Self-Tanner: Which is the Best?
Julie Schott,SELF magazine
When it comes to getting a believable sun-kissed tan from a bottle, there's a lot of room for error. From dark streaks to oompa loompa tones, the defining traits of a self-tanning job gone wrong are glaringly obvious.
The best formulas combine quick, easy application and a natural glow with long-lasting results. So how do we separate the terrible tan formulas from the truly authentic-looking ones? It's time for a self-tan test-off! I took one for the team and tried four leading self-tanners, applying each one to a different limb. The final result? An ombre body - I'm serious! -- and a clear favorite.
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Dior Bronze Auto Bronzant Self-Tanning Cream
Designed to impart a gradual, natural-looking tan, this caramel-colored gel smoothes on easily and melts into the skin within seconds, leaving behind none of the telltale smell associated with most self-tanners. After just one application, I'm left with a soft even veil of color and not a streak in sight.
Rodial Brazilian Tan Dark
I'm instantly drawn to any beauty product with "brazilian" in the name - is there anything sexier? - and this lightly pigmented gel did not disappoint. I put it on sort of haphazardly, as I would body lotion, and it dried down almost instantly, leaving behind zero sticky residue. Hours later I saw a slight deepening in color and no splotches despite my messy application style.
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St. Tropez Bronzing Gel
Those looking for an instant tan and a darker finish will appreciate this rich bronzing formula. The deeply pigmented gel means streaks are easy to avoid, but be sure to leave time for drying. My skin still felt sticky long after application, a worthwhile concession for immediate results and gorgeous color.
Kate Somerville 360 Body Self Tanning Towelette
Think of these sunless-tanning towelettes as bronzer for beginners. These foolproof wipes come packaged in travel-friendly individual sachets and unfold to the size of a giant wet wipe, large enough to cover skin from head to toe. The results after one application weren't exactly dramatic, but I noticed a subtle golden glow.
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Bottom Line: When it came time to even out my multi-hued tan, I chose St. Tropez's Bronzing Gel -- the fastest acting and longest lasting of the bunch.
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