luxe my on body with reckless abandon, I’m considerably more reserved when it comes to my face. I have sensitive, reactive skin and the formulations I have used in the past just don't play ball. They’ve blocked my pores, clung to dry patches, and even slid off my shine inclined t-zone altogether. For that reason, I got used to reaching for make-up instead. Bronzers and bronzing drops (Westman Atelier’s are a recent favourite) feel like safer options when it comes to faking a tan. But a brand new launch - and a traditional fake tan at that - has piqued my interest. Enter the St.Tropez Sunlit Skin Self Tan Express, £29 which promises sun-kissed skin all year round.
What does the St. Tropez Sunlit Skin Self Tan Express do?
Deliver 'lit-from-within luminosity,' that's what. 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 vitamin E which help to hydrate, soothe and smooth for a more radiant complexion in the long run.
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St. Tropez say: 'The Sunlit Skin Self Tan Express is a glow-giving hero for lit-from-within luminosity and a sunkissed bronze.'
One reviewer said: 'Absolutely in love with this tan! It gives me the most natural glow, it goes on like a dream and the formula is so easy to apply! For someone like me who doesn’t use fake tan very often because is anxious of doing it wrong, this is an absolute must!'
Pros
- Nozzle makes for precise application
- Easy to blend
- Infused with actives
Cons
- Doesn't travel well - plane pressure makes it leak (we found out the hard way!)
- Best when teamed with the brush which is sold seperately
How to apply the St. Tropez Sunlit Skin Self Tan Express
You can apply this directly to clean, dry skin straight from the precision dropper nozzle. Around six drops across the top of my forehead, one down the centre of my nose, and three under each cheekbone is my sweet spot for a natural, subtle radiance. I'll then ensure it's evenly blended using the St.Tropez Tantour & Applicator Brush, £16. This brush is a game changer. Genuinely. It makes for fool-proof application thanks to the soft, deftly shaped bristles which hug the contours of the face. I always ensure to brush the tan up into the hairline in sweeping motions for a beautifully blended finish. This is rinse free, too - no timers required. Simply apply and go about your day.
Before and after, 3 hours after application
Our verdict
Rachael Martin, beauty editor:
‘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.'
Final thoughts
While hitting on the ideal dose for your desired finish might initially involve a little trial and error, know that once you've nailed it, you've really nailed it. This facial fake tan is as natural-looking as they come, and is bound to reel in the compliments. Just don't forget the brush.
Rachael Martin is Grazia’s beauty editor where she covers all things beauty, health and wellness.