Which is better, gradual tan or fake tan?

Author: Dr. Vaughn Purdy Jr.  |  Last update: Monday, March 31, 2025

If you want a quick result, choose an instant self-tanner suited to your skin tone. Bear in mind, however, that it needs to be applied carefully to achieve an even result. If you want to minimise the chances of a getting a streaky tan, use a gradual self-tanner which provides a more authentic and flattering result.

Is gradual tan better than fake tan?

You should choose a gradual self tanner if you prefer a more natural, buildable tan and want to control the intensity of your color over time. Gradual tanners are perfect for people who enjoy daily skincare routines and want a more subtle glow that doesn't appear all at once.

Does gradual tan wash off in the shower?

Lastly, while water won't wash away your gradual tan, it may dry out your skin (which is the next worst thing). To prevent your skin from flaking and making your gradual tan patchy, make sure to moisturise straight after you shower.

Do dermatologists recommend self-tanners?

If you're a fan of fake tanning, we come bearing good news. The common consensus among dermatologists is that self-tanners are a safe way to achieve a golden glow. Particularly when compared with the very real risk of unprotected sun exposure.

Does gradual tan stop you from tanning?

You will still tan after having a gradual tan, the DHA is the active ingredient in self tanning products. This when applied to the skin will cause a chemical reaction to the amino acids present in the skin cells found in the top layer of the epidermis (stratum corneum).

Does FAKE TAN AGE SKIN? | Self tan safety | Dermatologist @DrDrayzday

Is it better to tan gradually?

A gradual and natural tan is more likely to last longer, and sunburn will spoil all your tanning efforts. So avoid burning and get that dream long-lasting tan with these 10 top tips. Hydrated skin will not only tan better but will also keep its colour for longer.

Does gradual tan age you?

But Wong says it's unlikely that any skin aging effect would be pronounced. "The human studies so far have found that DHA mostly reacts in the top layers of the skin, which are dead. In skin aging, the concern is excessive free radicals forming deeper in the dermal layers of skin where collagen and elastin are."

What is the number one best self-tanner?

After extensive testing, we determined the highest rated self-tanner to be the St. Tropez Self Tan Express Bronzing Mousse. It's an airy mousse that's easy to apply and blend and leaves you with a natural-looking glow. You can also customize the depth of color based on how long you leave it on your skin.

Is it better to tan or use self-tanner?

While self-tanners can be a safer alternative than the sun, it won't protect you from the sun's rays, and you should take extra care when using spray formulas. Schedule an appointment with one of our other primary care providers. Save time, book online.

How much does tanning age you?

Indoor tanning speeds up skin aging

Indoor tanning is known to cause wrinkles, brown spots and thick leathery skin. Indoor tanning ages your skin 3 times faster than sunlight: indoor tanning can emit up to 15 times more UV radiation than sunlight.

Will gradual tan stain my sheets?

If you fake tan before bed and shower in the morning, you probably wake to orange-tinged sheets, unless you sleep on a large, dark coloured towel. Applying the tan earlier in the day will give the tan time to absorb and prevent it discolouring your linen.

How often should I put on gradual tan?

Apply gradual tan daily until you achieve your desired skin tone. Then reapply every few days, or more often if necessary, to maintain your tan. Avoid showering for a few hours following the application to allow the product to bind well on the skin - you can do this right before going to bed and shower in the morning.

Why does gradual tan go streaky?

It can be tempting to forego exfoliating or cleansing your skin properly before tanning, but then you risk a streaky tan! As our skin cells all turn-over and shed at different times, it's vital that you start with a fresh canvas so that your tan is applied evening and won't go streaky or patchy.

What is the number 1 rated fake tan?

Best fake tan formulas 2025 at a glance:
  • Best overall: Coco & Eve Sunny Honey Bali Bronzing Foam.
  • Best colour-correcting mousse: Bondi Sands Technocolor 1 Hour Express Self Tanning Foam.
  • Best for beginners: Tan-Luxe x Paris Hilton The Future Airbrush 360 Self-Tan Mist.
  • Best for natural results: St.

Is mousse or lotion better for self-tanner?

The tanning lotion is perfect for a hydrating, long lasting tan. The mousse is a quick drying formula that is perfect for a fast tanning application.

Does gradual tan keep developing after shower?

The initial development of your gradual tan will take place over the first 2–4 hours after application, so you should avoid showering during this initial period to allow your tan to develop properly. After this, showering every day should not make your tan slower to develop.

What is the healthiest way to fake tan?

Self Tanner

“Self-tanning lotions are a safe alternative to tanning beds and sun exposure, and they work by temporarily staining the outermost layer of the skin with a color additive called dihydroxyacetone (DHA),” notes Aimee Carr, an esthetician, makeup artist, and founder of Voodoo Makeup.

Is it better to fake tan at night or morning?

Applying at night gives your self-tanner time to develop a natural tan look. Things like showering, rain, or tight clothes can mess up your tan when it's trying to settle. And some tanning products will also stain! As the self-tanner process can take up to eight hours, applying right before bed is super convenient.

What are the cons of self-tanner?

So to sum it up, DHA (the active ingredient in self tanners) can trigger free radicals and accelerate sun damage. Erythrulose (the other active ingredient in self tanners) has also been shown to increase production of free radicals similar to the effect seen with DHA, as reported in this study.

What tanner does Kim Kardashian use?

Ardell Body Drench Quick Tan Instant Self-Tanner

Kim Kardashian flashed her own bottle of Body Drench when showing off her travel makeup bag — and she definitely knows a good sunless tan! If you have Amazon Prime, you'll get free shipping, of course. Not yet a member?

Does Jennifer Aniston use self-tanner?

In an interview with Redbook, Jennifer Aniston revealed that her favourite self-tanning product is the L'Oreal Sublime Bronze Tanning Towelettes, she says: "I like the L'Oréal Sublime Bronze Self-Tanning Towelettes.

What self-tanner do dermatologists recommend?

Dermatologists' Favorite Self-Tanners and How to Apply Them at...
  • Revision Intellishade SPF 45.
  • Elta MD UV Daily Broad Spectrum SPF 40.
  • Eryfotona Ageless Actinica Mineral SPF 50+
  • St. Tropez Self Tan Express Advanced Bronzing Mousse.
  • Tan Towel Body Tan Towlettes.
  • Jergens Natural Glow Three Days to Glow Moisturizer.

What's the best fake tan for older skin?

What tanning formula is best suited to mature skin types?
  • Tan-Luxe The Gradual Illuminating Tanning Lotion 250ml. 25% off Use Code: FLASH25. 4.38 stars out of a maximum of 5. ...
  • Bondi Sands Everyday Gradual Tanning Milk 375ml. 25% off Use Code: FLASH25. ...
  • ESPA Gradual Tan Body Moisturiser 200ml. 3.67 stars out of a maximum of 5.

Why shouldn't you fake tan?

Individuals who choose to use fake tan should be aware of the following: • Fake tan stains the skin a darker colour, but this colour does not provide protection against UV radiation; • Fake tan products that contain sunscreen will provide protection for only a few hours after application – not for the duration of the ' ...

Do you look older or younger with a tan?

It's important to note, however, that tanning can actually make your skin look older in the long term by inducing photodamage. Continuous exposure to ultraviolet radiation through outdoors sun exposure or sunbeds can also increase the risk of developing skin cancer, especially in individuals with lighter skin tones.

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