Best Fake Tan For Pale Skin 2025: 9 Top Formulas, Reviewed
Your pale skin self-tan FAQs, answered:Can a pale person use self-tanner?Of course! Most ranges have a few different shades to choose from — so just be sure to pick one that's been designed with fair skin in mind. And definitely start off slowly, because if the result isn't dark enough, you can just repeat the process tomorrow.“If you’re new to self-tanning, your first best bet might be to take a more slow and steady approach," explains Melanie Brownlow, founder of St. Moriz. “With a gradual tan, you can build your tan daily until you reach your desired natural-looking shade.”How to fake tan if you're really pale:The process of applying fake tan is pretty much the same for everyone, regardless of skin tone. However, take note that any residual colour on your palms or patchy will be far more obvious on pale skin — so make sure you've got some kind of tool.The jury is still out on whether disposable gloves, mitts, or brushes give a better result — but tanning mitts are certainly the most widely available option. Tanning expert Amanda Harrington swears by brushes for a long-lasting, perfectly even finish. "Whereas a mitt sits flat on the skin, a brush drives product into the nooks and crannies — so there'll be no more telltale signs around your chin and nose,” she adds.In terms of skin prep, make sure you get any shaving or exfoliating out of the way the day before — just like you would do if you were having a professional spray tan. “Before tanning, moisturising any dry areas like elbows, ankles, hands, and knees will help reduce the likelihood of build-up in those places," Melanie explains. After that, just follow the application instructions for your chosen tan.Looking for ways to extend the life of your tan for as long as possible? According to Melanie, using an oil-free moisturiser on your whole body at least daily is key to increasing the longevity of your tan. “Apply it after you shower to help lock-in all that lovely moisture," she says. “Also, avoid using abrasive cleansers or body scrubs in the shower, and swap out your scratchy washcloth or mitt for a softer one.”What key things should you consider when shopping for the best fake tan for pale skin?Clearly, picking a ‘light’ formula is key — but it's also worth making sure you've picked one with the right kind of undertones for your specific skin tone. “ While your skin tone may change throughout the year, your undertones will stay the same," Melanie explains. “If you are fair and have light eyes, it's likely that you'll have a cool or neutral undertone.”A formula with a green base will mask redness, and leave behind a natural and neutral olive-toned glow — while blue undertones guarantee a more deep and defined cool-toned tan with absolutely no orange tint. Alternatively, if warmth is what you're after, Melanie recommends seeking out peach undertones. “Ideal for fair and cool-toned skin, a tan with peach undertones will help counteract any blue or purple shadows, and brighten the skin," she adds.Aside from that, you just need to think about all the usual stuff that comes into play when picking a fake tan — like your ideal developing time, preferred product format, and if there are any specific ingredients you'd be keen to see included in the formula.
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