Sunkissed: The best gradual tanners for a natural glow
Getting the glowy summer skin of your dreams is easier than it seems
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While a glass of Pimm’s in a pub garden and al fresco dinners are surefire signs of the sunshine season’s eventual arrival, nothing says summer quite like glowing skin. And, while summer 2025 may have been glorious so far, you can never predict British weather, so earning that gorgeous golden hue can, naturally, be difficult. Enter gradual tanners.
Promising a fuss-free way to transform pale English skin, gradual tanners are the best way to achieve a natural, glowy complexion without the risk of sun damage. Ideal for those of us traumatised by the tangerine tones and streaky legs that come with hastily applied fake tan, think of gradual tanners as moisturisers infused with a subtle tint. Given their relatively low percentage of dihydroxyacetone (DHA) compared to normal self-tans, one application will result in a delicate golden shade that‘s buildable and convincing. Ready to look like a sun-kissed goddess? Here’s our guide to the best gradual tanners – as well as top tips for achieving a smooth, streak-free look.
How to apply gradual tanners
Much like regular fake tan, apply gradual tanning formulas on exfoliated skin for a seamless finish. While you could use mitts for application, you can also get away with using your hands as you would a normal body lotion (just make sure to rinse them afterwards to avoid orange Wotsit-dust fingers).
The best gradual tanners
Evolve Sunless Glow 3-in-1 Gradual Tan
One of the UK’s leading ethical and sustainable B-Corp beauty brands, Evolve has just launched a sweet-smelling gradual tanner in time for summer – and it does not disappoint. Erythrulose has been extracted from red berries to naturally react with keratin in the skin to impart a subtle bronzed glow, while shea butter hydrates and papaya acts as a natural exfoliator. Unlike other tanners, this won’t leave you feeling sticky or with that biscuity-aroma, and instead offers seamless application and a fruity (but not sickly) scent you’d be quite happy to bathe in. Run, don’t walk.
Tan-Luxe The Illuminating Gradual tanning lotion
Looking for a quick glow? Tan-Luxe’s lightweight formula is an oil-lotion hybrid that imparts a subtle golden radiance in as little as an hour. Plus, a combination of vitamin E, raspberry seed oil and aloe vera will leave your skin feeling silky-smooth.
St. Tropez Gradual Tan Watermelon Firming lotion
Looking for a gradual tanner with skincare benefits? St. Tropez’s Gradual Tan Watermelon Firming Lotion ticks a lot of boxes. The formula imparts a buildable bronze tint while boasting hyaluronic acid and raspberry seed oil to moisturise, soothe and firm the skin. The non-stick watermelon-scented formula is also vegan and cruelty-free.
Pai Skincare The Impossible Glow bronzing drops
The best option for sensitive skin, Pai Skincare’s The Impossible Glow bronzing drops are made with a blend of hyaluronic acid, sea kelp and vitamin C-rich lemon water to combat pigmentation while delivering a golden sheen. While the original bronze shade is a winner, also choose between champagne and rose gold depending on your skin’s undertones.
Bondi Sands Everyday Gradual Tanning milk
If a trip to the land down under isn’t on the cards, bring Australia’s sun to the capital with Bondi Sands’ Everyday Gradual Tanning Milk. Ideal for novices, the lotion is enriched with vitamin E and aloe vera and easily glides on for seamless application.
Self Glow by James Read Endless Summer gradual tan moisturiser
Self Glow by James Read’s Endless Summer gradual tan moisturiser is brimming with natural ingredients that nourish the skin – think shea butter and hyaluronic acid for optimal hydration, apricot oil to enhance skin tone, and vitamin E that will reduce the appearance of fine lines.
Gatineau Golden Glow gradual tan
Whether you’re aiming for a subtle sunny hint or a warm bronzed glow, Gatineau’s gradual tan is a fine place to start. A buildable, fast-absorbing cream that is super lightweight and enriched with nourishing coconut oil and vitamin E, let it melt into your skin and watch for radiant results. Oh and its pear and mandarin scent is also to die for.
Read more: The best sun creams for summer
