The Independent's journalism is supported by our readers. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn commission.
This gradual fake tan is my ride-or-die for a natural golden glow – and it’s reduced by 30%
The cult formula leaves skin nourished and bronzed
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Fake tan is my holy grail beauty product. Whether used for summer holidays, festive party season or a spring wedding, my look is never complete without a layer of the good stuff.
A decade into the game and it’s safe to say I’ve tried a lot of formulas – and the tanning industry has come a long way since the Garnier summer body days.
Always showcasing the best in innovation, Tan Luxe is a firm favourite in my rotation. From that collaboration with the noughties-queen of fake tan, Paris Hilton, to its skin-loving facial formulas, the brand is a giant of the fake tan world.
While mousses and waters are second to none, it’s the gradual illuminating tanning lotion that really impresses. The best way to achieve a subtle and natural-looking wash of bronze, this fast-drying lotion boasts a hybrid moisturising formula. Powered by nourishing ingredients (think raspberry seed oil, vitamin E and aloe vera), my skin is left smooth, soft and supple after use (goodbye, tiger bread skin).
While it’s a stellar base to build a bespoke fake tan on, I’ve also packed the Tan Luxe formula in my suitcase to Thailand and Mallorca to top up a real tan, with the hydrating formula working wonders on parched, sun-kissed skin. Better yet, it’s currently reduced, thanks to LOOKFANTASTIC – here’s everything you need to know.
Tan-Luxe the gradual illuminating tanning lotion: Was £25, now £17.40, Lookfantastic.com
A cult favourite thanks to easy application, its skin-loving formula and streak-free results, Tan-Luxe’s gradual tanning lotion is a lotion-oil hybrid. This means the lightweight product goes on with silky smoothness, is near-weightless, quick-drying and leaves skin soft and supple. Infused with raspberry seed oil, vitamin E and aloe vera, the formula is nourishing and conditioning. It develops in two to four hours, and you’re left with a subtle glow that can be built up for a deeper tan.
Considering the price, my only gripe is how quickly I get through the bottle (but I am 6ft, so there’s a lot of surface area). If you’re used to thicker creams or moisturisers, the almost water-like consistency of the formula can take a little getting used to (pour it out in small amounts to avoid a mess).
But if you’re willing to splash on a multi-functional, hydrating formula that achieves a long-lasting glow, Tan-Luxe’s lotion is well worth a try – particularly now that the price has been slashed down to just £17.40 for summer.
Looking for more fake tan recommendations? We’ve rounded up the best formulas for 2024