Shop our selection of the best gradual tans for a natural glow

Want to nail a natural and believable tan? Look no further than our roundup of the best gradual bronzers to hit the market recently. Much more forgiving than many one-offsinner tanGradual bronzers slowly build color with each application. That way, you can start with less and gradually add more to build up the intensity without leaving a trace in sight. The result? A sun-kissed golden glow. A fake tan, by comparison, produces instant results that are often more noticeable than a gradual tan.
Now that the sun isn't shining so bright, let's not blame you for wanting to tan, especially if you're very strong by nature.pale skin. But picking up a bottle of the fake stuff is always key. Jules Von Hep, tanning expert and founder of Isle of Paradise, says: “Getting tan is like boosting confidence. Members look slimmer and a tan glow makes everyone look healthier. Tanning can be daunting for beginners, but there's no reason to hesitate with a gradual tan." Want to discover the best gradual tan for your skin? Keep scrolling for all the tanning tips, app tricks, and our edit of our favorite fake tan below.
SHOP: Best Gradual Tan of 2022

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This lightweight bronzing mousse hydrates and hydrates while imparting a gradual glow. It also blends incredibly easily and gives off a gorgeous glow that would be mistaken for a natural tan.
Why we love it:The product has a non-greasy formula, which means that it does not weigh down the skin after application. Its moisturizing properties are absorbed by the skin up to 48 hours after application.
Website rating:"I just received it today and I can already see the difference, it's exactly as it says in the description, no streaks, grease or stains. I love this product already."

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If this is your first foray into fake tan territory, try this easy-to-use, skin-care formula.
Why we love it:This bronzer was formulated by the world's leading tanning expert, Jules Von Hep, which means you can really trust that this is a product that will give you the results you want. Packed with chai seed, avocado and coconut oils, your skin will be nourished and develop a natural-looking tan.
Website rating:"I must say this is a really nice gradual tan and I was glowing after just one use. I have been complimented on it and would recommend it if you want to switch from a fake tan.

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A luxurious gradual tan that deeply hydrates the skin and can be built up to a more intense finish.
Why we love it:Creates a streak-free, luminous golden tan that lasts for days. The gelatin formula is extremely easy to blend to create an even layer, and the sweet almond oil hydrates the skin and smells amazing.
Website rating:'Purchased yesterday and delivered today. Excellent product and I have been using it for some time. Highly recommended first class service.'

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This skincare and tanning hybrid contains ingredients to brag about, including hyaluronic acid and vitamins C and E.
why do we love it: The Bondi Sands Pure range is fragrance free, meaning it doesn't have that awful cookie smell, and is made with 100% recyclable packaging, meaning a perfect tan doesn't have to cost you the earth.
Our rating:“Bondi Sands knows what it takes to tan and this tanning lotion is no exception. It doesn't smell like anything, which means it doesn't leave that horrible fake tan smell and after using it, the skin feels so soft, nourished and tanned.”

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You might as well skip the moisturizer altogether when your gradual bronzer has so many skin benefits.
Why we love it:With an innovative moisture lock system, the lotion keeps skin hydrated for up to 72 hours while providing a glowing tan.
Website rating:"I have fair skin but tan over time and have always used a gradual tan to start the summer. This product is the best I have ever used in terms of color, smell and longevity. I use a tanning mitt which is important for the overall result for my skin, but this one is forgiving and blends really well even when rushed.”

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For true skin care, try this rich self-tanning cream that smells good, absorbs quickly and develops a golden (not orange) tan.
Why we love it:This Sisley bronzer is perfect for anyone wanting a tan enriched with essential oils and active ingredients that provide fast, long-lasting hydration and enhanced hydration. It comes with macadamia oil.
Website rating:“I loved everything about this product. This is the best self tanner I've ever had. Moisturizes and glides on smoothly.'

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For a subtle tan, try This Works Perfect Legs Gradual Tan, which can be used all over the body and applied daily (the brand recommends five times a week) to strengthen it.
Why we love it:Formulated with vitamins C and E, this gradual tan hydrates and brightens the skin, while naturally sourced DHU creates that golden glow.
Website rating:'Best gradual tanning cream ever used. Easy application, no scratches, natural look.'

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Not technically a gradual bronzer, this super-shimmering body serum from Tan-Luxe is too good to pass up.
Why we love it:Packed with hydrating hyaluronic acid and antioxidant-rich superfoods, skin looks and feels smoother and glows with a golden glow.
Website rating:"Perfect for giving my pale skin a summery glow. It's easy to apply and my skin feels like silk. It has a slight fake tan smell when it develops, but I haven't found a self-tanning product that doesn't smell. Will definitely buy again.”

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A tinted body lotion that develops in just a few hours and dries quickly so you don't have to worry about bedding or clothing.Why we love it:Ideal for sensitive skin, this gradual tan is fragrance- and oil-free and has a light, silky texture that blends seamlessly for a streak-free finish.
Website rating:"No matter what shade you choose from Clinique's Self Sun products, you get a very good, fragrance-free, lightweight self-tanning lotion suitable for all skin types."
According to the bronzer and founder of her homonymous line,amanda harington, a gradual tan takes two to three days to develop to a bronzed finish. She explains, "The beauty of a gradual tan is that it can be touched up every few days to maintain an even color." "Always exfoliate and moisturize before tanning, but don'tOn the rightBefore: Give the moisturizer time to penetrate the skin before applying the tan or it will only be on the surface.' 'Apply ahigh performance moisturizerOr a dab of Vaseline on areas like the insides of the arms, elbows, knees, and ankles, which are prone to color buildup and are often trouble spots for home tanning. Finally, don't forget to wear a glove to apply the gradual self-tanner, or wash your hands thoroughly after application, nothing says "This color is from a bottle!" like the famous orange palm trees... You don't have to worry about your golden glow fading after a shower or dip in the pool, as long as you've activated your gradual bronzer at least 4 to 8 hours beforehand. We recommend applying it after showering so the product has time to absorb and work its magic before washing again. If you're on vacation and you're in and out of the pool or ocean, it's probably best to apply in the evening or before bed. To maintain a solid tan, you can use your gradual tan moisturizer every day. The gradual tan can be used anywhere, including the face, but you may want to consider a gradual tan.specially designed for the face. They often come loaded with additional skincare benefits designed specifically for facial skin, like hyaluronic acid and vitamins. If you can. Gradual tans don't have SPF protection (unless otherwise noted), which means your skin is fully exposed to the sun. Therefore, it is important to use a full-spectrum SPF sunscreen in addition to the gradual tan if you plan on going outside.common questions
How long does it take to develop a gradual tan?
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