For those who like to use a bit of fake tan to add warmth, there are so many excellent formats on today's market. But the best gradual tans offer buildable colour that develops (as the name suggests) gradually in more failsafe formulas, making them a great starting point for beginners.
Though some of the best fake tans for mature skin yield a holiday-worthy glow in as a quickly as an hour or two, or immediately in the case of the best instant tans, they also require plenty of time on your part prepping, scrubbing, showering and moisturising. So what if you don't have the time (or energy) for the full shebang but still want to warm up your complexion? Enter, gradual tans.
Tanning expert and master facialilst Michaella Bolder is a particular fan of these fuss-free and simplistic options: "The great thing about gradual tans is that they contain deeply nourishing properties that enable you to customise your own tanning results at home while caring for your skin," she says.
After a lot of testing on the part of our beauty team, we've shared reviews of what we deem the top nine best gradual tans to shop now in this need-to-know guide. Whether you’re new to self-tan, wanting a natural-looking glow, or are simply wondering how to make a tan last longer, there's something here for pretty much everyone...
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The 9 best gradual tan buys, reviewed by our beauty team
Reviewed by: Sennen Prickett
RRP: £18 for 200ml | Texture: Lotion | Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, marine algae, blueberry and raspberry seed oils | Shades available: 2
We're always keen to stock up on anything that contains high levels of skin-loving ingredients, which work to hydrate, protect, smooth and soothe the skin, so this St. Tropez option was a no brainer. Imparting a slightly deeper end colour on our skin than some of the other best gradual tan options we tested, this super-effective formula goes on like a dream. We also loved that there's no need to apply two or three layers to gets result, so it's a great time-saver as part of an at-home self tanning routine. The texture spreads really nicely and covers your limbs without missing a spot (winner), so no nasty streaking here. In our book, it's a proper trustworthy gradual tan offering that will not let you down.
Pros
- 72 hours of hydration
- Hydrates, protects and smooths skin
- Two shades available
- Buildable
- Lightweight and non-sticky
Cons
- Hard to fault!
Reviewed by: Sennen Prickett
RRP: £8.75 for 200ml | Texture: Lotion | Key ingredients: Cell-Moisturisers®, natural seed oils | Shades available: 2
Despite trying various different fake tan formulas over the years, I've relied on this formula for years; I've raved about it so much that I've introduced it to all my friends. While it's undoubtedly a staple throughout the summer months, I actually use this gem all year round – as I love its results that much. Despite not having a guide colour, it's very easy to apply and I get a seamless, streak-free finish with every use.
After finding myself googling how to get fake tan off hands one too many times, I personally choose to apply the lotion with a mitt to ensure an even application. It effortlessly glides onto the skin, while also drying down fast and without transferring onto my clothes or bedsheets. Plus, considering its affordable price tag, I'd say this formula is pretty close to perfection.
Pros
- Naturally-derived DHA
- Hydrates the skin
- Easy to apply
- Doesn't transfer
- Natural finish
Cons
- No guide colour
Reviewed by: Annie Milroy
RRP: £25 for 250ml | Texture: Lotion and oil hybrid | Key ingredients: Raspberry seed oil, vitamin E and Aloe vera | Shades available: 1
This Tan-Luxe buy has an oil–lotion hybrid formula which glides effortlessly across skin, melting in like butter and unlocks a natural, bronzed look that adapts to your skin tone. Laced with raspberry seed oil, vitamin E and aloe vera, it hydrates, smooths, and firms skin, too – and it’s odour-free.
We also found that it develops faster than most – delivering a subtle glow after just one hour. Wait another three hours and your skin will look seriously radiant. It also was our favourite formula for using as a fake tan for your face out of the gradual tan options we tried. And while it is pricier than a lot of product, we think it's well worth it for the results.
Pros
- Absorbs quickly
- Skincare ingredients
- No fake tan smell
- Speedy developing
- Works great on the face too
Cons
- On the pricey side for a gradual tan
Reviewed by: Annie Milroy
RRP: £12 for 400ml | Texture: Cream | Key ingredients: Apricot oil | Shades available: 2
You don’t have to break the bank to get a good glow, and this product is proof. Garnier's gradual self-tan lotion lends limbs a natural hint of colour that can be built up from soft and subtle to a "whoah!" kind of glow. Brimming with nourishing apricot oil, its moisturising formula challenges some of the best body moisturiser. We used a mitt to apply the cream, buffing it in for an even, streak-free finish – which also meant we avoided the risk of tell-tale orange hands. We did find the formula is a little sticky when you first apply it, but it soon sinks in and begins to develop. The one other downside? We really noticed it does have that distinctive fake tan scent.
Pros
- Lightweight formula
- Hydrates and moisturises skin
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Streak-free finish
Cons
- Strong 'fake tan' smell
- Slightly sticky
Reviewed by: Sarah Cooper-White
RRP: £5.99 for 200ml | Texture: Lotion | Key ingredients: Coenzyme Q10 | Shades available: 1
We really liked this Nivea gradual tan option and found it was one of the best fake tan for pale skin options, as it provides a gorgeous natural-looking glow. The lotion boasts a fruity floral aroma, so it had none of that dreaded fake tan smell. The lightweight lotion absorbed easily into our skin and left it looking plump and hydrated instantly.
We would note that it did slightly sting when we applied just after shaving, so it might be worth leaving to apply the day after a shave. Our Beauty Director Sarah Cooper-White tried it for herself and says: "Normally gradual tans leave my knees looking patchy and orange but this didn't, it glided onto my limbs and was completely streak-free and evenly balanced."
Pros
- Suitable for face and body
- Lightweight lotion
- Easy to apply
- Delivers subtle glow
- Fresh floral and fruity scent
Cons
- Stings when applied after shaving
Reviewed by: Sennen Prickett
RRP: £34 for 150ml | Texture: Lightweight cream | Key ingredients: Organic Aloe vera, ginkgo biloba extract and bladderwrack, witch hazel, glycerin | Shades available: 1
This serum-meets-moisturiser formula is tinted in colour which allows for an easy and seamless application when applied with long, circular motions. It’s worth noting that you need quite a few pumps to cover the entire body – so if you like it as much as we do, the bottle will run out fast. That said, we can confirm that this gradual tan delivers a believable lightly-bronzed radiant finish that looks as though you’ve just come back from holiday. It also boasts slow-releasing DHA, which means results will continue to develop for up to 72 hours after application. Oh, and there’s also a cocktail of powerhouse skincare ingredients to hydrate, moisturise, smooth, and soothe skin, too.
Pros
- Scented with cocoa
- Slow-releasing gradual tan
- Skincare ingredients
- Long-lasting results
Cons
- Have to use a lot to cover entire body
Reviewed by: Annie Milroy
RRP: £13.99 for 150ml | Texture: Lotion | Key ingredients: Avocado extract, bentonite and shea butter | Shades available: 1
Ideal for the summer months, this everyday tanner instantly moisturises dry skin with avocado extract and shea butter, while gradually developing into a subtle tan. It’s a great pick for fake tan first-timers as well as those who want to top up their tan post-holiday. After a few hours, we noticed our skin had developed a nice subtle glow that was both streak-free and natural looking. It wasn’t as deep as we expected, but this meant we could truly control the level of colour and meant we just had to apply a little extra the next day to get the perfect level of faux holiday glow. The downside? The cocoa butter scent is quite overpowering and sweet – but we'd say it's definitely worth it for the results.
Pros
- Hydrates and soothes skin
- Quick-absorbing
- Great for everyday use
- Mess-free application
Cons
- Strong scent
Reviewed by: Sennen Prickett
RRP: £42 for 150ml | Texture: Serum | Key ingredients: Vitamin C, natural caramel and shea butter | Shades available: 1
If you’re after a quick glow booster, specifically designed for your legs, consider this tanning serum from This Works. Powered by vitamin C and shea butter – this skin savvy serum (that also smells amazing) bolsters radiance and locks in moisture for luminous limbs. It also contains DHA to build a bronzed, healthy-looking glow.
We applied it to clean, dry skin using our hand, but you can also use a mitt to apply. If you do use your hands just be sure to wash them immediately after application. We adore the instant glow you get from this serum and noticed that after a few hours, our legs looked nicely tanned. We're officially hooked and will be using this prior to weddings, parties, and holidays.
Pros
- Moisturises skin
- Delivers sun-kissed glow
- Lovely scent
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- Fades quickly
Reviewed by: Annie Milroy
RRP: £35 for 200ml | Texture: Lightweight cream | Key ingredients: Coconut and soy oil, vitamin E | Shades available: 1
Initially, we wondered what could justify this gradual tan being this expensive for the size. But it turns out it’s worth every single penny, and possibly the best gradual tan luxury option we tested. Annie says: "I was shocked at just how luxe and unique this product is. The first thing you will notice is the irresistible scent made up of pear, mandarin mixed with sandalwood, and musk. When I say this is one of the best smelling body lotion buys I have ever used, I am in no way exaggerating."
She continues, "The super lightweight lotion absorbed instantly and left my skin feeling silky soft. It left lovely sun-kissed colour and secured me lots of compliments from my team on its transformative powers."
Pros
- Ultra-moisturising
- Gorgeous scent
- Absorbs instantly
- Streak free
Cons
- Expensive
How we tested the best gradual tans
A selection of the gradual tans that we tested for this guide
In terms of gradual tanners to test, we were spoilt for choice, as the market is chock-full From drops and mousse to mists and creams, there are so many new sophisticated self-tans out there which makes finding "the one" a tricky task. To filter out the best gradual tan from the rest, we tested a wide variety of gradual tans from different brands at a range of price points and considered an array of features, in order to find the nine very best formulas on the market.
As with the best bronzers, we were looking for the gradual tan that blends in seamlessly, adding warmth without looking too obvious. We applied each product more than once over the course of a few days to see how it developed, checking for patches and streaks. We also looked out for application ease, whether the tan transfers onto clothes and how it fades.
- Price: A higher price point doesn't necessarily mean a better product, but we were looking for a product to perform really well in line with its price and offer value for money.
- Packaging: Needed to be functional and, ideally, non-messy – while a chic design is always appreciated.
- Application: Formulas should be easy to use and apply.
- Consistency: Non-stickiness, easy blendability and quick absorption were all plus points.
- Transfer: Lots of transferring on to bed sheets and clothes is, of course, a no in our book.
- How it develops with time: Ideally, a formula would fade evenly and not become very patchy with time.
How to choose the best gradual tan
If you're in the market to add a gradual tan into your self-tan repertoire, there are a few important factors to consider in order to find the specific formula that works the best for you...
- Formula: Gradual tans come in an array of variable formulas, from lotions to mists. Give thought to which texture works best for you and your skin type, for example a cream will be a stellar option for those prioritising hydration, whereas a mist may be more suited to those wanting a lightweight feel.
- Ingredients: Many gradual tanners also include ingredients found in facial skincare. Looking at the ingredients will help you narrow down your choices depending on what you want from a gradual tan. For example, hyaluronic acid and natural oils will benefit those wanting to hydrate and moisturise the skin, while Aloe vera will help soothe the skin.
- Number of shades: Have your skin tone and the
- this will allow you to tailor the shade to suit your skin tone, plus you'll gain more control over the depth of tan that you desire.
- Price: It's not just the initial investment you have to think about, but how quickly you'll go through a product and want to repurchase it, too. Consider how often you use a gradual tan and if you can afford to repeat buy it to avoid getting hooked on something way out of budget.
The most popular gradual tan FAQs, answered
What is gradual tan?
The clue is in the name when it comes to gradual tan, these are self-tanning products that develop slowly over time or with reoccurring application. This often means they boast a more subtle bronzed glow finish, that can be applied to suit the level of tan you desire – making them a less daunting experience than self tan mousses or instant tans.
Bolder adds the long-lasting benefits of using a gradual tan: "They can offer an immediate golden glow to create a tan after eight hours, with long-lasting effects for up to seven days."
What is the best gradual tan?
The best gradual tan should not be easy to apply, but also delivers a subtle sun-kissed glow that can be tailored to achieve your desired depth of tan. Not to mention, many gradual tans arrive in a moisturiser formula which simultaneously work to hydrate the skin, too.
There are lots of stellar gradual tans available on the market, many of which are featured within this tried and tested guide, however notable options include the Dove DermaSpa Gradual Tan for those looking for an affordable product that requires easy application, alternatively Gatineau's Golden Glow Gradual Tan Cream is a great luxury option. That said, we must give honourable mentions to Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula Natural Bronze Gradual Tanning Lotion and Tan Truth's Daily Gradual Tan.
How do you apply gradual tan?
Bolder says that incorporating the best gradual tan into your body care routine is the best way to keep your glow going, and make the most of their abilities. "I encourage my clients to incorporate tanning products into their daily body care routine so that it feels like an effortless application," she says. "I like to use it as part of my body care routine in the morning after I have showered, exfoliated my skin, and moisturized but there is no right or wrong time."
She shares some of her tried-and-tested tips to get the best application from your gradual tan.
- Prep is everything: "Always prep the skin correctly ahead of using any tanning products, shaving ahead of tanning is ideal however when using a gradual tan as part of your body care routine shaving is also welcome the day after you have applied your gradual tan."
- Scrub up: "Use a gritty oil-free exfoliant in the shower before tanning and every 3-4 days post tanning to buff away any dead skin."
- Moisturise dry patches: Use an oil-free moisturizer before tanning, focusing on any dry areas such as elbows, knees, hands, and ankles."
- Use a fresh mitt: "I always recommended any tanning products to be applied using a fresh clean tanning mitt. This enables a seamless finish without the need to wash your hands."
- Avoid streaks with long strokes: "Use long sweeping motions to apply the tan starting on the legs, and working up the body for a flawless finish."
Our expert panel
Sennen is digital beauty writer at woman&home, where she shares the latest beauty launches, trending buys and personal product recommendations, from makeup and hair to skincare and nails. As a regular gradual tan user, she knows what to look for in an effective, natural-looking formula and shared in-depth reviews of some of her favourites.
Annie Milroy is the beauty writer for woman&home and other publications. After eight years working in the fashion & beauty industry, she's left the fashion world behind and now writes about everything from lightweight foundations, her favourite perfumes, to natural-looking fake tans – making her a great person to share insights.
Group Beauty Director Sarah Cooper-White has almost 20 years experience as a beauty journalist. She has written for many well known national magazines, newspapers and brands including woman&home, Woman, Woman's Own, Woman's Weekly, Boots, Tesco, ELLE, InStyle, The Mirror, The Sun, Prima and Top Santé. In her decades of industry experience, she's tried many fake tan formulas and knows what makes a formula that's good enough to use on the regular.
Emma Stoddart is a freelance beauty journalist who has worked for some of the UK’s top titles including NET-A-PORTER, Stylist and Grazia. Her experience covers both online and print, including producing editorial shoots with some of the industry’s biggest artists. As a beauty expert, she also shared insights into the gradual tanners that really work.
Michaella Bolder is one of the industry's leading self tanning experts and a master facialist. Her expertise meant she was incredibly well placed to explain some of the benefits of gradual tan formulas for this guide.
