Ultimate Winter Tan Guide: Get the Golden Glow Even When the Sun Is on Ice
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The Ultimate Winter Tan Guide: How to Get the Golden Glow Even When the Sun Is On Ice
When the temperature drops and the sky turns a perpetual shade of grey, many of us long for that warm, sun‑kissed glow that seems to be the hallmark of summer. Unfortunately, winter sunshine rarely offers the depth of a summer tan, and a quick walk outside can’t give you that sun‑burned bronzy complexion you crave. That’s where winter tanners step in. These sunless lotions, sprays and creams give you a gradual, natural-looking tan without the harmful UV exposure – and they’re especially handy in the colder months when you’re less likely to be tempted to hop into the pool.
The Evening Standard’s “Expert: best winter tanners for every body part” offers a handy roundup of the top products for each area of the body, along with a few practical tips to maximise results. Below we distill that guidance into a comprehensive winter‑tan playbook.
Why Winter Tanners Matter
Winter skin tends to be drier, more sensitive and prone to uneven pigmentation. Conventional tanners that rely on the sun can leave patches or a “burnt” look if you’re not careful. A sunless tanning routine allows you to build the glow gradually, exfoliate properly, and keep your skin healthy. The Standard’s article emphasises that the right products can give a natural finish, be lightweight enough for everyday use, and provide additional skin‑care benefits such as hydration and antioxidant protection.
1. The Face: Light, Airy, and Even
The face is often the most finicky part of a tan – a quick misstep can leave a harsh streak. The article recommends three standout face tanners that blend into skin seamlessly:
| Product | Key Features | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Mizon Sunless Facial Tanning Gel | Light formula, SPF 15, hydrating ingredients | The gel spreads easily and doesn’t clog pores, making it ideal for dry or combination skin. |
| Lumin Skin‑Care Tanning Gel | Alcohol‑free, contains antioxidants, easy to rinse off | Provides a subtle, “fresh” finish without the heavy film that some face creams leave. |
| Drunk Elephant Tanning Serum | Contains hyaluronic acid and natural oils | Gives a dewy look that’s great for winter when skin tends to look dull. |
Pro‑tip: Apply a thin, even layer to the forehead, cheeks and chin. Avoid the eye area or use a dedicated concealer to keep those eyes bright. The Standard article links to a detailed “How to apply facial tanning serum” guide, which stresses the importance of blotting excess product to avoid shine.
2. Arms & Upper Body: Smooth, Long‑Lasting Coverage
The arms can quickly become uneven if you’re not careful with the technique. The article highlights a few products that deliver a deep, even tan with minimal fuss.
- Biossance 3‑In‑1 Tanning Lotion – Rich in shea butter, it moisturises while providing a streak‑free tan. Ideal for those who dislike greasy after‑effects.
- Eucerin Sunless Spray – Comes in a fine mist for quick application, plus a built‑in sunscreen (SPF 30) that protects skin from winter UV rays.
- The Body Shop Golden Glow Body Gel – Contains natural cocoa butter for a subtle, sweet scent that doesn’t overpower your fragrance.
Application trick: Exfoliate the arms with a gentle scrub before applying the product; this removes dead skin and ensures a smooth, even finish. After the tan has set, a light moisturizer keeps the skin supple and prolongs the glow.
3. Legs & Feet: Even Coverage for the Whole Body
The legs and feet are notorious for the “leg tan” problem where the lower legs appear darker than the thighs. The Standard article recommends:
- La Prairie Tanning Cream for Legs – A rich, anti‑ageing cream that adds a subtle, natural bronzer. The formula contains peptides that support skin elasticity.
- Nivea Sunless Tanning Spray for Legs – A lightweight spray that can be layered for deeper coverage. Its quick‑drying technology prevents streaks.
- Bare Skin Leg Tanning Balm – Combines SPF 15 with a natural pigment that offers a “sun‑burnt” finish that fades gradually.
Key point: The article links to a detailed “Leg‑Tan‑Mistake‑Free” tutorial that stresses the importance of applying in small sections and blending well, especially around the knee and ankle.
4. Quick‑Fix Whole‑Body Sprays: For When You’re On the Go
If you’re in a hurry and want an all‑in‑one solution, the Standard article spotlights these sprays:
- Suntan Plus Instant Body Spray – A 10‑minute quick tan that uses a low‑to‑high pigment gradient. No rinsing needed.
- AquaTanning Sunless Mist – Comes in a portable spray bottle, with a 24‑hour fade that keeps the finish fresh.
- Mollusk Body Tanning Mist – Adds a hint of citrus fragrance while providing a soft, natural tan. Ideal for travel.
5. Extra Tips for the Perfect Winter Tan
The article is peppered with practical nuggets that can help you avoid common pitfalls:
| Tip | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Exfoliate | Removes dead skin cells, prevents patchiness. |
| Hydrate | Keeps skin supple, reduces “glare” when tan sets. |
| Layer Wisely | Start with a light base and add depth gradually. |
| Use SPF | Even sunless tanners with SPF protect against winter UV. |
| Test on a Small Area | Check for allergic reactions before full‑body application. |
Additionally, the Standard article links to a side‑piece on “Winter Skin Care 101” that covers how to maintain a glowing complexion during the cold months—think vitamin C serums, retinol, and daily moisturisers.
6. Final Verdict
Winter tanners are a game‑changer for those who want that coveted sun‑kissed look without the wait or risk of UV exposure. Whether you’re after a subtle facial glow, a bronzed arm or a full‑body sheen, there’s a product in the market that matches your needs. The Evening Standard’s guide makes it clear that the best results come from combining the right product with proper technique—exfoliation, moisturisation, and a steady, layered application.
So next time you step out on a grey, wind‑blown day, consider reaching for a sunless tanning lotion or spray that’s tailored to your skin type and body part. With the right product and a little practice, you’ll be flaunting a natural, healthy tan all winter long.
Read the Full London Evening Standard Article at:
[ https://www.standard.co.uk/lifestyle/beauty/expert-best-winter-tanners-for-every-body-part-b1261624.html ]