Best self tanners for a natural-looking tan

Start here: St. Tropez Supreme Violet bronzing mousse. A violet-based mousse is the most forgiving route to a natural tan — the violet cancels the orange cast most tanners go, and a mousse with a guide colour lets you see and blend every patch before it develops. Apply with a mitt in long strokes.

If you want to build slowly: St. Tropez Gradual Tan Firming Lotion — a daily moisturiser-style tan you layer until you like the depth, so streaks are nearly impossible, and it's fine for the face.

If you want a drugstore-priced first try: Bondi Sands Self-Tanning Foam — a light foam that's easy to spread evenly; the Dark shade suits medium-olive skin, so pick lighter if you're fair.

For a deeper tan with a violet base: Bali Body Deep Violet mousse.

For face only: Coco & Eve Bronzing Face Drops — mix into moisturiser for a controlled, non-drying glow.

If you tan in a hurry: Loving Tan 2 HR Express — rinse after two hours, but it's the least forgiving of mistakes.