Not a lover of fake tan? Whether it’s the overpowering scent or the inevitable streaky patch you didn’t quite get right, there are other ways to make getting the glow that bit easier. From tanning drops you simply add to your skincare to the latest bronzers that guarantee a flawless finish, here’s how to look sun-kissed without fake tan...
Bronze Up
A sweep of bronzer can enhance a dull, tired complexion and adds an instant sun-kissed glow. Remember the golden rule and stick to shades that are two or three darker than your skin tone for bronzing that enhances and flatters rather than flattens and drains – as a rule of thumb, fair skin types should look for honey-coloured shades, medium skin tones should seek out rose gold and golds while darker complexions should try amber and tawny colours. Using a large powder brush (crucial for a natural-looking glow), try to mimic the look of a genuine tan, touching on the bridge of the nose, tops of the cheeks and a hint across the forehead.
Our top tip? In the same way you take foundation below the jawline to avoid any stark lines, blend your bronzer below your jawline into your neck for a seamless look.
Get The Glow
Proof you don’t need a harsh fake tan to get a convincing glow, the latest facial formulas are brimming with new-generation technology to make tanning your face totally fool-proof. Charlotte Tilbury’s innovative Overnight Bronze & Glow Mask, £38, does exactly what it says, imparting a buildable glow as you sleep. A Model Recommends’ Ruth Crilly swears by Sisley’s luxe Hydrating Facial Skincare, £88, which she claims is the ultimate treat to perk up skin and even allowed her to forgo tinted moisturiser. Meanwhile, those with sensitive skin should make a bee-line for Dr. Hauschka’s Bronzing Tint, £28.50, a 100% organic and natural formula.
Add A Little Lustre
Opt for natural-looking bronze, brown and gold shadows on your eyelids and blend into your crease to soften your features and complement a glowing look. We love Bobbi Brown’s Cream Shadow in Beach Bronze, £21 – a classic for creating sheen and adding warmth to the complexion. Finish with lipstick or gloss in a natural-looking peach or bronze shade that almost matches your lip colour; be sure to avoid darker colours as these can make you look paler. Laura Mercier’s Soleil Lip Lacquer in Risqué, £22, is a gorgeous pink that will make paler complexions pop.
Go Gradual
There’s only one thing worse than the great pasty-limbed unveil on the first day of summer, and that’s baring a Tango-orange body. Avoid anything too stark by choosing a gradual tan, whether it’s part of your holiday prep or just for a hint of honey-toned colour at home. Clarins’ clever tanning drops can be added to your regular body moisturiser (they’re a beauty editor favourite) and though Elemis’ Gradual Tanner, £35, may be on the pricey side, its heavenly scent masks any giveaway biscuit aromas.
Fake An Instant Glow
If one of the reasons you shy away from fake tan is the smell and mess (white sheets are a no-go), invest in an instant tanner for a speedy glow. We give our full marks to Vita Liberata’s Body Blur, £29.50, which is completely transfer-free, lasts up to 24 hours and covers imperfections and blemishes in one fell swoop.
