Before I became a beauty editor, the mere mention of self-tanners or bronzers would strike fear into my heart. I had had way too many bad experiences that left me with hideous, streaky and unnaturally orange-looking skin. But thankfully, over the years the formulas have got a lot better, and far easier to use. I still do err on the side of caution when using self tanners, preferring those with lighter colour, that you can build on application after application.
Below are my favourites for face and body:
Clarins Self Tanning Milky-Lotion Face & Body R345 (BUY HERE) is a favourite, simply because it really is fool proof. It’s a bit like a gradual tanner, slowly building light, realistic looking colour after each application. I love how effortlessly it glides on, and how quickly it absorbs. It contains aloe vera gel and fig extract that hydrates the skin. I also find the delicious fig fragrance makes the product even more appealing. For the body, I apply it much the same as I do my regular moisturiser, using light, upward sweeping movements. I have to be honest; I haven’t tried it on my face, as I prefer using bronzers that wash off. I’m still a tad bit nervous of a semi permanent facial self-tanner (silly, I know).
Benefit Hoola Zero Tanlines (R475) is the perfect product for when you’re needing instant colour. It is not a self tanner as such; rather it’s an instant bronzer that washes off. I love the realistic looking, light veil of colour that it leaves and the fact that it doesn’t have that typical self-tanner smell. The product has a gel-like consistency and is quite lightweight, without being tacky, so you can build up layers evenly. You apply it using the buffer sponge applicator (contained in the lid of the product), which I have to admit, ensures a very smooth and streak-free application. Simply squeeze some gel onto the sponge, and apply in broad, circular strokes. I have a B type skin colour (tans, but sometimes burns) and found I needed about three applications to get the colour I desired. I would recommend washing the applicator after each use and allowing it to dry completely before putting it back into the lid. You’ll find Benefit products at selected Edgars and Red Square stores.
BEST BUDGET SELF TANNER FOR BODY
Caribbean Tan Tanning Spritzer (R99.95) is my top recommendation if you’re looking for a BRILLIANT budget self tanner that gives you a rich, deep and instant tan. I kid you not when I say I’ve been using this for close on 9 years, and every single person I recommend it to raves about it. I like the Caribbean Tan brand, as you can select the appropriate shade for your particular colouring (A = fair complexions, B = medium complexions or C = dark complexions). I’ve always used a B and time and time again, the colour is PERFECT! The formula also comes with a handy mitt that really ensures a perfect, streak free application. I’m not gonna lie, application can get messy – so best apply this outside or in a confined space that you can easily clean, like the shower. The formula leaves the skin immediately bronzed and develops over a 6-8 hour period. Also, because it’s water soluble, it dries super fast (5 min’s max). You’ll find the Caribbean Tan range at Clicks, Dis-Chem & takealot.com
FOR THE FACE
The Body Shop Drops Of Sun Glow Creator (R250) – BUY HERE is a godsend because it’s so easy to use. All you need to do is add a drop (or two – depending on the intensity you’re after) to your moisturiser or foundation to give your skin a healthy, very natural looking glow. The liquid gel is shimmer free and blends effortlessly. Simple, easy and effective – just the way I like my beauty products.
Benefit Dew The Hoola (R445) You can apply this facial bronzer one of two ways: either with your hands, or with a contour brush. You can also either use it on bare skin, or over make-up. The first time I tried it was on bare skin (after moisturising), using my hands. When I initially began applying it, I thought it was a little dark. However, once blending it in, it left my complexion with a very light, natural-looking sun-kissed look. I used about 3 pumps of the liquid for a full face and neck application.
You could also apply it just to areas the sun would naturally hit – such as cheeks and brow bones and the bridge of the nose. It’s best to do this using a contour brush. Pump a bit of product onto the back of your hand, and using the brush, apply the product just under your cheekbones and onto brow bones. I also like applying a little along the bridge of my nose. I then use my Beauty Blender to smooth out any excess product. Remember, go easy with the product; want it to look like you’ve spent the day outside, and a little sun has gently kissed your face.
Avon Glow Bronzing Multi Stick in Nude (R99.90) actually really surprised me because, to be honest, I wasn’t expecting much. Now, usually when I get some sun, my skin gets a pinkish flush, and that’s exactly the colour this bronzing stick mimics. I was quite taken aback at just how natural it looks on my skin. Also, because it’s in a stick form, it’s so easy to apply. The creamy texture blends really well, and looks very sheer (so you can build up colour). The only thing I’m not mad about is the smell, which is quite artificial – but you can’t smell it once it’s on the skin. The products longevity is also impressive – about 8 hours without fading. Again, I use this on areas the sun would naturally hit. It also works well on the lips, giving them very pretty, natural looking colour. Find an Avon representative HERE
THE BEST BODY SCRUB
It’s essential to exfoliate before applying self tanner. If you don’t, you risk a streaky, uneven application. And don’t use an enzymatic exfoliator – instead, opt for a salt or sugar based scrub.
The Caribbean Tan Cinnamon & Coconut Skin Smoothing Body Exfoliator (R59.95) has been my favourite scrub for a while. Aside from it being so well priced (and smelling beyond delicious), it does a fantastic job of sloughing away dead skin cells. I apply mine to dry skin, then hop into the shower and rinse off. You’ll find the Caribbean Tan range at Clicks, Dis-Chem & takealot.com
Please leave a comment below telling me which self tanners and bronzers you use and like. I’m very interested to know.
