Best fake tans June 2026
Finding the right fake tan can give you a perfect sun-kissed glow without the sun damage. This guide helps you compare the best self-tanners on the market, from lightweight gels to hydrating lotions. We've broken down the key features, pros, and cons of each product to help you find the ideal match for your skin and desired look.
Last updated: 23 June 2026
Fake Tan: Top 5
1
Babaria Exotic Bronze Tanning Gel 75ml
from £4.006 stores
from £4.00
6 stores
2
Sally Hansen Airbrush Legs Tan Glow 75ml
from £13.992 stores
from £13.99
2 stores
3
Clarins Self Tanning Milky Lotion 125ml
from £12.354 stores
from £12.35
4 stores
4
ST. Tropez Self Tan Purity Bronzing Water Gel 200ml
from £27.953 stores
from £27.95
3 stores
5
The Fox Tan Rapid Elixir 300ml
from £19.994 stores
from £19.99
4 stores
Babaria Exotic Bronze Tanning Gel is designed for those seeking a deep and intense bronze colour. Its gel texture aims for a smooth application, and the 75ml tube is convenient for travel or trial use.
Pros
Gel formula for a smooth application
Formulated for a deep, dark tan
Compact 75ml travel-friendly size
Cons
Small quantity may not last long
No specified moisturising features
Sally Hansen Airbrush Legs is a spray-on tanner that provides an instant, glowing finish. Its waterproof formula makes it a reliable choice for events or warm weather, offering a flawless look that lasts.
Pros
Waterproof formula resists sweat and water
Convenient spray for easy application
Designed to give legs an airbrushed look
Cons
Small 75ml quantity
Specified for body use, not for the face
Clarins Self Tanning Milky Lotion is a hydrating formula that builds a natural-looking tan while nourishing the skin. Its suitability for both face and body makes it a convenient, all-in-one option for your tanning routine.
Pros
Features moisturising properties for dry skin
Versatile for use on both face and body
Milky lotion texture for smooth coverage
Cons
Lotion may take longer to dry than gels or sprays
Not specified as waterproof
From the well-known brand ST. Tropez, this Purity Bronzing Water Gel offers a hydrating and lightweight tanning experience. Its large 200ml size is ideal for regular users, providing a streak-free glow with a comfortable, non-sticky feel.
Pros
Generous 200ml quantity
Hydrating water-gel formula
Lightweight and non-sticky texture
Cons
Not specified for facial application
Gel requires careful blending to avoid streaks
The Fox Tan Rapid Elixir comes in an extra-large 300ml container, making it perfect for those who self-tan often. Its cream formula is designed for body application and provides ample product for consistent, all-over coverage.
Pros
Very large 300ml quantity offers great value
Cream formula is typically very nourishing
Ideal for frequent, full-body application
Cons
Cream can feel heavier and absorb slower
Not designed for use on the face
Lacks specific features like 'waterproof'
Compare specifications
| Type | Gel | Spray | Lotion | Gel | Cream |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Intensity | Deep | — | — | — | — |
| Application area | — | Body | Body, Face | Body | Body |
| Quantity | 75 ml/g | 75 ml/g | 125 ml/g | 200 ml/g | 300 ml/g |
| Price /ml/g | 75 | 75 | 125 | 200 | 300 |
| Features | — | Waterproof | Moisturising | Moisturising | — |
How we built the list
The ranking is updated monthly and is based on data we collect from our own platform. Products that rank highly are popular with our users while also maintaining high quality according to editorial expert reviews. Specifically, we take into account how many users follow a product through price alerts or lists, how it is rated by experts and users, as well as how much traffic it generates to stores and how well it is represented in stores. No products are paid placements — the ranking is governed solely by data.
