For more fashion, grooming and technology releases delivered straight to your inbox, sign up for our GQ Recommends newsletter. As gradual tanner contains less colour than full-strength fake tan, you won’t have to use a tanning mitt for application. Nevertheless, do wash hands thoroughly afterwards to prevent staining. When applying gradual tanner, consider which areas of the body are most likely to be exposed to real sunshine and focus on those spots. Avoid scrubbing or exfoliating the skin immediately after applying a gradual tan, since this will stop the tan from developing; and it’s best not to jump straight into bed to avoid rubbing your tan straight off onto your sheets.

Gradual tanning formulations are generally more forgiving than a full-strength fake tan when it comes to blobs and streaks, but there are still some good principles to follow when applying your gradual tanning product. First and foremost, exfoliate your skin before you apply; this especially applies to dry areas such as elbows, knees and ankles. Buff dry areas with a dry brush or bath mitt to ensure your tanner goes on smoothly and doesn’t “cling” to drier areas, and follow up with a light moisturiser. Recharge your skin with the essential anti-fatigue line up from L’Oréal Men Expert. Discover Hydra Energetic Anti-fatigue Moisturiser with Oxygen CP and Guarana to leave skin feeling relaxed and recharged. It feels really moisturising, and can be used alongside makeup to give a ‘glowing from within’ look, before being easily washed off at the end of the day.It’s also wise to wait around 30 minutes after bathing or showering to apply your tan, so that the product isn’t diluted by moisture on the skin – and so alkaline soap doesn’t interfere with the tanning chemicals. RCS72 said: “I’m so glad I found this moisturiser. I use it In the mornings as part of my skincare routine and it gives me a lovely glow. People comment how well I look after using it. Will definitely buy more of this.” With our ability to sun kiss our skin having been compromised over the winter, today is as good a day as any to mimic that summer radiance without relying on solar rays. That's why we've made it our mission to find you the best fake tans for men.

Modern gradual tanners deliver a natural and streak-free finish, with no risk of UV damage from the sun’s rays. Many also come with built-in moisturising and skin-nourishing ingredients, leaving skin smooth, soft and hydrated – as well as gently gilded. After a long, cold winter, a soft golden tan is a great way to add a healthy glow to your face – and rather than achieve it by sitting out in the sun, a fake tan delivers just that, but without the harmful effects of the latter. While full-strength fake tanning products give skin a bronzed appearance in just a day or so, gradual tanners build colour over time for a gentle, natural tint. As such, they’re perfect for an early springtime look, taking the edge off winter skin by giving a gentle boost to your skin’s golden undertones, without going full-on fake bake. More expensive gradual tanners will often contain a greater number of skin-nourishing ingredients, such as antioxidants and richer moisturisers; but for building gentle, natural colour without frills, some of the budget options are excellent. How should I apply a gradual tanner? Like full-strength fake tanning products, gradual tanners come in different formulations for face and body; gradual face tanners tend to be lighter in both shade and texture than heavier body creams and lotions. As with full-strength fake tans, gradual tans also come as lotions, sprays, mousses and wipes. You may prefer the moisturising feel of a lotion, the ease of a spray, or the speed of a fast-drying mousse. Once you’ve stopped applying gradual tanner, the colour will usually last a few days to a week. It’s safe to say that I’ll be wearing this glowy gel all throughout summer while keeping a close eye on men’s skincare for my next holy grail beauty buy.