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Read more detail on our methodology below.
St. Tropez Luxe Whipped Creme Self Tan Tanning Mousse
Best overall fake tan
Image: Supplied/Finder
Pros
- Hydrating
- Smooth texture
Cons
- Some said it occasionally gives an orangey tint
- May not suit people sensitive to fragrances
Buy now
The St. Tropez Luxe Whipped Creme Self Tan Tanning Mousse has earned its place as the best overall fake tan in this list. With a user rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars on Chemist Warehouse, it's clear that this product is a consumer favourite.
This luxurious self-tan boasts an ultra-lightweight tinted mousse that provides an even, streak-free sun-kissed glow and comes packed with high-performing natural skincare ingredients. It has nacinamide, high molecular weight hyaluronic acid, echinacea, and vitamin E to hydrate, protect, and even out skin tone.
Some customers noted that the mousse can be difficult to blend evenly, leading to patchy results if not applied carefully. Additionally, the product has a subtle fragrance that may not be to everyone's taste. However, this self-tanning mousse's overall quality and effectiveness greatly outweigh these minor drawbacks.
St. Tropez Self Tan Express
Best express fake tan
Image: Supplied/Finder
Pros
- 3-in-1 formula
- Lets you customise the tan shade you’d get
Cons
- Some say the tan scent lingers quite long
- Not cheap
Buy now
The St. Tropez Self Tan Express is easily one of the best express fake tans available online, with a remarkable rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars on both Amazon and Chemist Warehouse.
This has an advanced 3-in-1 Express tanning mousse formula, which offers the flexibility to control the depth of your tan. Whether you're aiming for a light tan, a medium golden bronze, or a deep, dark tan to match your skin tone, this product is easy to work with.
The mousse is tinted, making it effortless to apply for natural-looking results that last a week. It's quick-drying, non-sticky, and fades evenly over time. Plus, it's 100% vegan-friendly with natural tanning actives.
Note that for some customers, the fragrance lingers longer than they'd like. A few users also found the product a bit expensive compared to similar options in the market.
Loving Tan Deluxe Gradual Tan
Best gradual fake tan
Image: Supplied/Finder
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Suitable for beginners
Cons
- Only comes in 3 shade options
- Doesn’’t offer a deeper tan compared to more traditional products
Buy now
The Loving Tan Deluxe Gradual Tan is a fantastic product that has earned a stellar 4.5 out of 5 stars on both Adore Beauty and Sephora. It's also our choice if you want a gradual fake tan.
Its lightweight formulation allows for a tan that develops gradually, making it an ideal choice for those wanting to maintain a prolonged glow. This gradual tan offers a buildable intensity over a few days, resulting in a professional-looking, streak-free finish.
You can also build a deeper tan by reapplying daily until you reach the perfect shade. Plus, its acai berry and coffee seed extract not only helps defend your tan and skin from environmental aggressors but also claims to revitalise your skin, eliminating dullness.
It comes with an instant colour guide to ensure flawless application every time. To top it off, this product pampers your skin with Shea butter's natural conditioning and hydrating properties, leaving the skin softer and smoother. Plus, it's paraben-free, alcohol-free, and cruelty-free.
However, while it claims to offer an intense tan, it may not provide the same level of colour as a traditional self-tanner. It also only comes in three shade options.
Tan-Luxe Instant Hero Self-Tan
Best instant fake tan
Image: Supplied/Finder
Pros
- Streak-free application
- Lasts up to 24 hours
Cons
- The sponge needs regular cleaning
- May not suit those looking for a more subtle tan
Buy now
The Tan-Luxe Instant Hero Self-Tan is nothing short of revolutionary when it comes to achieving that sun-kissed look instantly. Garnering 4.1 out of 5 stars on Adore Beauty and Amazon, it's a fantastic option due to its blend of instant bronzing and full coverage properties that mimic body makeup.
This product provides a buildable tan that lasts up to 24 hours, making it the perfect companion for that last-minute event or photo shoot. The quick-drying cream formula is also smooth, offering an easy application with its integrated sponge. As it hydrates the skin, expect to be left with a radiant, glowing tan. Notably, it's devoid of any streaks or the typical fake-tan smell, and it's DHA-free.
On the downside, the sponge requires frequent cleaning, so remember before purchasing the product. It also produces a deeper tan, so it may not suit those looking for a more subtle result.
St. Tropez Luxe Whipped Creme Self Tan Tanning Mousse
Best fake tan foam/mousse
Image: Supplied/Finder
Pros
- Hydrating
- Smooth texture
Cons
- Some said it occasionally gives an orangey tint
- May not suit people sensitive to fragrances
Buy now
With a 4.7 out of 5 stars rating on Chemist Warehouse, the St. Tropez Luxe Whipped Creme Self Tan Tanning Mousse is also our pick for the best mousse option.
Its superior dual tanning technology and high-performing natural skincare ingredients like niacinamide and vitamin E offer a smooth-sailing tanning experience. This ultra-lightweight tinted mousse hydrates protects, and evens skin tone, delivering a natural, streak-free, sunkissed glow that lasts all week and fades evenly. Customers have praised its luxurious texture, making it a must-have for those looking to achieve a perfect tan without harmful UV rays.
However, a few users have reported experiencing orange undertones or an oompa-loompa effect, making it important to properly exfoliate for best results. Additionally, some may find the subtle fragrance overpowering.
Tanologist Self Tan Water
Best fake tan water
Image: Supplied/Finder
Pros
- Free from irritating ingredients
- Lightweight
Cons
- Slightly difficult to apply
- Not for people with very dry skin
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For the best water option, Tanologist's Self-Tan Water is our best pick, earning a remarkable 4.3 out of 5 stars on both Amazon and The Iconic.
This multi-use mist creates a natural-looking tan for both face and body, encapsulating the epitome of effortless, at-home spray tanning. It has no colour guide to block pores, dry out the skin, or transfer onto your pristine white sheets or clothes.
The formula is free from irritating ingredients that might lead to breakouts or clogged pores. It also claims to brighten, soften, and hydrate skin with a signature trio of pink grapefruit, goji berry, and juniper.
Plus, the application process is as fast as it is mess-free. Just mist it onto the skin and blend. With 3 adaptable shades to choose from based on your desired result: light glow, medium tan, and dark bronze.
But because it's transparent, the application is slightly harder as you can't really see where you've applied it. Secondly, those with very dry skin might find the hydrating properties of this self-tan water insufficient and may need to use a separate moisturiser.
Bondi Sands Pure Gradual Tanning Lotion
Best fake tan lotion
Image: Supplied/Finder
Pros
- Infused with hydrating ingredients
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- May not suit people with oily skin
- Colour takes time to build up
Buy now
Bondi Sands Pure Gradual Tanning Lotion is truly a cut above the rest when it comes to achieving that iconic golden glow. With an impressive 4.6 out of 5 stars on both Amazon and Chemist Warehouse, this tanning product is our pick for the best lotion choice.
The colourless, fragrance-free formula is easy to apply and buildable, perfect for those seeking a natural-looking tan. It's also infused with hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, and vitamin E, ensuring your skin receives ample hydration, radiance, and repair. Even those with sensitive skin can safely use this product, as it has been dermatologically tested and found to be safe.
However, since it's a gradual tan product, it may take slightly longer to achieve your desired shade than instant tan products. Those with oilier skin may also find that the lotion takes a little longer to dry.
Bondi Sands Liquid Gold Self Tanning Oil
Best fake tan oil
Image: Supplied/Finder
Pros
- Great value for money
- Nourishing
Cons
- Not everyone may like the scent
- Can be a bit streaky
Buy now
With a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars on Amazon and Chemist Warehouse, we recommend the Bondi Sands Liquid Gold Self Tanning Oil as the best fake tan oil.
This product combines body oil's nourishing benefits with a fake tan's radiant effects. Upon application, it leaves the skin tantalisingly soft and supple, accompanied by a subtle glow that is both glowy and natural.
Promising the longest-lasting tan in Bondi Sands' line-up, Liquid Gold requires no washing off and gradually develops over six hours, delivering a golden hue that lasts up to a week. It's formulated with pure argan oil, it deeply nourishes dry skin, ensuring the tan appears even and smooth. The formula is also cruelty-free and vegan, adhering to ethical practices.
Note that it does have a coconut scent, which some may find too strong. Additionally, the tan may transfer onto clothes or sheets if not fully dry.
Bondi Sands Bondi Sands Self Tanning Foam
Best fake tan for pale skin
Image: Supplied/Finder
Pros
- Lightweight, streak-free application
- Cruelty-free and vegan
Cons
- Drying time is a little long
- Some reported colour transfer issues
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With a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars on Amazon and Chemist Warehouse, we recommend the Bondi Sands Dark Self Tanning Foam for a seamless, sun-kissed glow for pale skin.
This self-tanning foam is enriched with aloe vera and suffused with a refreshingly tropical coconut scent, making the application a veritable mini-vacation of its own. Its lightweight formula allows for an effortless, streak-free application that guarantees a flawless finish every single time. It's also cruelty-free and vegan, underlining the brand's commitment to ethical beauty.
However, it's worth noting that despite its many benefits, some users found the drying time to be a bit longer than expected. A few others noticed slight colour transfer onto their clothing.
These issues aside, Bondi Sands Dark Self Tanning Foam is undoubtedly a top-notch product for achieving a bronzed tan, even for the fairest skin tones.
Bondi Sands Liquid Gold Self Tanning Oil
Best fake tan for dry skin
Image: Supplied/Finder
Pros
- Great value for money
- Nourishing
Cons
- Not everyone may like the scent
- Can be a bit streaky
Buy now
We recommend the Bondi Sands Liquid Gold Self Tanning Oil for those with dry skin. It has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars on Amazon and Chemist Warehouse.
This cruelty-free and vegan product is truly a gem, offering a gorgeous golden glow that develops seamlessly over six hours. It has an enriching formula that ensures an even, smooth tan that lasts up to a week without the need for washing off.
It is also Australian-made, free from artificial fragrances, sulphates, and parabens. Plus, it's scented with coconut, adding an exotic touch to your tanning routine.
Some users may not like the coconut scent, as it can be overpowering. Others also reported that it can be slightly streaky if not applied carefully.
St. Tropez Self Tan Purity Water Gel
Best fake tan for sensitive skin
Image: Supplied/Finder
Pros
- Gel-to-water formula for a gradual tan
- Claims to be 100% and vegan-friendly
Cons
- May not suit those looking for more intense results
- Some users said it does have a slight fragrance
Buy now
We recommend St. Tropez's Self Tan Purity Water Gel for sensitive skin. The product has an impressive rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars on both Amazon and Chemist Warehouse.
The formula is 100% clear, clean, and vegan-friendly, which is great for those interested in ethical consumption. It's infused with natural skincare actives and hyaluronic acid to plump, regenerate, and protect the skin. The tan is streak-free and instantly hydrating, ensuring your skin is not only bronzed but also healthy and nourished.
Plus, the no-rinse, no-transfer, and no-self-tan smell features make this product an absolute standout for beginners. It's easy to apply, coming with a light sheen that guides you, ensuring a foolproof process.
But while this is marketed as a clean and vegan-friendly formula, some customers have noted that it does contain a slight fragrance they would prefer to avoid.
Bondi Sands Gradual Tan Face Lotion
Best fake tan for your face
Image: Supplied/Finder
Pros
- Gives a naturally sun-kissed glow
- Hydrates and nourishes without being oily
Cons
- Requires daily use for maintenance
- Take a little while to dry
Buy now
The Bondi Sands Gradual Tan Face Lotion is easily our pick for the best face fake tan. It has a 4.35 out of 5-star rating on Amazon and Chemist Warehouse.
The lotion's dual-action formula delivers that much-desired natural tan and nourishes and hydrates the skin, ensuring you can flaunt a healthy, sun-kissed glow regardless of the weather. The cocoa butter scent is a pleasant bonus, turning your daily tanning routine into a sensory delight.
Designed for daily use, this product makes maintaining a year-round golden tan a breeze. It's worth noting, though, that for the best results, the skin should be clean, exfoliated, and free of any moisturizers before application.
And since the lotion has to be applied daily for continuous results, it might not be ideal for those with a busy schedule. Secondly, the lotion takes a while to dry, so you would need to wait before dressing up.
Isle of Paradise Fake Tan Water
Best fake tan for men
Image: Supplied/Finder
Pros
- Suitable for the face and body
- No transfer on clothing
Cons
- Overpowering scent
- Expensive
Buy now
The Isle of Paradise Fake Tan Water is our pick for men looking for a natural-looking, golden tan. It has an impressive rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars on Amazon.
It's a tanner and a hydration enhancer infused with grapefruit, chia seed, and avocado oils. The green colour-correcting actives work to cancel out any red tones, guaranteeing the perfect golden tan. Plus, it claims to enhance all skin tones.
Suitable for the face and body, you can easily mist the tan water onto your skin without a colour guide, meaning no blocked pores and no transfer onto sheets or clothing.
It's important to note that some users have pointed out it may take some time to dry. Addiitonally, the eucalyptus and cucumber scent, although refreshing for some, can be too strong for others.
Coco & Eve Self Tanner Mousse Kit
Best organic fake tan
Image: Supplied/Finder
Pros
- Comes with a tanning mitt
- Develops into a natural tan in just 2 hours
Cons
- Comes with a tanning mitt
- Develops into a natural tan in just 2 hours
Buy now
The Coco & Eve Ultimate Glow Kit is our top choice for the best organic option to achieve your desired natural golden tan. This product has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars on Amazon.
The kit comes with the brand's Sunny Honey Bali Bronzing Foam, which has a green-grey base that eliminates the unappealing orangey tones typically associated with self-tanners. It then develops into a naturally looking tan in just 2 hours, and the tropical fruity scent is a pleasant departure from the typical 'fake tan' smell. The kit also includes a Soft Velvet Tanning Mitt, a tool that prepares the skin for a flawless, streak-free tan by exfoliating dead skin cells and stimulating blood flow.
However, its price point is higher than that of other self-tanning products. This may deter some potential buyers. The fast-drying formula may also challenge first-time users who might struggle to spread the product evenly before it sets.
Methodology
"Why you can trust our picks
We considered the following brands of fake tans:
- Bali Body
- Body Drench
- Bondi Sands
- Coco & Eve
- Eco Tan
- Garnier
- Gina Liano
- Hawaiian Tropic
- Isle of Paradise
- Jergens
- L'Oreal
- Le Tan
- Loving Tan
- MineTan
- ModelCo
- Palmer's
- Sally Hansens
- St. Moritz
- St. Tropez
- Sun Bum
- Tan Luxe
- TANNED
- Tanologist
- Tuscan Tan
- Wotnot
For this list, we carefully picked products with the highest customer ratings across websites selling a wide range of fake tans. We ended up with over 100 products to compare.
We then researched each product and its features. We considered ratings and customer reviews on various websites. We came up with what we believe are the 14 best fake tans available right now in Australia.
How to fake tan
Prep your skin
If you don't have a good base, you won't have a good tan. You want to make sure you exfoliate dead skin cells away and any old fake tan. This ensures you've got a clean base for the tan to be evenly distributed over.
It can be helpful to moisturise your knees, elbows, hands and feet about an hour before applying fake tan so the product doesn't stick to any dry patches.
Apply tan
We recommend working in small sections. This helps avoid a patchy tan. Break your body into sections: calves, thighs, arms, chest, stomach and finally back. Leave your hands and feet till last and just use the excess tan left over on the mitt.
Once you're done, leave your tan to dry then pop some dark clothes on and watch it develop.
Wash off tan
When it comes to washing off your tan, we recommend following the directions of the specific product you're using as they're all different. Make sure the water is lukewarm – not too hot – and try to use as little soap as possible. As soon as you're out of the shower, moisturise your skin and presto – your work is done!
For even more details, you can check out our in-depth guide on how to fake tan.
The dos and don'ts of tanning
- Do apply small amounts in sections. Start in 1 section and make your way up your body.
- Do moisturise your skin an hour before tanning.
- Do take off an old tan before applying a new one.
- Do give your tan time to dry before applying another layer or putting on clothes.
- Do wash your tanning mitt after each use.
- Don't apply fake tan straight after shaving or exfoliating as the pigment will get stuck in open pores.
- Don't layer a new tan over fake tan or your tan will get patchy.
- Don't apply fake tan to your face unless it's specifically formulated for faces.
- Don't put clothes on before your tan has dried.
Frequently asked questions
Can fake tan stain clothes or bedding?
Yes, some fake tans can stain fabrics, particularly lighter colours. This is especially true if the tan hasn't fully dried. It's best to wear dark, loose clothing after application and avoid light-coloured bedding.
Does fake tan provide any protection from the sun?
No, fake tan does not offer any UV protection. It merely dyes the skin temporarily and doesn't affect the skin's ability to produce melanin, the body's natural defence against sunburn. Always use sun protection when outdoors.
How long does a fake tan last?
The longevity of a fake tan can vary between a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on factors like the product used, skin type, and aftercare. Regular moisturising and gentle exfoliation can help prolong the tan.
Can I shower after applying a fake tan?
It's advisable to wait at least 6-8 hours before showering to allow the tan to fully develop. Showering too soon may result in a lighter tan or uneven application.