Labor Day is six weeks out so there’s still plenty of time to get your faux glow on. These days we're all about innovative formulas that take your tanning to the next level, and here are three that we can’t stop thinking about as we head into the homestretch of summer.
St. Tropez In Shower Gradual Tan
Our first foray into in-shower tanning was with Josie Maran’s now-unavailable product. While it was great in concept, the foaming formula had to be applied with a shower pouf, and it was so tinted that it made a big old mess in the shower. Needless to say after much initial excitement, we lost interest after just a few uses.
We decided to revisit this tanning approach when St. Tropez launched their version about a month ago, and boy, what an improvement. Slathering on this white cream is a breeze, and it somehow manages to stay put on wet skin. After applying a layer, simply keep yourself occupied for three minutes and rinse it off, taking care to pat my skin dry rather than rubbing. The only downside about this product is that it’s a gradual tanner, and you may have to use it for a few days straight to see any color payoff. But with that said, it’s a real time saver and we have yet to experience any streaks or mishaps.
Svelta Tan Skin-Perfecting Self-Tanner
Packed with plenty of naturally derived good-for-your-skin ingredients (such as aloe vera, camu camu, green tea leaf extract and sweet almond oil), this tinted self-tanning lotion is the bomb. The instant color is gorgeous (and slightly sparkly) and resulting faux glow is deep and long lasting.
Marula Pure Beauty Oil Bronzing Self-Tan Marula Oil
If you like facial oil and you like facial self-tanners, this product gives you the benefits of both in one. Its base of fast-absorbing, antioxidant-rich marula oil helps shield skin from environmental damage and leaves skin soft, smooth and hydrated—and the subtle tint gives you an instant sun-kissed appearance and deeper color with repeated applications. Full disclosure: We have not tried this yet, but we'll let you know when we do!