Review by: Mike Hardcastle
Nothing says summer like a glowing tan – but we all know that endless basking in the sun can be bad for your skin and could lead to skin cancer. Don’t fret! There is no need to resolve yourself to a winter skin tone. Invest in a good self tanner and you’ll get as bronzed as a beach bunny without any of the risk. Here, we list 5 of the best.
1) Neutrogena Instant Bronze, Deep
A sunless tanner and instant bronzer in one product. Put the cream on for an instant bronze color with the actual tan setting in 30 minutes. The bronze tint helps insure an even application since you can see where the cream is as you put it on. The fast dry formula allows you to dress within 5 minutes of application. Comes in medium and deep tones.
2) Environmental Shield Self Tanner
A self tanner with SPF protection. This self tanner sets in 10-15 minutes with the tan showing up within 2 hours. Perfect for a day at the beach as it offers sun protection as well as a safe tan. Warning: you can not swim until the tan has shown up or you risk washing away the self tanner and/or leaving streaks.
3) Clinique Self-Tanning Body Mist
If even application is a problem for you, or if you always seem to get a darker tan on the palms if your hands than anywhere else, this is the self tanner for you. Spray it on, rub it in and wash your hands to avoid the tell-tale “orange palm”. This spray smells great and sets fast so you can get dressed quickly.
4) Clarins Instant Self Tanning Gel
Plant botanicals make this one of the best smelling self tanners on the market. The tinted gel allows you to see where the tan will appear and the bronze tint is very close to the color of the end tan. The gel won’t clog pores, dries quickly and is easy to apply.
5) Bain de Soleil Streakguarde
Aside from uneven application, streaks are one of the biggest problems with self tanning. This inexpensive self tanner is formulated to eliminate the streak problem while leaving behind a beautiful bronzed color. Won’t clog pores. This gel has a coconut scent that is reminicent of the beach. Available in medium, dark, and deep dark.