Tried and Tested: Spray Tans

For the most believable bronze, a professional treatment is a great idea. Here, marie claire staffers test four of the best.



Fast
Benefit Spray Tan, Full Body, $40
Best for: Those wanting a flawless result, but who can't fit the 6–8 hour drying time into their busy schedule.
They say: Provides a natural colour using a combination of up to three base shades to complement your skin tone. Can be washed off after two hours.
We say: "I loved the convenience of the two-hour tan. Being fair-skinned, I was concerned about looking unnatural, but it gave me a healthy, all-over radiance. The tan intensified after my shower and while it didn't rub off on my sheets, the smell was still quite strong the next morning. With daily moisturising, I have been able to stretch it out over seven days."
Try it: Call (02) 9695 4800 for a salon near you.

Indulgent
St. Tropez Original Tan Application, $100
Best for: Those in need of some pampering and a faultless finish. Perfect for brides, or if you're attending a big event.
They say: Rather than a spray, a tanning lotion is applied by an expert. A relaxing treatment that offers a complete exfoliation, giving you a longer-lasting tan.
We say: "It's the best 'tan' I've ever had. The experience is much more like a beauty treatment than a regular spray tan. Often after self-tanning, my skin can become dry, but this left my body smooth and hydrated. The scent was minimal and it was a believable shade. I would definitely have it again, but, due to the cost, it would have to be for a special occasion."
Try it: Call 1800 358 999 for a salon near you.

Organic
Naked Tan Rapid Spray Tan, $35
Best for: An authentic glow using gentle, natural ingredients.
They say: Enriched with hydrating aloe vera, the odourless formula is free from parabens and alcohol. A 10-minute treatment gives you an instant glow, and it's ready to wash off after two hours.
We say: "I was cautious about trying a new formula, but it was the perfect shade for me. The application was efficient and it dried in minutes. There was no 'fake tan' smell; instead, a pleasant coconut and vanilla scent that didn't irritate my allergy-prone skin. The tan lasted about five days and faded evenly."
Try it: Call 1300 365 683 for a salon near you.

Booth
VersaSpa by Magic Tan, $45
Best for: Those after a private and fuss-free option. Great for top-to-toe colour.
They say: An automatic system that uses high-tech equipment to provide an instant, even, natural-looking tan. The entire process takes just 60 seconds and the colour will develop in six hours.
We say: "I am a regular booth user because I prefer the privacy. The machine was clean, spacious and easy to use. The colour was very natural and having a glow made me feel great. The scent was strong, even after a shower, but I would definitely go back."
Try it: Call 1800 008 260 for a salon near you.