I’m a fake tan expert and my £1.20 ‘walnut’ hack will give you a flawless and streak-free glow every single time

YOUR pre-fake tan prep is just as important as the application itself. 

Having your pre-application routine nailed down will ensure you get an even, all-over glow without a streak or dry patch in sight. 

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Skinny Tan

Prepping your skin can also help your faux tan last longer. 

Exfoliating removes dead skin cells that can cause the tan to fade more quickly, while moisturised skin will hold the colour better. 

The tanning experts at Skinny Tan have claimed that its Pre-Tan Primer is all you need for a fruitful pre-tan routine. 

“This essential step exfoliates and smooths your skin, creating the perfect canvas for an even tan,” they explained.

“Infused with crushed walnut shell, it gently buffs away dead skin cells.

“This leaves your skin silky smooth and ready to absorb the tanning goodness.

You get 125ml of the gentle scrub for £11.99. 

And with an average of 10 uses per tube, that works out at £1.20 per use. 

The hero ingredient of the scrub is Apricot Seed Powder. 

“Our natural exfoliating ingredient gently buffs away dull, dead skin cells leaving smooth skin ready for tanning,” Skinny Tan bosses explained. 

Beauty buffs who have tried the scrub have been left seriously impressed, too. 

“I use this Pre-Tan Primer with an exfoliating mitt,” one reviewed. 

“Together, they left my skin – especially my knees and elbows – so soft and smooth.

“It gave me a perfect base for applying the tanning whip.”

Fabulous' £10 Fake Tan Test

FINDING the perfect fake tan isn’t easy. That's why Fabulous tested a number of fake tans which cost less than £10..

*If you click on a link in this boxout we will earn affiliate revenue

Superdrug Solait Self Tan Mousse Medium – £4.79 (was £5.99) – Buy Now

• Tester: Abby Wilson, Senior Fabulous Digital Writer
• Review: “This product give a very natural looking tan and if you wanted something a bit bolder, I’d suggest leaving it on longer or choosing a darker shade. I’m impressed with the results, but now my entire room stinks of the stuff.  If you’re on a budget and want a tan for last-minute plans, I would say this is one to try. “

bBold Dream Mousse Tan in Dark – £9.50 – Buy Now

• Tester: Josie O’Brien, Senior Fabulous Digital Writer 
• Review: “The first thing that hit me about this tan was the “juicy watermelon” scent – it’s delicious. I was left with a natural bronze hue rather than orange glow. My only qualm is that the tan seemed to stick to my dry patches and accentuated ‘strawberry skin’ on my legs. I’m still adding this tan to my arsenal though – the smell, colour and texture are dreamy.”

St Moriz Professional Medium Tanning Mousse – £4.99 – Buy Now

• Tester:  Kate Kulniece, Fabulous Writer
• Review: “Not only does St Moriz mousse leave you with a gorgeous bronzed glow, but it also smells fabulous – think Piña Colada on a sunny beach. At first, I was a little bit sceptical cause I’m a gradual fake tan girlie, but this quick developing St. Moriz number may change it all.”

“This primer is the best one I have used so far,” a second shopper praised. 

“Used with an exfoliating mitt, it gives a smooth finish ready for an awesome tan.”

Others praised the scrub’s ability to prep the skin for a “longer and deeper” faux bronze. 

“This is the perfect prep for tan application,” a third beamed.  

“But to be honest, it left my skin feeling so soft and hydrated that I would use it even if I wasn’t tanning.”