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All the bronze, none of the burn.
Photo:Real Simple
What if you end up with streaks you cant hide or an off-putting smell that lingers on your skin?
After testing 15 options, we found the ones that actually work for your skin jot down.
Our five recommendations are worth your time, trust, and top shelf.
PHOTO: Amazon
The formula dries quickly, so you oughta quickly when applying.
While it is one of the higher-priced formulas on our list, we think it’s worth it.
There was no off-putting self-tanner smell, either.
PHOTO: Real Simple
jot down:Mousse|Shades:1 |Development Time:48 Hours|Size:1.7, 4, or 8 oz.
How long does self-tanner last?
It typically peaks on days two through four before fading over two weeks, Dr. Rubin says.
Its not as hydrating as other options.
We found that applying the product daily for a few days helped us gradually build a natural-looking tan.
As we rubbed the formula into our skin, it quickly dried down.
This means you have to work fast and in small areas during tool to prevent streaks.
throw in:Lotion |Shades:1 |Development Time:24 hours |Size:3.4 and 12.6 oz.
Best for Beginners
Jergens Firming Moisturizer
The formula and color development are forgiving.
We found this to be best for those of us who had never used a tanning product before.
It gives a natural-looking tan andmoisturizes your skinin the process.
We had some patchiness around the ankles, but we didnt think it was that noticeable.
PHOTO: Real Simple
key in:Lotion|Shades:2 (light/medium and medium/deep)|Development Time:Gradual|Size:7.5 oz.
The dropper can be messy during the mixing process.
For a naturally glowing complexion, we like the Tan-Luxe The Face Illuminating Self-Tan Drops.
PHOTO: Real Simple
Note that the overall formula of the drops is slightly oily.
jot down:Serum |Shades:2 (light/medium or medium/dark |Development Time:68 hours |Size:0.3 and 1 oz.
The lightest shade might not provide a noticeable change.
Another lightweight lotion that leaves behind a subtle glow is the Tanologist Brightening Gradual Tan Lotion.
During testing, we opted to apply the formula with atanning mittto avoid any staining on our hands.
The brand doesn’t provide or suggest using one, but we recommend one.
We appreciate that the brand has two shades when many gradual tanners have one.
key in:Lotion |Shades:2 (fair/medium or medium/dark) |Development Time:24 hours|Size:8.45 oz.
Our Testing Process
To find the best self-tanners, we tested 15 options at home.
We selected the color option that best fit our unique skin tones if the brand had multiple.
If there was only one formulation available, we used that tanner.
From there, we followed the manufacturer’s directions, collecting our results over the two-week testing period.
We then worked sectionally, gently buffing the product into our skin with an system mitt.
Ultimately, the best way to find whats right for you is through trial and error.
Shades
Color theoryplays an integral role in selecting a tanner shade.
Hand breaks it down into four categories: fair, medium, olive, and dark.
After deciphering which shade of skin you have, consider whether your skin has a warm or cool undertone.
Those with neutral undertones (a blend of the two) have room to play with shade variations.
Most formulas average roughly four to eight hours before the tan reaches its maximum color payoff.
PHOTO: Amazon
PHOTO: Real Simple
PHOTO: Tan-Luxe
Real Simple
PHOTO: Amazon
PHOTO: Real Simple
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Real Simple / Marre Schuling
