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Help! HOW can I FAKE A GOLDEN GLOW FOR SUMMER?

Words: Grace Gargini. Images: courtesy of Sofia Schwarzkopf-Tilbury.

Oh, hello glorious sunshine! What a treat to be reunited again. With the arrival of picnics in the park and the reprisal of your favourite summer dress also comes the need for a spot of beauty housekeeping – namely, adding some colour to skin that’s been deprived of sunlight for months. Here, our Beauty Editor picks the best self-tanners and glow-boosting products to fake it till you make it. Plus, Sofia Schwarzkopf-Tilbury models the ultimate summer-ready make-up using the latest (exclusive) launch from Charlotte Tilbury.

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beauty sos

Help! hOW can I FAKE A GOLDEN GLOW FOR SUMMER?

Words: Grace Gargini. Images: courtesy of Sofia Schwarzkopf-Tilbury.

Oh, hello glorious sunshine! What a treat to be reunited again.

With the arrival of picnics in the park and the reprisal of your favourite summer dress also comes the need for a spot of beauty housekeeping – namely, adding some colour to skin that’s been deprived of sunlight for months. Here, our Beauty Editor picks the best self-tanners and glow-boosting products to fake it till you make it. Plus, Sofia Schwarzkopf-Tilbury models the ultimate summer-ready make-up using the latest (exclusive) launch from Charlotte Tilbury.

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SKIN GYM JADE FACIAL ROLLER
EXCLUSIVE

CHARLOTTE TILBURY
Desert Haze Eyeshadow Palette

Inspired by hot desert hues, Charlotte Tilbury’s latest quad has been created specifically to complement the new matte Airbrush Bronzer (also out this week), allowing you to complete the Tilbury Golden Goddess look (as modelled by her niece, Sofia, above). Sofia explains, “these velvet-soft, warm peach to terracotta matte eyeshadows are so creamy, emollient and finely milled; they blend effortlessly without patchiness or dryness. I’m obsessed with these airbrushed textures for summer!”

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THE LIGHT SALON LED BOOST MASK

ISLE OF PARADISE 
Medium Self-tanning Water

If you have a number of fake-tan disasters under your belt, now’s the time to cautiously reconsider with the help of Isle of Paradise’s excellent tanning water. Created by tanning extraordinaire Jules Von Hep (who has over 10 years’ industry experience, including the tans of Strictly Come Dancing contestants, no less), the easy-to-use, cruelty-free and vegan formulas are ideal for tanning novices. This hydrating water can be spritzed directly onto skin and gives a light, sun-kissed glow.

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ROQUES ONEIL THERAPIE HIMALAYAN DETOX SALTS

TAN-LUXE
Super Glow Hyaluronic Self-Tan Serum

This clever tan-meets-serum hybrid has quickly made its way into countless skincare cabinets. Why? Well, it’s packed with skin-loving ingredients (think hyaluronic acid and brightening antioxidants) and Tan-Luxe’s patented ‘Transparent Tanning’ technology that delivers a natural tan without the use of chemicals – so you don’t have to worry about streaks or odd lingering smells. Simply massage a couple of drops into cleansed, dry skin before your moisturiser for a juicy, glowing complexion.

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When it comes to self-tan application, I’ve quizzed a number of tanning experts over the years (trust me, I’ve had my fair share of disasters) and have three key takeaways. 1) Always exfoliate beforehand – this removes dry skin to avoid streaks and patches. 2) Moisturise dry areas, such as hands, feet and ankles prior to application. 3) Yes, use a mitt! Leave your hands and feet until the end as they often give the game away.  

– Grace Gargini, Beauty Editor

PHILIP KINGSLEY EXTREME ELASTICIZER

VITA LIBERATA
pHenomenal 2-3 Week Tan Mousse

If you’re looking for a more traditional self-tanner, this natural-looking mousse ticks a lot of boxes. Blended with organic and natural extracts, the moisturising formula uses an eco-certified DHA tanning agent and an odour remove technology (for zero self-tan ‘biscuit’ smell), delivering bronzed skin that lasts up to three weeks. Plus, the lightweight mousse has a speedy dry time, so you don’t have to worry about stained sheets come the morning.

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KIEHLS CREME DE CORPS MOISTURISER

DIOR
Colour Games Diorskin Mineral Nude Bronze 

If you’re hesitant about fake tan, opt for a powder bronzer to add an instant hit of faux glow (without the commitment). These new Dior two-toned bronzing powders are infused with golden minerals that catch the light and give the skin a natural radiance. Swirl a fluffy brush into the palette and apply across the cheekbones and temples – anywhere the sun would naturally fall.

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Looking for more tanning & sun care inspo? Head this way… 

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