Best Fake Tan Products in the UK: Top Picks & How to Apply for a Flawless Glow
Looking for the best fake tan in the UK? Whether you're after a natural sun-kissed glow, a deep bronze tan, or a streak-free self-tan for sensitive skin, we've reviewed the top-rated fake tans available at Medino to help you choose the perfect one. Plus, we’ll show you how to apply fake tan properly, avoid patchiness, and pick the right colour for your skin tone.
Best Fake Tan Products on the Market
1. Bondi Sands Self Tanning Foam – Light/Medium
- Skin type: Fair to medium
- Texture: Lightweight foam
- Best for: Natural golden glow
- Customer rating: ★★★★☆ (4.6/5, over 3,900 reviews on Google)
This Bondi Sands formula dries quickly and delivers a streak-free tan that lasts up to 7 days. Perfect for those wanting a natural-looking fake tan without orange undertones.
2. Bondi Sands Self Tanning Foam – Dark
- Skin type: Medium to olive
- Texture: Buildable foam
- Best for: Rich, deep bronze
- Patchiness: Low, especially with 2 coats
This product is a go-to for those who want a deep tan that fades evenly. It’s hydrating, smells like summer, and provides professional-level results from home.
3. Green People Self Tan Lotion
- Skin type: Sensitive, eczema-prone
- Texture: Creamy lotion
- Best for: Subtle, organic glow
An eco-friendly fake tan made from natural ingredients. It’s great for dry and sensitive skin and offers a very gentle tan that develops over 8 hours.
4. MooGoo Natural Tanning Mousse
- Skin type: Sensitive
- Texture: Fluffy mousse
- Best for: Gentle, buildable tan
A mild, fragrance-free formula that’s perfect for people who experience irritation from conventional self-tanners. Comes with a mitt and leaves a subtle, even colour.
How to Apply Fake Tan for Best Results
Follow these simple steps for a streak-free, even tan every time:
- Prep the skin
- Exfoliate 24 hours before
- Avoid moisturisers just before application
- Apply light lotion to elbows, knees, hands, and feet
- Use a mitt
- Apply your self-tan using a tanning mitt in sweeping motions
- Start from the legs and work upwards
- Blend carefully at wrists and ankles
- Let it develop
- Wait 4–8 hours depending on the product
- Avoid water, sweat, or tight clothes during development
- Maintain your tan
- Moisturise daily
- Pat dry after showers
- Avoid harsh exfoliants
How to Pick the Right Fake Tan Colour
Choosing the right fake tan shade is key to getting the most natural result.
| Skin Tone | Best Shade Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Very fair | Gradual tanners or Light/Medium foams |
| Fair to medium | Light/Medium or medium guide-tint |
| Olive or deeper | Dark foams or liquids |
| Sensitive skin | Organic or fragrance-free options |
For more advice or help picking the right product for your skin type, check out the full range of fake tans at Medino.
