With our ability to sun kiss our skin having been compromised over the winter, today is as good a day as any to mimic that summer radiance without relying on solar rays. That's why we've made it our mission to find you the best fake tans for men. It’s safe to say that I’ll be wearing this glowy gel all throughout summer while keeping a close eye on men’s skincare for my next holy grail beauty buy.

Like full-strength fake tanning products, gradual tanners come in different formulations for face and body; gradual face tanners tend to be lighter in both shade and texture than heavier body creams and lotions. As with full-strength fake tans, gradual tans also come as lotions, sprays, mousses and wipes. You may prefer the moisturising feel of a lotion, the ease of a spray, or the speed of a fast-drying mousse. Once you’ve stopped applying gradual tanner, the colour will usually last a few days to a week. Gradual tanning formulations are generally more forgiving than a full-strength fake tan when it comes to blobs and streaks, but there are still some good principles to follow when applying your gradual tanning product. First and foremost, exfoliate your skin before you apply; this especially applies to dry areas such as elbows, knees and ankles. Buff dry areas with a dry brush or bath mitt to ensure your tanner goes on smoothly and doesn’t “cling” to drier areas, and follow up with a light moisturiser.

Create a soft and natural-looking gentle tan for spring and early summer with our pick of the best gradual tanning products

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Recharge your skin with the essential anti-fatigue line up from L’Oréal Men Expert. Discover Hydra Energetic Anti-fatigue Moisturiser with Oxygen CP and Guarana to leave skin feeling relaxed and recharged. As gradual tanner contains less colour than full-strength fake tan, you won’t have to use a tanning mitt for application. Nevertheless, do wash hands thoroughly afterwards to prevent staining. When applying gradual tanner, consider which areas of the body are most likely to be exposed to real sunshine and focus on those spots. Avoid scrubbing or exfoliating the skin immediately after applying a gradual tan, since this will stop the tan from developing; and it’s best not to jump straight into bed to avoid rubbing your tan straight off onto your sheets.

The best gradual tan you can buy in 2023

It’s also wise to wait around 30 minutes after bathing or showering to apply your tan, so that the product isn’t diluted by moisture on the skin – and so alkaline soap doesn’t interfere with the tanning chemicals. It feels really moisturising, and can be used alongside makeup to give a ‘glowing from within’ look, before being easily washed off at the end of the day.