There’s something addictive about lying in the sun, letting its rays warm you up and tan your skin. But that vacation glow could come at a heavy price. If you expose yourself to the sun’s harmful rays without protection, you run the risk of developing skin cancer and actually causing damage to your very DNA.
But what if you want that enviable sun-kissed look without the danger? Yes, sun protection products are an absolute must in summer or winter, but what about that healthy glow?
Enter self-tanners, which experts say cut out 40 percent of the sun’s UV rays. However, it can be difficult to work out which self-tanner to choose. After all, there are so many out there, and some of them work poorly and have an unpleasant odor. Never fear. We’ve found the best in self-tanners to give you that healthy, natural tan we all want.
Jergens Natural Glow 3 Days to Glow Moisturizer
If you want a subtle tan that develops gradually, look no further than this drugstore staple that promises that you’ll be one shade darker after three days of use — all without a minute in the sun.
Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Glow Pad Gradual Glow
Another gradual tanner, these easy-to-use, quick-drying wipes add gradual color and glow to your face. It’s so quick and convenient, so you’ll always look tanned and healthy.
Lancome Flash Bronzer
This self-tanning lotion from Lancome will leave you glowing in the best way possible. It’s quick-drying and gives you even color across the body without streaks and residue on your clothes.
James Read Self Tan Express Bronzing Mousse
In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a tan courtesy of this fun mousse formula that also hydrates with jojoba seed oil, aloe vera and hyaluronic acid.
Kate Somerville Somerville360 Body Tanning Towelettes
These ultra-convenient self-tanning towelettes transform your skin color in just 2-4 hours. They’re great for faking a great tan before you hit the beach.
Neutrogena Micro-Mist Airbrush Sunless Tan
If you hate the thought of streaky self-tanners, why not try an airbrush spray like this one? It allows you to easily achieve even application, getting you up to two shades darker. It can also be sprayed upside down, which makes it very convenient for those difficult-to-reach areas.
St. Tropez Gradual Tan in Shower Lotion
Incorporate this brilliant product into your shower routine, and you’ll have the perfect tan within three days. You apply it in the shower and then rinse it off after three minutes. That’s it. And the almond oil in the product leaves your skin enviably soft and moisturized.
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