The Best Face Tanners For a Natural Glow

The quest for a glowing, sun-kissed complexion without the sun's harmful effects is over because we’ve rounded up the very best face tanners to get you looking as radiant as possible. With the right fake tan, you can achieve that radiant glow without exposing your skin to UV damage.

But here’s the catch: not all tans are created equal, especially when it comes to your delicate facial skin. Choosing the right fake tan for your face is crucial for a natural look that blends seamlessly with your overall appearance. It’s not just about the colour; it’s about ensuring your skin stays healthy and hydrated too.

Navigating the world of face tanners can be a bit overwhelming, but don't worry—we've got you covered. This guide will walk you through the best products specifically formulated for facial use, why you should be using a fake tan specifically made for the face, and give you some expert tanning application tips. Whether you’re looking for a subtle hint of colour or a deep, beachy bronze, we’ve got recommendations that will help you achieve a flawless, sun-free tan.

Why are face tanners different from body tanners?

Getting the hand of facial fake tans is your ticket to a flawless, sun-kissed glow without stepping into the sun. Unlike the products you slather on your body, facial tans are designed with the most delicate skin on your face in mind. They’re lighter than body self tan, less greasy, and packed with ingredients that won’t clog your pores or cause breakouts.

The pros of using face tanners go on. For starters, you dodge the harmful UV rays that can age your skin and cause damage. Plus, a good facial tan gives you an even, natural glow that highlights your best features, and let’s not forget the easy maintenance. These products are a breeze to apply, blend like a dream, and fade evenly, so you can stay radiant and worry-free.

The Best Face Tanners, As Picked By Cosmetify

How do I apply face tanner?

The finish and longevity of a tan greatly depend on how you prep your skin before a drop of tanner touches it. Exfoliation and hydration are key. Begin by giving your skin a good exfoliation with a face scrub to remove dead cells and smooth out any rough patches. This step ensures an even application and helps your tan last longer. Follow up with a hydrating moisturiser, this will help prevent those dreaded patches and keep your skin looking silky smooth.

How you actually apply the face tanner will depend on what kind you’ve chosen. If it’s a cream or lotion formula, take a small amount on your fingertips and apply to the face, gently massaging in circular motions making sure you don’t miss any areas of the face. If you’re a beginner, it’s best to start with a little less product and build up the intensity as you go.

If it’s a spray formula, hold the bottle or can around 6-8 inches away and gently and evenly mist over the face, blend it in gently in circular motions with a tanning mitt and let air-dry. If they’re tanning drops or face serums, add 1-2 drops into your moisturiser and apply as normal.

And now you have all you need to know to give your skin a bronzy glow any time of the year, with our picks for the best fake tans for your face for you to shop and our expert tips on how to apply facial tanner. To give you the complete bronzed goddess all-over tan look, check out our picks for The Best Fake Tan For Pale Skin.