The best fake tans can deliver a holiday-worthy glow without the need for a plane ticket (or the UV rays). Over the past decade, I’ve watched the tanning industry evolve dramatically, with formulas becoming more advanced, versatile and easier to use than ever. My top picks now range from quick-drying mists and mousses to buildable gradual lotions and fast-acting express tans.
To find the best fake tan formulas for 2026, I consulted self-tanning expert James Read. “For lighter skin tones, a gradual tan is ideal, as it allows you to build your glow. For darker skin tones, a mousse works well, or you can use a gradual tan to build your desired shade,” he advised.
