If you're after a natural, believable bronze, look no further than our round-up of the best gradual tan. Far more forgiving than many one-off fake tans, gradual tans 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.
I'm a huge fan of a sun-kissed glow, although I can’t always look like we’ve been on holiday. Throughout the year, I'll notice myself looking a little peaky - my complexion morphs from radiant to lacklustre and my arms border on grey. All is not lost, though; if you're after a natural, believable bronze, look no further than our round-up of the best gradual tan.
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.
I know the importance of finding the perfect formula, so our curated list of the best gradual tans solves any tanning pain points. Forget those days of a patchiness and streaky finish, or a formula that leaves the skin feeling dry or irritated.
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.'
How long does gradual tan take to develop?
Gradual tan can start to develop in as little as a few hours, but usually you'll see the best results over night. Tanning pro Amanda Harrington shares her tips and tricks.
'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,' advises Harrington.
'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…
In addition to this, our very own Lydia Spencer-Elliot has hacked the system, and has perfected her gradual tan application technique:
I am a complete devotee to Garnier’s Summer Boday, and I like to think I’ve developed a pretty good application technique over top - please, learn from my patch-ridden mistakes. My top tip? Put concerted effort into washing your hands after your fake tanning session. Make sure in particular to wipe in between your fingers with a flannel and soap, unless you want to end up with those giveaway patches the next day. Once you've washed your hands clean, use a clean foundation brush to blend a little of the lotion over the backs of your hand, taking care to avoid dry areas like your knuckles.'
The Best Gradual Tan: At A Glance
Best all-round gradual tan: Tan Luxe The Gradual Illuminating Tanning Lotion, £25
Best gradual tan for dry skin: Garnier Summer Body Hydrating Gradual Tan Moisturiser, £12
Best gradual tan for sensitive skin: Ella&Jo Hydrate & Glow Gradual Moisturiser, £20
Best gradual tan for fair skin: Sisley Paris Self Tanning Hydrating Body Skin Care, £108
Best gradual tan for dark skin: Dove DermaSpa Summer Revived Self Tan Mousse, £11.49
Best gradual tan for beginners: Bondi Sands Everyday Gradual Tanning Milk, £14.49
Best natural-looking gradual tan: Vita Liberata Fabulous Gradual Tanning Lotion, £12.50
How We Tested The Best Gradual Tans 2025
Formula: When it comes to gradual tanning, considering the formula is where we like to start. Texture is everything, for starters. If it's sticky on the skin, we won't include it here. We want our gradual tan to feel nourishing and moisturising but never tacky. We also ensure that we consider all ingredients, and have flagged any that might not work with more sensitive skin types.
Value for money: We've said it before, and we'll say it again. We truly believe that a premium price tag won't always equate to a premium product. Here, we've sought to include a balance of excellent gradual tanners suited to all budgets.
Results: It's obvious, but when it comes to testing gradual tan we something that will mimic a beautiful, natural looking glow. That means no streaks, and no orange tone.
Longevity and wear: To make this list, each gradual tan had to last at least five days before it starts to fade. When fading, we wanted to ensure there was no tiger-bread finish and no patchiness. When the time came for removal, it was vital that any remaining product scrubbed off easily without irritation.
Other reviews: We also took other online reviews from independent buyers into consideration, too. This allowed us to fully consider potential pros and cons of each gradual tanner.
For more information on how we test, see our about us page.
Shop: The Best Gradual Tans
Best Gradual Tan Overall
www.lookfantastic.com
Flaunt a flawless, sun-kissed tan using Tan Luxe The Gradual Tan Lotion, a revolutionary lotion and oil hybrid which gives a natural, bronzed look in just one hour.
Rachael Martin beauty director says: 'This gradual tan is, unusually, a lotion and oil hybrid. Just a small amount delivers a natural, buildable colour, plus the texture is featherweight and silky, making it comfortable to wear. It's fair to say this is my favourite tan of all time. As a beauty editor I've tested a lot of tans, but this one is always the one I revert 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.'
Type: Milk oil hybrid
Size: 250ml
Finish: Natural bronze, radiant
Texture: Lightweight, fast-drying
Fragrance: Low-odour
Pros
- Non-sticky
- Fast drying
- Hydrating - no dryness or irritation
- Vegan
Cons
- Milky texture so floods out quickly
Best Gradual Tan for Dry Skin
www.boots.com
Lydia Spencer Elliot, freelance beauty writer says: 'My obsession started almost a decade ago when I began using this now iconic gradual tan to top up my summer glow during term time at university. Now that I'm a fully fledged ‘young professional’ - as the tabloids like to call us - and theoretically have some semblance of a disposable income ready to spend on prestige beauty brands, I am still resolutely a GSB loyalist, I've thus far found nothing that matches its natural and streak-free results.'
Julia Harvey, shopping editor says: 'I’ve tried plenty of gradual tans, but always come back to Garnier. The scent has drastically improved since first using back in my uni days – now a light peachy fragrance rather than that (strong) telltale biscuit smell. Despite having pretty fair skin, I use the dark shade most days as a body moisturiser throughout the summer to give a natural looking tan in the easiest way possible - and especially after a holiday to prolong the glow- just be sure to rinse your palms after.'
Type: Lotion
Size: 400ml
Finish: Natural bronze, radiant
Texture: Thicker, hydrating
Fragrance: Peachy
Pros
- Enriched with apricot oil
Best Gradual Tan For Sensitive Skin
ellaandjo.co.uk
Experience the ultimate fusion of skincare and sun-kissed radiance with our gradual tanning moisturiser. Combining hydrating Glycerin with skin-reviving Hyaluronic Acid and nourishing Squalane, it delivers a radiant, bronzed look while deeply moisturising and rejuvenating your skin.
Rachael Martin beauty director says: 'Ella & Jo's gradual tan is brimming with skin-loving goodness - think hydrating glycerin, plumping hyaluronic acid and nourishing squalane for a tan that leaves skin looking glorious long after that golden tan has developed. Whether you're after a subtle radiance or a deeper, darker hue, this gradual tanning moisturiser works a treat, especially if you have senstive, reactive skin. No break-outs here. Expect beautiful, sheen-laden skin. It's impressive stuff - but we'd expect nothing less.'
Type: Moisturiser
Size: 200ml
Finish: Natural gold, glowy
Texture: Thicker, hydrating
Fragrance: Slight
Pros
- Available in light-medium and medium-dark
- Vegan
- Suitable for pregnant women
- Soft, natural colour
- Fades naturally
- Vegan
- Cruelty free
Cons
- Slight biscuity smell as it develops
Best Gradual Tan for Fair Skin
www.libertylondon.com
A perfect alternative to sun exposure, this luxury buy gives the skin a golden glow while deeply moisturising.
Rachael Martin beauty director says: 'Anything Sisley has me at hello - I loved everything about this gradual tan for a soft, gentle tan. For a real skin treat, try this rich self-tan cream. It smells sensational (this is rare where fake tan is concerned) sinks in speedily and develops into a subtle, golden (and never orange) even tan. It's an investment, yes but it's 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 nourishment - there's the hefty hit of macadamia oil to thank for that.'
Type: Moisturiser
Size: 150ml
Finish: Supple radiance
Texture: Rich but comfortable
Fragrance: Slight
Pros
- Luxurious texture
- Comes with mitt
- Skin beautifying ingredients
Cons
- Expensive
- Requires consistent application to get to desired colour
Best Gradual Tan for Dark Skin
www.boots.com
With a deeply nourishing yet lightweight formula, this tanning mousse hydrates your skin for up to 48 hours, leaving you with silky-soft and natural-looking sun-kissed skin. This tanning moisturiser provides a buildable tan using gentle, naturally derived tanners to subtly give your skin a bronzed glow.
Rachael Martin beauty director says: 'This lightweight tanning mousse hydrates and moisturises while adding a gorgeous gradual glow. It also blends incredibly easily and gives the kind of olive hue that could easily be mistaken for a natural tan. The product has a non-greasy formula, meaning it won't sit heavily on your skin after application - a must if you're someone who wants to get dressed asap after application. And bonus points for the moisturising properties. Often, mousses can be drying but this is far from the case with this one. Darker skin tones will find favour here - layer up over a couple of days for a rich, deep, golden hue.'
Type: Mousse
Size: 150ml
Finish: Golden, Semi-matte
Texture: Light and airy
Fragrance: Slight
Pros
- Fast absorbing
- Leaves skin feeling soft
Cons
- Some reviewers say needs several layers to achieve a very dark tan
Best Gradual Tan for Beginners
www.lookfantastic.com
Achieve a long-lasting golden radiance with the Bondi Sands Gradual Tanning Milk. Inspired by Australia’s iconic beach, the lightweight formula develops over time into a natural sun-kissed look, all while delivering an instant boost of hydration.
Rachael Martin beauty director says: 'Fear patchiness? This tanning milk blends aloe vera and vitamin E to help nourish and hydrate skin - no flakes or patches in sight. This is a really lovely tanner for those who just want a little something - it's beautifully lightweight and quick-absorbing, removing most of the faff. It's also great option for those with pale skin still wishing to harness a golden glow. There is a faint fake tan smell on initial application, but this fades quickly. And beginners, never fear! Simply apply like your moisturiser and wash hands after using. It's that simple.'
Type: Milk
Size: 375ml
Finish: Golden bronze, radiant
Texture: Light, milky
Fragrance: Chocolate
Pros
- Soothing ingredients
- Can be applied daily
- Ideal for pale skin
Cons
- Also has a choclate-laden scent initially
Best Natural-Looking Gradual Tan
www.lookfantastic.com
Achieve a sun-kissed glow with Vita Liberata's Untinted Fabulous Gradual Tanning Lotion. The self-tanner envelops the body in a buildable bronzed radiance with skin-loving benefits.
Rachael Martin beauty director says: 'You can skip moisturiser altogether when your gradual tanner has this many skincare benefits. Featuring an innovative moisture-locking system, the lotion keeps skin hydrated for up to 72 hours while delivering a radiant tan. I'd also describe this one as very forgiving - it blends very smoothly even when applied in a rush. A top tier tanner brimming with aloe vera, hyaluronic acid and witch hazel.'
Type: Lotion
Size: 100ml
Finish: Golden bronze, radiant
Texture: Hydrating, smooth
Fragrance: Slight
Pros
- Buildable finish
- Feels like a gentle moisturiser
- Contains a mesh of hydrating ingredients
Cons
- Will need a bit of extra exfoliation to remove
Best Quick-Drying Gradual Tan
www.lookfantastic.com
The Sunlit Skin Self Tan Express is a glow-giving hero for lit-from-within luminosity and a sun-kissed bronze.
Rachael Martin beauty director says: '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. 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, dries quickly and feels skin-like when applied. And crucially, it doesn't make me breakout.'
Type: Gel
Size: 30ml
Finish: Golden bronze, matte
Texture: Hydrating, smooth
Fragrance: No
Pros
- Infused with actives
- Nozzle allows for precise application
Cons
- Doesn't travel well - we found out the hard way!
Best Streak-Free Gradual Tan
www.boots.com
With just a touch of self tanner and a yummy chocolate scent, Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Natural Bronze creates a delicate, sun-kissed summer glow all year long.
Rachael Martin beauty director says: 'This is a great gradual tan for those with dry or dull skin. The texture is thick and luxurious and it leaves limbs with an immediate gleam. While you can apply this like a normal moisturiser, I would advise using a mitt for the most natural, streak free finish. It gradually builds a rich tan within a few days, but you should see a golden radiance after one night. It's beautiful - but it is worth noting that the strong, chocolate-y smell is not for everyone. Persevere, however, and you'll be as sun-kissed and streak-free as they come.'
Type: Butter
Size: 400ml
Finish: Deep golden bronze
Texture: Thick, velvety
Fragrance: Yes - strong
Pros
- Very nourishing - coco butter and vitamin E infused
- Great for building a dark but natural tan
Cons
- Strong smell
Best Luxury Gradual Tan
www.boots.com
The Self-Tanning Gel, a self-tanner for the face that enhances skin with a luminous, satiny tan. This self-tanning gel gives skin a gradual tan, for a natural look.
Rachael Martin beauty director says: 'If you want to treat yourself to a luxury tan then consider this an excellent option. Not only will it look beautiful in your stash, but it will nourish skin no end. It's deeply moisturising and can be built up for a more intense finish. 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. I love to use on my face and across my chest for a beautiful, summery finish. In short? Gorgeous!'
Type: Gel
Size: 50ml
Finish: Olive
Texture: Light, blendable
Fragrance: Yes - as it develops
Pros
- Smooth, creamy texture
- Olive toned - very natural
- Contains nourishing lactic acid
Cons
- Biscuity smell can be strong as tan develops
Best Long-Lasting Gradual Tan
www.boots.com
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.
Rachael Martin beauty director says: 'The latest launch from Isle of Paradise, the brand's gradual self-tan, already has the 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. Plus, it lasts up to a week.'
Type: Lotion
Size: 375ml
Finish: Golden, glowing
Texture: Light but nourishing
Fragrance: Subtle
Pros
- Good value for money
- Little goes a long way
- Golden, glowing finish
Cons
- Overapplication may result in slight orange-tone at joints
- Can stain clothes if you don't wait until touch dry
Best Cruelty-Free Gradual Tan
www.cultbeauty.co.uk
Similarly to the brand's The Face, this all-new Super Glow Hyaluronic Self-Tan Serum is powered by a potent hyaluronic acid complex which effortlessly delivers a streak-free, ultra-nourished glow.
Verity Clark former acting beauty editor says: 'Self-tan is not my beauty forte, too much faff, too high stakes. However, I make an exception for Tan Luxe Super Glow Hyaluronic Self Tan Serum which I can kid myself is just an extension of my skincare routine. A few times a week I switch out my usual serum for this. A couple of drops applied pre moisturiser gives my skin the same hydration I expect from my serum but there’s an added tanning agent so over time a lovely, and crucially, natural glow appears. If you’re in the market for week-in-the-sun-colour skip to something stronger but if subtly sunkissed is you’re jam then this is fuss-free and fool proof. Even for the most tanophobic.'
Type: Gel
Size: 30ml
Finish: Golden, glowing
Texture: Silky, water like
Fragrance: Slight
Pros
- Great for dry skin
- A little goes a long way
- Serum doesn't feel sticky or heavy
Cons
- Sometimes the dropper can be tricky
Best Gradual Tan for Face
Amazon
Self tan & skincare combines in this ultra-lightweight & clear facial mist for a natural-looking golden tan - simply spritz & glow all year round
Former shopping editor Aimee Jakes says: 'The ultra-lightweight spritz delivers a naturally sunkissed finish that looks as though you've just been gallivanting around the Mediterranean. It's a clean formula carefully packed with non-comedogenic ingredients - meaning it won't block your pores - and it actually smells nice. The clincher for me is how easy it is to apply. Simply spritz around five to six pumps under or over makeup for a flawless tan in under 12 hours. Personally, I like to spray mine over my evening serums but before my thick moisturiser in a genius technique, I'm dubbing the 'glow sandwich'.'
Type: Mist
Size: 80ml
Finish: Subtle
Texture: Water like
Fragrance: Slight
Pros
- Fruity, floral scent
- Can be applied over make-up
- Non pore blocking ingredients
- Vegan
Cons
- Works best when blended out with a brush
Best Budget Gradual Tan
www.boots.com
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. 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.'
Type: Lotion
Size: 200ml
Finish: Natural, glowing
Texture: Thicker, luxurious
Fragrance: Slight
Pros
- Great for dry skin
- Suited to all skin types
- Derm approved
Cons
- Not the best for those who want a deep, dramatic look
Best Gradual Tan Drops
www.cultbeauty.co.uk
Achieve a natural-looking golden glow that lasts for 7-10 days with these self-tanning drops.
Rachael Martin beauty director says: '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! 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.'
Type: Drops
Size: 15ml
Finish: Natural, glowing
Texture: Light, blendable
Fragrance: No
Pros
- Buildable results
- Natural ingredients
- Long wearing, even fade
Cons
- Small bottle
- Expensive
Best Gradual Tan for Body
www.lookfantastic.com
A fast-absorbing cream-gel formula that instantly hydrates the skin, creating an even, glowing tan.
Rachael Martin beauty director says: 'I'm a recent convert to Gatineau's gradual tan and I can honestly say it's one of the best I've ever used. This super-sized version sits on the side of my bathtub so I can easily use it post showering. I take a pump then apply with my hands exactly as I would a moisturiser. If I'm diligent with hand washing afterwards (this is crucial) then it's fool proof, coating my skin with a gleaming, glowy, radiant hit of colour that develops quickly and lasts for days. This is one of the only fake tans that smell genuinely good too, thanks to fragrant top notes of pear and mandarin coupled with an elegant base of sandalwood and musk. It also has excellent skin loving credentials thanks to vitamin E and soy oil.'
Type: Cream - gel
Size: 400ml
Finish: Golden, glowing
Texture: Thicker, but soaks in quickly
Fragrance: Low-odour
Pros
- 400ml- generous size
- Brimming with active ingredients
- Handy pump
Cons
- An expensive purchase (but still great value for money given the size)
In need of some more gradual tanning tips and tricks? Grazia has consulted Kimberley Nkosi, a spray tan and skin finishing specialist. She was behind Ryan Gosling and Margot Robbie's glow on the new Barbie film, so it's fair to say she knows her stuff.
Kimberley Nkosi's Top Tips For Achieving The Best Gradual Tan:
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'Always exfoliate prior to gradual tan application. As the skin sheds and renews cells daily, exfoliation is the key to having a perfect base and avoiding congestion or build up. My go to exfoliating method is a combination of dry brushing and body scrubs.'
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'Prep and prep well. Set aside time for all hair removal the night before and follow by hydrating the area with a moisturiser. Do this again prior to application, paying extra attention to the hands, elbows, knees and feet. Protect nails with a barrier cream.'
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'When applying gradual tan on myself, I like to work in sections. I use a tanning glove and concentrate on each area. I'll glide over the part I’m working on, and then use a buffing brush around my wrists and ankles. This will allow for an even fade - remember, these are the parts that don't get too much sun. To finish I then use a wipe to clean my toes and nails.
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'Always check in the mirror to see if you’ve missed anything - you're looking for a dewy sheen over every part of the skin.'
How To Know What Shade Of Gradual Tan To Use?
Typically, with gradual tan, it's best to choose a shade based on your skin tone and how you'd like your results to look on the skin. For example, if you have fair skin, opt for a light to medium gradual tan to avoid any unnatural streaks or orange tones. Don't forget your undertones - green undertones will create a warmer looking tan, whereas a violet-based tan will help eradicate any unwanted redness.
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,' advises tanning pro Amanda Harrington. We recommend using a mild body scrub that contains AHAs or BHAs to gently exfoliate any dead skin cells - focus on any rough spots on the body, like knees and elbows.
Don't forget to moisturise those dryer areas to prevent any unwanted patchiness. Amanda goes on to say, '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…
Lydia Spencer-Elliott is the former acting senior features writer at Grazia UK. She has previously freelanced for VICE, The Guardian, The Independent, Cosmopolitan and more. At Grazia, she writes news and features about politics, pop culture, sex, health, entertainment, and real-life stories.
Rachael Martin is Grazia’s Beauty Director. Originally from Northern Ireland, she studied English Literature at Queen’s University Belfast, before moving to London to pursue a career in magazine journalism