Six of the best self-tanners

Our relationship with self-tan has never been better. It's the best finishing touch to any outfit or beauty look, especially when the temperature rises. However, the smell and shade are not the only things to consider when shopping for a sunless tanner. From moisture-boosters to antioxidant-laden formulations, we've rounded up the best innovative when it comes to a faux bronze glow, says editor Trudi Brewer.

Here’s the top tanners, we swear by and the tips to get a believable bronze.

St. Tropez Self Tan Purity Vitamins Bronzing Water Body Mist, $61.

Tan innovators this is a foolproof, delicately scented (like a tropical cocktail) self-tan spray. Stacked with skin-loving vitamins C and D. Simply spritz-and-glow with this formula, it’s a must-try for building a no-fuss natural-looking bronze over a few days ideal for any skin type.

Is faux-tan safe?

Most faux tanning products contain dihydroxyacetone (DHA). Extracts from sugar cane or sugar beets, when applied, dihydroxyacetone has a chemical reaction with amino acids in the outermost top layer of the skin to cause a temporary darkening, it does not penetrate deep into the skin. So to answer the question - yes it’s safe to use even in pregnancy.

Bondi Sands Liquid Gold Self Tanning Dry Oil, $20.

Body oil lovers, rejoice: This quick-drying, coconut-scented shimmery bronzing oil is made with coconut and argan oils that help nourish and smooth skin. At the same time, the DHA builds a natural-looking glow over a few hours - with all tanners, best results happen when applied when using a mitt.

Tan in Order

When applying self-tanner, have a simple system. First, work the excess tan from your arms down to your hands and from your legs to your feet and ankles, then apply the tan in layers to find the right shade to suit you, which also helps ensure you don't miss bits.

Jane Iredale Tantasia Self Tanner and Bronzer, $87.

Stacked with unique, natural ingredients that work with the melatonin (pigment) in your skin to produce an impressive tan to your skin tone. It's subtle or buildable to create a hint of colour or a tropical island-looking bronze glow. Finally, it's perfect for dry skin as it contains vitamin E, vegetable-sourced silicone, and wheat protein, making your skin feel like silk - what's not to love..

Exfoliate on Rotation

We always hear about the importance of exfoliating skin before applying self-tanner, but it's equally essential to exfoliate afterwards, too, to help keep a natural-looking tan. Exfoliate after three days to allow the tan to fade evenly.

Clarins Radiance-Plus Glow Booster for Face, $50.

Glow in a bottle from every last drop. If you're nervous about going full-throttle with self-tan on the face, try a formula that you can add to moisturiser for a more gradual effect. Made with 99-per cent ingredients of natural origin, including DHA sugar beet extract, glycerin, aloe leaf juice to help preserve the skin's softness while providing a healthy-looking bronze.

A mitt is everything

We're not latex gloves fans for applying self-tan — we use a tanning mitt. It's a game-changer for getting a seamless, believable glow and brilliant for those hard to reach spots. They will help you nail a streak-free tan, and for those hard to get to areas, put a wooden spoon into your tanning mitt, then wrap an elastic band around it and use it to help you tan your back - it works wonders.

Isle Of Paradise Self-Tanning Butter, $38.

A rich cream packed with avocado, peppermint, eucalyptus and coconut oils to deeply replenish depleted moisture levels in the skin, and lock in a believable-looking gradual tan that lasts for days.

Cool skin won't streak.

Rub an ice cube along your face and hairline before applying self-tan, which closes open pores and creates a more natural-looking facial tan.

James Reed Tan Body Foundation Wash Off Tan Face & Body, $25.

If you want to look sun-kissed instantly, this fast-drying, water-resistant formula leaves an airbrushed finish on the skin scented with coconut and vanilla, but the good news is you can wash it off the same day. A tinted tan for your entire body that is a low-commitment but totally believable - it’s genius.

No one-size-fits-all

No single formula suits everyone. For example, a spray is ideal for those hard-to-reach spots, while a mousse works well for a speedy and dark tan. Those with dry, sensitive skin will get great results from lotions or creams, and if you have oily skin, go for a gel.