10 Best Gradual Tans 2025 in the UK

The Garnier Ambre Solaire Natural Bronzer Self Tan Drops are designed for those looking for a gentle, gradual tan that feels nourishing on the skin. Suitable for all skin types, this product mixes easily with your moisturizer, allowing you to build a customized level of glow over time rather than getting a sudden change in color. It’s enriched with moisturizing coconut water and hyaluronic acid, which help hydrate your skin immediately and keep it soft and radiant as the tan develops. Being a serum, it has a lightweight texture that absorbs well without feeling heavy or greasy. The formula is vegan and cruelty-free, adding to its appeal for conscious buyers.

Because it’s a gradual tanner, the color development takes place over several days, so it’s better suited for users who prefer a natural-looking bronze without the risk of streaks or harsh lines. However, if you want a quick, deep tan, this product may require more patience and repeated applications. There is no mention of a distinct fragrance, which is good for sensitive noses, but if you’re sensitive to any scent, testing first is recommended.

These drops provide a hydrating, customizable tanning experience ideal for daily use, especially if you want to enhance your skin’s natural glow without harsh chemicals or animal testing.

Bondi Sands Everyday Gradual Tanning Milk is designed to provide a natural, golden tan while nourishing and hydrating your skin. With its compatibility for sensitive skin, it stands out as a gentle option for various skin types. The lotion is enriched with Vitamin E and Aloe Vera, which help in moisturizing and maintaining skin health. The cocoa butter scent adds a pleasant fragrance, making the application more enjoyable.

The gradual color development time of 1-3 applications ensures a natural-looking tan without any streaks, provided the skin is properly exfoliated and clean before use. This vegan and cruelty-free product appeals to those who prioritize ethical beauty choices.

However, the size of the bottle (375ml) might be a consideration for frequent travelers, despite its compact design. Additionally, while the product is suitable for daily use, some users may find the process of ensuring streak-free application a bit tedious. Nonetheless, Bondi Sands offers a reliable solution for anyone looking to maintain a tan year-round with minimal fuss.

The Dove Summer Revived Medium to Dark Gradual Tanning Lotion offers a user-friendly way to achieve a natural-looking tan over time. A key strength of this product is its compatibility with all skin types, making it a versatile choice for diverse users. Its ability to provide a gradual tan allows individuals to control their desired level of glow, which can be appealing for those wary of instant tanning products. The lotion's 72-hour active moisturization feature ensures the skin remains hydrated and silky smooth, largely due to its inclusion of aloe vera extract and glycerin. These ingredients are known for their hydrating properties, which may benefit those with drier skin types. Another advantage is its non-greasy formula, which aims to avoid the sticky aftermath that some tanners leave behind, as well as its pleasant fragrance of sun-ripened fruits, which could be a plus for users sensitive to strong chemical odors.

On the downside, while the gradual tan allows more control, it might be less suitable for those seeking an immediate tan for an upcoming event. The fragrance, although light, may not appeal to everyone, especially those who prefer fragrance-free options. Also, while it's designed to be streak-free, users may still need to pay attention to application techniques to avoid uneven results.

This product seems most suitable for individuals looking for a gradual, buildable tan with moisturizing benefits. Those new to self-tanning or who prefer a subtle, controlled tanning process may find this lotion particularly useful.