Finding the right fake tan for mature skin can be a challenge. With so many products on the market, it's hard to know which ones will provide a natural-looking glow without irritating the skin. That's why we've put together a comprehensive guide to the best fake tans for mature skin, based on thorough testing and expert reviews.

How We Tested

Our beauty experts have tested a range of self-tanning products, from gradual tans to instant formulas, to find the best options for mature skin. We focused on ease of application, even development, and the quality of the resulting tan. We also considered added skincare benefits, which are particularly important for mature skin.

1. Vita Liberata Tinted Heavenly Tanning Elixir

• Price: $44 / £34

• Format: Tinted tan with a luxe texture

• Key Ingredients: Slow-release DHA, organic aloe vera, ginkgo biloba

• Pros: Long-lasting result, luscious texture, great guide colour

• Cons: One of the more expensive options

• Buy Now: here

2. Collistar Magic Drops Self Tanning Concentrate

Collistar Magic Drops Self Tanning Concentrate

A Velloy top-pick.

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• Price: $43 / £36

• Format: Facial tanning drops

• Key Ingredients: Rapid-acting DHA, vitamin E

• Pros: Quick results, excellent colour, non-drying

• Cons: Expensive for a facial tanner

• Buy: Magic Drops.

3. St Tropez Self Tan Luxe Body Serum

• Price: $48 / £35

• Format: Clear, lightweight serum

• Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, vitamin B5

• Pros: Moisturizing ingredients, subtle colour, non-messy

• Cons: May not be dark enough for some

• Buy: here.

4. Isle of Paradise Self-Tanning Body Drops Dark

• Price: $38 / £26.95

• Format: Body drops for mixing with body cream

• Key Ingredients: Caffeine, baobab, oat extract

• Pros: Easy to use, customizable colour, great for fighting fade

• Cons: Requires experimentation for optimal results

• Buy: here.

5. Coco & Eve Sunny Honey Bronzing Foam in Dark

• Price: $35 / £26

• Format: Tinted mousse

• Key Ingredients: Anti-ageing, anti-cellulite Cellushape formula, coconut oil

• Pros: Dark glow without orange undertones, quick application

• Cons: Cellulite claims may be overstated

6. TAN-LUXE The Butter Illuminating Tanning Butter

• Price: $38 / £21.25

• Format: Luxurious tanning butter

• Key Ingredients: Cocoa butter, shea butter, coconut oil, oat oil

• Pros: Hydrating formula, builds gradual glow, quick visible results

• Cons: Expensive for a gradual tan formula

7. Bondi Sands Technocolor 1 Hour Express

• Price: $27 / £19

• Format: Tinted mousse

• Key Ingredients: Color-correcting tones

• Pros: Rapid development, clever colour technology

• Cons: Optimal results require more than 1 hour

8. Nivea Q10 Firming + Radiance Gradual Tan Moisturizer

• Price: $16.99 / £9.99

• Format: Gradual tan body moisturizer

• Key Ingredients: Antioxidant coenzyme Q10

• Pros: Affordable, easy to use, moisturizing

• Cons: Slight fake tan smell

9. Vita Liberata Body Blur

• Price: $30.93 / £20

• Format: Easy-to-blend cream

• Key Ingredients: Filter-finish particles, shea butter

• Pros: Reliable instant tan, natural-looking colour, strong staying power

• Cons: Difficult to wash off hands or unwanted areas

10. Bare By Vogue Face Tanning Serum

• Price: $28.50 / £26

• Format: Lightweight clear tanning serum

• Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, pomegranate

• Pros: Buildable colour, quick acting, hydrating

• Cons: May not dramatically alter appearance

Final Thoughts

Finding the right fake tan for mature skin is about balancing a natural look with gentle ingredients. The products listed above have been tested and approved by our experts for their quality and effectiveness. Whether you're looking for a subtle glow or a deeper tan, there's an option for everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a fake tan suitable for mature skin?

Mature skin often requires more hydrating ingredients and a formula that's gentle on the skin. Products designed for mature skin also tend to offer a more natural and subtle tan.

Can fake tan affect skin conditions like dryness or sensitivity?

Yes, some fake tan products can exacerbate dryness or sensitivity. It's important to choose a product specifically formulated for mature or sensitive skin.

How often should I apply fake tan?

This depends on the product and the desired result. Some tans develop over a few hours, while others gradually build up over several applications.