Nothing beats that feeling you get when you step off the plane and the sun hits you. You finally know that you’ve arrived on holiday. But, unless you’re jetting off on a long-haul flight anytime soon, it might be a few months before you get that feeling. Although, it doesn’t mean that you can't recreate that holiday glow.
Gradual tans are the best way to help you feel like you’ve just got back from paradise – even if you haven’t.
Whether you’re new to tanning or have a season pass, we’ve found the best gradual tanners to pop in your basket. OK, you don’t have to be prepared enough to have already brought your high-waisted bikinis in anticipation for your summer holiday to get involved. But if you are, we’re not even mad.
Nights out with streaky legs are truly behind us as we say hello to gorgeous sun-kissed skin. Here are our top tips on how to use gradual tan:
Use a mitt
This might sound simple but if you use a mitt, you’ll be able to apply the gradual tan better and it’ll leave your skin looking lush.
Don't apply every day
Before you rush to apply any gradual tan, make sure to read the instructions. Usually, you’ll only need to apply this once a week to achieve that holiday glow.
Moisturiser is your best friend
If you don’t already, make sure to use a moisturiser when you have your tan on. This will help you to remain bronzed for longer - yas!
Tan the right bits
Before you whack some regular tan on, double check its suitable for use all over your body. Most gradual tan is suitable for the body, but you'll probably need to buy a separate one to match your face.
Shop gradual tanner now
Now you're clued up on the best gradual tanning tips, it's time to buy our favourite ones.
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Shop: the best gradual tan
1. Bondi Sands Everyday Gradual Tanning Milk
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Want to maintain that summer glow 365 days of the year? This body moisturiser will slowly give you the shimmer you're after.
2. Face by Skinny Tan Moisturising Oil Drops
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Do you find it hard to match your face to your gradual tan? This won't be a problem any more because the moisturising oil drops will help you achieve the sun-kissed look everywhere.
3. Cocoa Brown Perfect Fade Tanning Oil
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We've found your perfect shade to help you achieve that gradual tan look... You're welcome!
4. St.Tropez Self Tan Classic Starter Kit
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Are you new to the world of fake tan? This is the best set to get you started. It includes the St. Tropez Self Tan Classic Bronzing Mousse, St. Tropez Tan Enhancing Body Polish, St. Tropez Tan Enhancing Body Moisturiser and the St. Tropez Applicator Mitt.
5. St. Tropez Gradual Tan Watermelon Infusion Moisture Miracle Lotion
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Do you find that your skin gets dry when using fake tan? This beauty will lock in moisture for up to 72 hours so you can have that gradual glow for longer.
6. Garnier Summer Body Gradual Self Tan
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Want to look bronzed on a budget? This gorgeous tanning moisturiser will help you look unreal for less.
7. Isle Of Paradise Glow Clear Self-Tanning Mousse
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It says it in its name, but this tanning mousse will definitely transport you to paradise. In just four hours, this fake tan essential will use your skin tone as a base to give you a natural look. Plus, it doesn't leave you looking orange or streaky - result!
8. DECLÉOR Aroma Confort Gradual Glow Hydrating Body Milk
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For something a bit more premium, try out Decleor's gradual glow lotion. Over two to three uses, you'll notice your skin appears golden.
9. Lusso Tan Rapid Tanning Mousse
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If you want a gradual tan on the go, Lusso Tan is everything you could want and more. Wash off after one hour for a light tan, two hours for a medium tone or leave for around three hours to achieve a deeper look.
10. He-Shi Overnight Ageless Tanning Balm
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Tanning with a side of anti-ageing, where do I sign up? This over-night balm will leave you feeling bronzed and fabulous.
11. Tan-Luxe The Gradual
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You name it - face and body, this gradual tanner will do it all. Top tip: make sure that you apply it with a mitt so that you get the coverage you need.
12. Autograph Self Tan Luxe Facial Oil
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Looking for a more natural tan? This facial oil from Autograph at M&S uses your own amino acids to help you achieve a summer tone. WOW!
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