Self Tanning Lotion

Self Tanning Lotions and Tanning Moisturisers

Self tanning lotion goes on like your usual body moisturiser, and the colour builds gradually over a few days. Apply it daily for a deeper tone, then less often to keep it. Choose a lightweight everyday formula or one with a touch of shimmer.

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Self Tanning Lotion

About Self Tanning Lotion

How to Choose a Self Tanning Lotion

Think about how quickly you want colour. A gradual lotion builds over a few days and is easy to keep even, while a mousse gives faster results. Then look at the finish. Coco & Eve is a lightweight everyday lotion, and Bondi Sands Illuminator adds a little shimmer.

Getting an Even Finish

Exfoliate the day before and moisturise any dry patches first. A tanning mitt makes it easier to blend, especially on your back and shoulders. Wash your hands after you apply, and give your skin time to dry before you dress.

Not Sure Which Self Tanning Lotion Is Right for You?

Want advice tailored to your skin? Start with our free online skin test. You can also contact our expert team for one-to-one advice, and read our blog for expert tips on building a routine that supports your skin goals.

Self Tanning Lotion That Builds Colour Gradually

A self tanning lotion works like your normal body moisturiser, except the colour develops slowly as you use it. One layer won't change your skin much, which makes it a forgiving place to start. Apply it daily until you like the shade, then drop to every other day to keep it.

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Coco & Eve and Bondi Sands Self Tanning Lotions

Coco & Eve is the one for a Bali inspired glow. Its gradual tanning lotion has dual hyaluronic acids and a Coco Mango scent. Bondi Sands Illuminator adds shimmer pigments, so you get a little radiance on top of the tan.

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Self Tanning Lotion for Fair Skin

Fair skin shows colour quickly, so the slow build of a lotion helps. Start with a thin layer every other day, and only go daily once you've seen how it develops. Bondi Sands says its lotion suits all skin tones, but patch test first whatever your shade.

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Expert Tip for Self Tanning Lotion

"Exfoliate the day before you start, then moisturise dry areas like knees and elbows first. They soak up tan and go dark fastest. Apply the lotion with your palms in long strokes, then wash your hands straight away. Wait until your skin is completely dry before you get dressed. A self tanning lotion won't protect you from the sun, so your sunscreen still goes on every morning."

- Kimberley, Clinic and Customer Experience Manager.

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Top Fake Tanning Tips

Fake tan going patchy? Our guide covers how to prep your skin the day before, and why exfoliating matters so much.

read the tips

Bestselling Self Tanning Lotions That Work Like Your Body Moisturiser

Our top self tanning lotions, from a Bali inspired glow to a touch of shimmer.
Coco & Eve Gradual Tanning LotionCoco & Eve Gradual Tanning Lotion
Coco & Eve Gradual Tanning Lotion

€18,95
Bondi Sands Gradual Tan Lotion Illuminator 150mlBondi Sands Gradual Tan Lotion Illuminator 150ml
Bondi Sands Gradual Tan Lotion Illuminator 150ml

€9,95

Frequently Asked Questions

What is self tanning lotion?

Self tanning lotion is a body lotion with a tanning ingredient in it, usually DHA. It reacts with the surface of your skin to add colour. Most of the lotions here are gradual, so the tan builds a little with each application.

How do you apply self tanning lotion?

Exfoliate the day before, then apply to clean, dry skin. Smooth it on in circular motions or long strokes, wash your hands straight afterwards and wait until your skin is touch dry before dressing. Patch test before your first use.

How long does self tanning lotion take to work?

Gradually. Coco & Eve suggests applying daily until you reach the colour you want, then every other day to maintain it. Bondi Sands suggests daily use for a golden tan. Leave the colour to develop before you judge the shade.

What's the difference between self tanning lotion, cream and moisturiser?

Mostly the name. Lotions tend to be lighter and creams a bit richer, and a tanning moisturiser is simply a lotion meant to feel like your everyday body moisturiser. Check the pack for how much colour it gives and how often to use it.

Can I use self tanning lotion on my face?

Check the label first. The lotions here are made for the body, and a face needs a different formula. If you want a face tan, tanning drops go into the moisturiser you already use, so you control how much colour you add.

Does self tanning lotion protect you from the sun?

No. Self tanning lotion colours your skin, but it doesn't contain SPF and won't protect you from sunburn. Bondi Sands says this on its pack. Keep wearing your sunscreen every day.

Which self tanning lotion is best for fair skin?

There isn't one best lotion, but a gradual formula is a good place to start. The colour builds slowly, so you can stop when you like the shade. Bondi Sands says its Illuminator suits all skin tones. Whichever you pick, start with a thin layer every other day.

Can I use self tanning lotion on sensitive skin?

Be careful. Bondi Sands says not to apply its lotion to damaged, inflamed or sensitive skin. Patch test any self tan on a small area first and wait 24 hours. Stop using it if your skin reacts.