While we’re big believers in sensible sun exposure, there are plenty of ways to achieve a sun-kissed look without chasing a tan.
From skin tints and bronzing drops to gradual self-tans, we’ve rounded up the best options to help you get your glow on.
Our guide to the best products for a sun-kissed glow
Bronzers
The glow you’re dreaming of could already be sitting in your makeup bag. A sweep of bronzer across the forehead, cheekbones and collarbones can quickly recreate the warmth that sunshine naturally gives us.
For a flattering finish, blend upwards to add definition. Pair with a touch of your favourite blusher to keep skin looking fresh, rather than flat.
The best bronzers for midlife skin
Studio10 Perfect Bronze Glow-plexion, £26
The buildable, silky-smooth formula blends and buffs seamlessly for an ultra-natural tan all year round, while warm gold undertones leave skin radiant and glowing.
A light, silky formula that’s easy to blend and build. The unique dual-ended packaging allows for easy multitasking.
Laura Mercier, Tinted Blur Balm, £39
This lightweight, balm-to-powder blurs texture and is available in a wide range of shades and undertones.
delilah Sunset Matte Bronzer, £39
The velvety smooth matte formula can be used to add subtle definition or dusted where the sun naturally touches your face for a healthy glow.
Indie brand REESON gives a bouncy balm formula with hyaluronic acid and jojoba seed oil. Expect a velvety satin finish for a modern update to the classic cream bronzer.
Lumene, Liquid Bronzer, £23.90
Lightweight, buildable and with a touch of luminescence, this skincare-forward formula is great for drier skin types.
Bronzing drops
Beyond makeup, bronzing drops are a brilliant middle ground before getting into self-tan territory. Mixed into moisturiser or worn alone, they create a subtle, customisable glow. Many formulas deliver hydrating skincare ingredients, too.
They’re quick to use, easy to remove and perfect for dipping a toe into the world of faux glow.
The best bronzing drops for midlife skin
Evolve Sunless Glow Tanning Drops, £24
Organic facial tanning drops you can blend with your regular moisturiser to build a natural-looking, streak-free tan and a radiant, glowing complexion. Infused with hyaluronic acid to keep skin soft and supple.
Weleda, Sunkissed Bronzing Face Serum Drops, £12.95
A true bronze tone with added luminescence; its slightly thicker texture makes it a seamless addition to skincare. Use alone for a deeper tone. Its quick-drying formula works well under makeup, too.
By Terry, Tea To Tan Golden Glow, £42
This illuminating ‘aqua-serum’ bronzer creates a super-blendable, sheer yet buildable glow that’s long-wearing, lightweight, and hydrating without stickiness or oiliness.
Self-tanners
If you’re after an all-over glow that won’t disappear in the shower, self-tan is the answer. While it requires a little more preparation, today’s formulas are easier to use than ever.
Most self-tans rely on DHA (dihydroxyacetone), a sugar-derived ingredient that reacts with the surface of our skin to create colour.
“The percentage of DHA determines the depth of the colour,” explains James Read, founder of Self Glow by James Read. “If you’re new to self-tan, it’s best to start with a lower percentage, around 4%, to achieve a more subtle, natural glow.”
Many formulas also contain erythrulose, another naturally derived ingredient that helps create a more even, longer-lasting result. Hydrating ingredients are equally important, helping self-tan develop more smoothly and evenly.
Choose the right undertone
Just as we’d match foundation to our skin tone, choosing the right self-tan undertone can make all the difference.
“The right undertone helps create the most natural-looking result,” says James.
Generally speaking:
- Cool or pink skin tones suit violet or green-based tans.
- Olive skin tones often suit yellow undertones.
- Warmer complexions are usually complemented by red-based formulas.
Don’t worry if it takes a little trial and error. Testing a formula at home is often the best way to discover what works for our skin.
Some self-tans also contain a temporary guide colour, which washes away during the first shower.
“It’s especially helpful for beginners,” says James. “You can see exactly where you’ve applied the product, making it much easier to achieve an even finish.”
How to get a flawless finish in 5 steps
- Avoid heavy oils. Body oils can create a barrier that prevents self-tan from developing evenly.
- Hydrate well. Well-moisturised skin creates a smoother, more even finish. Pay particular attention to drier areas like elbows, knees and ankles.
- Watch for transfer. Until we’ve showered off the guide colour, self-tan can transfer onto clothing and bedding.
- Remove excess product. After application, wipe around the eyebrows and clean the nails to avoid darker patches.
- Wear loose clothing. Tight clothing and friction can create uneven development, so choose loose, comfortable clothing while your tan develops.
The best self-tanners for midlife skin
Caudalie, Self-Tan Sun Drops ,£19
Unlike bronzing drops, they create long-lasting, buildable colour that won’t wash off. Add to skincare for a uniform application. A lightweight, streak-free formula is enriched with organic grape water to hydrate and support a balanced skin microbiome.
Self Glow by James Read, Golden Days, £39
This ultra-fine mist makes application a doddle, even without a guide tone. Quick to absorb, it fits seamlessly into your skincare routine.
St. Tropez, Purity Vitamins Bronzing Water Mist, £24
Infused with hyaluronic acid, green mandarin extract, and vitamins C and D, this fast-absorbing light body mist won’t leave behind any stickiness.
Evolve Sunless Glow 3-in-1 Gradual Tan, £26
A nourishing, streak-free tanning lotion that delivers a natural-looking golden glow with a fresh, subtle scent. Enhanced with carob fruit extract to boost melanin production, keeping you bronzed for longer.
Coco & Eve Sunny Honey Bali Bronzing Foam, £26
A quick-drying express tan packed with hydrating fruit extracts.
A professional spray tan
If applying self-tan feels daunting, a professional spray tan takes away much of the guesswork.
I try my first express spray tan with St Tropez.
At my patch test, I’m told to prepare my skin in advance: hair removal, a good exfoliation, and a slather of lotion to ensure my skin is smooth and evenly hydrated.
At the salon, the therapist applies lotion to drier areas like my knees and elbows. I then stand, sans clothing (except for a disposable hairnet, optional knickers, and stickers to protect the soles of my feet), in a ventilated pod where I’m airbrushed with an express tanning liquid.
Next, it’s over to me. With just three hours needed for the express tan to develop, all I need to do is stay dry and wear loose clothing. I’m pleased to note there is no strong ‘biscuity’ scent either.
After the first shower, the guide colour rinses away, while the DHA continues developing over the next 24 hours. The result is a natural-looking glow that can last around a week with regular moisturising and gentle exfoliation.
Honestly, call me a convert.
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