Have you ever seen a spray tan that looked a little… off? Maybe it was a strange shade of orange, or perhaps it was streaky and uneven. It’s a common sight, and it makes choosing a fake spray tan a little tricky, doesn’t it?
We all want that healthy, sun-kissed glow, but the fear of ending up with a less-than-perfect tan can be a real worry. There are so many different brands and types of spray tans out there, it can feel overwhelming trying to pick the best one. You want to look good, not like you’ve been tangoed!
But don’t worry! This post is here to help. We’ll dive into what makes a spray tan look amazing and how to avoid those common mistakes. By the end, you’ll know exactly what to look for so you can get a beautiful, natural-looking tan every time.
Our Top 5 Fake Spray Tan Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
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Body Drench QuickTan Instant Self Tanner Bronzing Spray | 8.8/10 | Check Price |
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b.tan Self Tanner Bronzing Mist | 9.0/10 | Check Price |
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L’Oreal Paris Sublime Bronze Self Tanning Mist | 9.0/10 | Check Price |
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St.Tropez Self Tan Purity Bronzing Water Face Mist | 9.2/10 | Check Price |
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b.tan Violet Self Tanner Kit | 8.9/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Fake Spray Tan Detailed Reviews
1. Body Drench QuickTan Instant Self Tanner Bronzing Spray
Rating: 9.3/10
Dreaming of a beautiful, sun-kissed glow without the sun? The Body Drench QuickTan Instant Self Tanner Bronzing Spray is your secret weapon for a flawless tan at home. This spray gives you a gorgeous medium to dark tan that looks like you just stepped off a beach vacation. It’s easy to use and works for everyone, no matter your skin type.
What We Like:
- Instant Glow: Get a sunny look right away. The spray dries fast and gives you a natural medium/dark tan.
- Easy Application: The special 360° nozzle sprays everywhere, even in tricky spots. This means no more missed areas or streaks!
- See Where You Spray: The light color in the spray shows you exactly where you’re applying it. You can control your tan perfectly.
- Develops Naturally: Your tan gets deeper over 3-5 hours, looking totally natural. It fades away smoothly too.
- Keeps Skin Soft: It has ingredients that moisturize your skin. Your tan will be smooth and shiny, not dry or itchy.
What Could Be Improved:
- Scent: Some users mention a slight self-tanner smell as it develops.
- Color Intensity: While it’s medium/dark, very fair skin tones might want to test a small area first to ensure the depth of color is what they desire.
This spray offers a convenient way to achieve a beautiful tan. It’s a great option for quick, at-home bronzing.
2. b.tan Self Tanner Bronzing Mist
Rating: 9.3/10
Dreaming of a deep, sun-kissed glow without the sun? The b.tan Self Tanner Bronzing Mist promises a fast, dark tan in just one hour. This spray is designed for your face and body, and it’s made with good-for-you ingredients. Plus, it’s kind to animals!
What We Like:
- It gives you the darkest tan possible for serious glow-getters.
- The spray mist makes tanning super easy – just spray and get dark!
- You get a great tan in only 1 hour, but you can leave it on longer for even darker results.
- It’s made in the USA with high-quality ingredients.
- It’s vegan, cruelty-free, and free from yucky stuff like parabens.
- There’s no “fake tan” smell.
What Could Be Improved:
- For the best results, you need to apply moisturizer to certain spots like elbows and knees beforehand.
- You might need a tanning mitt to get the smoothest, most even finish.
This b.tan bronzing mist is a fantastic option for anyone wanting a quick, deep tan. It’s a straightforward way to achieve a beautiful glow at home.
3. L’Oreal Paris Sublime Bronze Self Tanning Mist
Rating: 9.0/10
Get a beautiful, sun-kissed glow without the sun’s harmful rays with the L’Oreal Paris Sublime Bronze Self-Tanning Mist. This spray tan in a can delivers a natural-looking medium tan that develops quickly. It’s designed for easy, at-home application, giving you that salon-quality airbrush finish.
What We Like:
- Achieve a natural-looking medium tan without sun exposure.
- It’s streak-free and dries fast, so you don’t need to rub it in.
- The 360-degree applicator sprays continuously for even coverage.
- Enjoy salon-inspired airbrush results right at home.
- The fine mist applies smoothly and evenly.
- Your sunless tan develops in just 2-3 hours.
What Could Be Improved:
- For the best results, you need to apply it to clean, exfoliated skin.
- To keep your tan looking great, you’ll need to reapply it 1-2 times a week.
This self-tanning mist is a convenient way to get a gorgeous tan. It makes achieving a beautiful glow at home simple and effective.
4. St.Tropez Self Tan Purity Bronzing Water Face Mist
Rating: 8.9/10
Achieve a beautiful, sun-kissed look year-round with the St. Tropez Self Tan Purity Bronzing Water Face Mist. This mist is designed to give your face a natural golden glow and a refreshing boost of hydration. It’s super light, dries fast, and the color lasts for days. Plus, it’s packed with good-for-your-skin ingredients like hyaluronic acid and antioxidants.
What We Like:
- It gives a natural, sunkissed glow that looks great.
- The mist is very fine, making it super easy to apply without streaks.
- It dries quickly and doesn’t leave that typical self-tan smell.
- The formula is hydrating and includes hyaluronic acid and antioxidants.
- You can use it with or without makeup for a healthy-looking tan.
- It’s a vegan, cruelty-free product, so you can feel good about using it.
- The glow develops naturally over 4-8 hours.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might prefer a darker shade option.
- The mist might not be enough for those who like a very intense tan on their face.
This face mist is a fantastic way to get a healthy glow while taking care of your skin. It’s a simple, effective, and guilt-free way to brighten your complexion.
5. b.tan Violet Self Tanner Kit
Rating: 9.4/10
Get ready to glow with the b.tan Violet Self Tanner Kit! This bundle is designed to give you a beautiful, dark tan in just one hour. It comes with a soft mitt for easy application. You’ll love the bronzed look it creates, and there’s no yucky orange color or fake tan smell. Plus, it’s vegan!
What We Like:
- It gives a gorgeous, dark tan.
- The tan develops quickly – in just one hour!
- You get a streak-free, natural-looking glow.
- It smells good, not like a typical self-tanner.
- The violet undertones help prevent any orange hues.
- The included mitt makes application simple and even.
- It’s a vegan product, which is great for conscious consumers.
- The mousse formula is easy to spread.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 6.7 fl oz bottle might run out quickly for frequent tanners.
- While it says “no fake tan smell,” some users might still detect a slight scent.
This kit makes achieving a stunning tan at home super easy. You’ll be ready for anything with this beautiful bronzed look.
Get Your Glow On: The Ultimate Fake Spray Tan Buying Guide
Want to get that sun-kissed look without the sun’s harmful rays? Fake spray tans are a fantastic way to achieve a beautiful bronze. But with so many options out there, how do you pick the best one? This guide will help you choose the perfect product for your needs.
What to Look For: Key Features of a Great Fake Spray Tan
When you’re shopping for a fake spray tan, keep these important features in mind:
1. Shade and Tone
- Natural Look: You want a tan that looks like you’ve been on a tropical vacation, not like you’ve been painted orange. Look for shades described as “natural,” “medium,” “deep,” or “express.”
- Cool vs. Warm Tones: Some tans have more golden, warm undertones, while others have cooler, olive undertones. Consider your natural skin tone. If you have pinkish skin, cooler tones might look more natural. If you have yellow undertones, warmer tones often work best.
2. Application Method
- Mousse: This is a popular choice. Mousses are lightweight and easy to spread. They often develop quickly.
- Lotion/Cream: These are more moisturizing and can be good for dry skin. They might take a bit longer to develop.
- Spray (Aerosol Can): These are quick and convenient. You spray them on, but you need to be careful to get an even coat.
- Wipes: Perfect for touch-ups or for beginners. They offer precise application.
3. Development Time
- Express Tans: These develop in as little as 1-4 hours. They are great if you need a quick glow for a special event.
- Gradual Tans: These build color over several days. They offer more control and a very natural look.
4. Longevity
- How long does the tan last? Most last 5-7 days, but some can go longer.
Important Ingredients to Consider
The ingredients in your fake tan matter. They affect how it looks, how it feels on your skin, and how long it lasts.
- DHA (Dihydroxyacetone): This is the main ingredient that makes your skin turn brown. It’s a sugar that reacts with the dead skin cells on your skin’s surface. It’s safe for topical use.
- Erythrulose: Sometimes used with DHA, it can create a deeper, longer-lasting tan.
- Moisturizers: Look for ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, or hyaluronic acid. These keep your skin hydrated and help the tan fade evenly.
- Natural Extracts: Aloe vera, chamomile, or green tea can soothe your skin.
Factors That Make a Fake Tan Better or Worse
Some things can make your fake tan experience amazing, while others can ruin it.
Factors That Improve Quality:
- Even Application: Using a tanning mitt or glove helps you spread the product smoothly.
- Exfoliation: Always exfoliate your skin before tanning. This removes dead skin cells so the tan applies evenly.
- Moisturizing: Moisturize dry areas like knees, elbows, and ankles before tanning. This prevents them from getting too dark.
- Good Quality Product: A well-formulated tan will have a pleasant scent and a color that looks natural.
Factors That Reduce Quality:
- Patchy Application: If you miss spots or don’t blend well, you’ll get streaks.
- Water Exposure: Avoid showering, swimming, or heavy sweating until your tan has fully developed.
- Harsh Soaps: Using very drying soaps can make your tan fade faster.
- Friction: Tight clothing can rub off the tan.
Your Experience: User Experience and Use Cases
Fake spray tans are for everyone! They are perfect for:
- Special Occasions: Weddings, parties, or vacations where you want to look your best.
- Everyday Confidence: Some people love the boost of confidence a healthy-looking tan gives them.
- Pale Skin: If you struggle to get a natural tan from the sun, fake tans are a great alternative.
- Avoiding Sun Damage: They provide a safe way to get a tanned look without the risks of UV rays.
Using a fake spray tan is usually straightforward. You’ll apply the product, let it dry, and then let it develop over a few hours. The result is a beautiful, bronzed glow!
Fake Spray Tan Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the main ingredient in fake spray tans that makes my skin brown?
A: The main ingredient is DHA (Dihydroxyacetone). It makes the top layer of your skin turn brown.
Q: Can I use a fake spray tan if I have sensitive skin?
A: Yes, many fake tans are made for sensitive skin. Look for products with natural ingredients like aloe vera and avoid ones with strong perfumes.
Q: How do I prepare my skin before applying a fake spray tan?
A: You should exfoliate your skin and moisturize dry areas like your knees and elbows.
Q: What is the best way to apply a fake spray tan to avoid streaks?
A: Use a tanning mitt or glove to apply the product evenly and blend it well.
Q: How long does a fake spray tan usually last?
A: Most fake spray tans last about 5 to 7 days.
Q: Can I swim or go to the gym after applying a fake spray tan?
A: No, you should avoid water and heavy sweating until the tan has fully developed. This is usually after several hours.
Q: What happens if I shower too soon after applying a fake spray tan?
A: Showering too soon can wash away the tan or cause it to develop unevenly, leading to streaks.
Q: How can I make my fake spray tan last longer?
A: Keep your skin moisturized and avoid harsh soaps. Gently pat your skin dry instead of rubbing after showering.
Q: Do fake spray tans smell bad?
A: Some older formulas had a distinct smell, but many newer products have pleasant scents or are fragrance-free.
Q: Can I use fake spray tan on my face?
A: Yes, but it’s best to use a product specifically made for the face, or a very light formula. Apply it carefully to avoid the eye area.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.