Suntan without the sun
The lazy, poolside days of summer are coming to an end. But no one wants to say goodbye to that perfect bronze from the past few months in the sun. Luckily, there are more sunless tanners than ever to chose from to take that glowing complexion into fall.
ST. TROPEZ GRADUAL TAN IN SHOWER GOLDEN GLOW — MEDIUM Best for: The overscheduled tanner
The brand that set the gold standard for tanning products has updated its best-selling in-shower formula with a deeper shade, and it’s worth the upgrade. The application process is convenient, particularly for those who only have a few minutes to spare. After showering, turn off the water and apply like a lotion, wait three minutes, then rinse off. The formula does make shower floors slippery, otherwise it’s fairly foolproof. $25 at sttropeztan.com, as well as Sephora, Ulta, salons and e-tailers.
JERGENS NATURAL GLOW DAILY MOISTURIZER Best for: The casual user
Jergens’ moisturizer is a cult classic. It feels like a lotion and is user-friendly — there’s minimal danger of streaks even for beginners. The color also is subtle, which makes it a good choice for winter months. $8.99
CLARINS SELF TANNING MILKY-LOTION Best for: A light pre-vacay glow
Clarins has been a staple in the quality-tanning market for years, and that includes its new easy-to-apply lotion. The moisturizing tanner, which includes fig extract, comes out of the tube a gentle white hue and leaves users with a subtle glow you can see within 10 minutes. $38 at clarins.com
FAKE BAKE FLAWLESS COCONUT TANNING SERUM Best for: Kardashian-level professionals
The brand has a solid list of celebrity fans, including Chrissy Teigen and Demi Lovato, but it’s not for the tanning faint of heart. The new Flawless Serum is a serious undertaking, complete with gloves. It’s important to properly exfoliate and moisturize skin before applying, and coat evenly to prevent streaks. But the color creates the illusion of a recent trip to the Caribbean.
SALLY HANSEN’S AIRBRUSH SUN INSTANT TANNING MOUSSE Best for: A quick fix
Drugstore beauty addicts know that Sally Hansen’s Airbrush Legs is a secret gem. It’s counterpart mousse is still more leg makeup than tanner, but it can be a savior for those weddings or formal events when legs are winter-white and tights are not an option. $13.99
JAMES READ SLEEP MASK TAN — BODY Best for: Impatient bronzers
Ever want to go to sleep and wake up with a darker tan? James Read’s overnight tan is the way to go. The serum is best applied with a tanning mitt, but dries quickly. It has a faint smell so it’s best to rinse off first thing in the morning. But sheets stay remarkably clean. $52 at Sephora