MissLJBeauty

I have been leaning into the world of fake tan again. I am trying to achieve that gorgeous tanned look without the skin damage. So expect a few fake tan reviews from me over the next few months. I am actually trained in spray tan application, and this puts me in a good place to know a good and a bad fake tan. I was scouring the internet for a new one to try, and filter by Molly Mae popped up, and since I was in the market for a new tan, I thought, why not give this one a go. I have been a fan of Molly Mae for a while. Strangely, I didn't watch her on Love Island, but I found her on YouTube. I really like her, I think she is so down to earth and let's face it, always has a lovely golden glow, and that is what I would like to achieve. Now we all know I judge products by results, not if I like the brand, so these products are no different. Let's talk about this tan. I bought the filter mitt and the medium tanning mousse. I went with the medium as I think this is how you can tell a really good fake tan if it is buildable. 

What Makes the Filter by Molly-Mae Self Tan Unique?

From the first pump of filter by Molly Mae tanning mousse, it has a light, airy texture that spreads easily. The velvet mitt is a game-changer. It's so soft and really nice to use. It ensures a streak-free application and keeps your hands stain-free. The colour develops into a natural-looking tan that’s neither too orange nor too dark, giving that sun-kissed look we all crave.

Unlike some self-tanners that leave a strong, lingering scent, this one has a subtle fragrance that fades quickly. It dries fast, allowing you to get dressed without the sticky feeling. I did leave it 10 minutes, as this is what is stated on the bottle.  Plus, it fades evenly, so you don’t end up with patchy skin days later. Plus, I don't know how she has done it but there is none of that weird fake tan smell as it develops. I should mention that when you are applying the mouse there is a good guide colour, so it is easy to see where you have applied the product, and this makes application super easy. 

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying Self-Tanning Mousse

1. Start with clean, dry skin.

2. Apply a light moisturiser to dry areas. elbows, knees and knuckles 

3. Use the mitt to apply the mousse in sections: legs, arms, torso In circular motions 

4. Blend carefully around joints.

5. Let it dry completely before dressing for around 10 minutes 

6.  Development time is 4 to 6 hours

Tips for Avoiding Patchy Results

• Always exfoliate before tanning, - think scrub scrub scrub, normally the day before

• Moisturise dry areas. - Do a really good moisturiser session the day before 

• Use a mitt for application - nothing works as good as a mitt. 

• Avoid water and sweating during the development time. - no gym - no swim

Exploring the Key Ingredients in the Tan Mousse

The mousse is enriched with skin-loving ingredients like aloe vera, green tea and hyaluronic acid, which help to hydrate the skin while tanning. This means your skin stays moisturised, reducing the risk of dry patches and uneven fading.

Comparison with Other Brands Like Bondi Sands and St Tropez

I’ve tried Bondi Sands, St Tropez in the past and many others. While they offer good results, I found Filter by Molly-Mae to be more user-friendly, especially for beginners. It’s less sticky than Bondi Sands and doesn’t have the strong scent that St Tropez sometimes leaves behind, you know the one that smells like crushed biscuits. I remember when I worked in an office on a Friday, when everyone tanned on Thursday, this was the smell in the area and it's just a bit yuck ain't it.  This fake tan is just nicer to use than other tans. 

Some Handy Tips From a Ex-professional Tanner

Benefits of Using a Tanning Mitt for Application

Using the velvet tanning mitt ensures an even application and prevents your palms from turning orange. It is really thick, so unlike other this won't get through the material and onto your hands. Using a mitt will help to blend the tanning foam seamlessly into the skin, especially around tricky areas like elbows and knees.

Best Practices for Moisturising Before Application

Use a lightweight, oil-free moisturiser on dry areas before applying the tan. This prevents the tan from clinging to these spots and creating darker patches. Why Oil free I hear you ask? Oil will break down the tan quicker and leave you patchy, so say no to oil-based when using a bronzing mousse or tanning. 

How Long Does the Tan Last?

On average, the self-tan maintains its glow for nearly a week. Factors like skin type, exfoliation, and moisturising habits can affect its longevity. I have found my tan lasts about 5-7 days with proper care. It fades evenly, so you don’t have to worry about patchiness. Regular moisturising can help extend its life. This is one of the longest-lasting tans I have used. 

Maintaining Your Bronze Glow: Aftercare Tips

• Moisturise daily to keep skin hydrated. Not oil based of course. 

• Avoid exfoliating until you're ready to remove the tan.

• Pat your skin dry after showers instead of rubbing.

• Be conscious of the types of body wash you are using; some will have hidden exfoliants in it. 

Can You Use a Tanning Serum for Touch-Ups?

Yes, the Filter by Molly-Mae tanning drops are perfect for maintaining your tan. Mix a few drops with your moisturiser and apply to areas that need a boost.

Is the Filter by Molly-Mae Mousse Suitable for All Skin Tones?

The medium shade is versatile and suits a range of skin tones. For deeper skin tones or those wanting a darker tan, the brand offers a dark and extra-dark version. I personally wanted to try the medium as I thought for a tan review, this would be the best to give you my honest thoughts, and I have to say it has been really good. Medium being is the lightest shade, it might not suit everyone. This is still quite a dark colour I love it, but I am not sure how my really pale queens would find it. 

Understanding How Self Tan Adapts to Different Skin Tones

Self-tanners react with the amino acids in your skin, so results can vary. It's always a good idea to do a patch test to see how the colour develops on your skin.

Choosing the Right Shade: Medium vs. Extra Dark

• Medium: Ideal for a natural, sun-kissed look that healthy glow bronzed look. 

• Dark: for that end of holiday I've been in the sun all week, look. 

• Extra Dark: Best for a deep, bronzed finish or for those with darker skin tones.

Medium is very buildable , so bear this in mind if you are unsure which to get 

How to Achieve a Sun-Kissed Look Regardless of Skin Type

Prep your skin properly, choose the right shade, and apply evenly using a mitt. Maintain the tan with regular moisturising and gentle exfoliation.

What Are the Common Mistakes When Using Self Tanners?

• Not exfoliating before application.

• Applying too much product.

• Not using a mitt, leading to stained hands.

• Wearing tight clothes before the tan has set.

Avoiding Fake Tan Stains on Clothes and Skin

Wear loose, dark clothing after application. Wait a full 10 minute until the tan is fully dry before dressing. Using a tan sleep sac can also protect your bedding. But I have white sheets and I haven't had any filter tanning product on them. 

How to Exfoliate Properly Before Fake Tanning

Use a gentle scrub all over your body or an exfoliating mitt 24 hours before tanning. Focus on areas with dry skin to ensure an even application.

Understanding the Importance of Hydration

Hydrated skin holds a tan better and fades more evenly. Drink plenty of water and use a good moisturiser daily.

Can You Use Filter by Molly-Mae Products for Gradual Tanning?

While the mousse provides an instant tan, the brand's tanning drops can be used for a gradual build-up. Mix them with your daily moisturiser for a subtle glow.

Exploring the Gradual Tanning Options Available

The tanning drops offer a customisable tan. Adjust the number of drops to control the depth of colour. It's perfect for maintaining your tan or for beginners.

How to Transition from Self Tanning Mousse to Gradual Tanners

Once your initial tan starts to fade, begin using the tanning drops to maintain the colour. This helps in keeping a consistent glow without reapplying the mousse frequently.

Is Filter by Molly-Mae Tanning Mousse Worth the Price?

Price-wise, the Filter by Molly-Mae Medium Tanning Mousse is around £22 on its own, or slightly more when bundled with the velvet mitt applicator, which I honestly think is a must, is £32. 

While it’s not the cheapest option out there, the quality speaks for itself. You get an even, streak free finish, a scent that doesn’t linger too long, and results that actually last. For me, it’s worth every penny for the golden tan of dreams compared to cheaper tans that fade weirdly or go patchy by day three. I got mine on a bank holiday sale, so keep an eye out for those. 

I need to mention how lux the packaging is. If you have followed me a while, you will know I love me some nice packaging. This is stunning and the lid and top is a matt kinda velvet feel it's hard to describe, but this is very luxurious for a fake tan. I haven't seen anything like this one on the market before. 

My Thoughts and Review

I was genuinely impressed with the Filter by Molly-Mae Medium Tanning Mousse. I bought this to write a review for you all, and I had no expectations as I couldn't find many reviews online. I am always very critical when it comes to fake tan from celebs because let's face it, there have been a few cash grabs in the beauty market with no thought whatsoever put into the product. But with something like a fake tan brand from someone so relatable as Molly Mae, who really cares about her audience, I felt less hesitant to part with my money. 

When I am applying fake tan, I am looking for that summer glow I can't get normally from the Scottish weather. I want my skin looking healthy, sun-kissed, not streaky or smelling biscuity. I like Filter medium fake tan has smashed this out of the park. It is really easy to use. As you pump the foam out, there is a really nice guide colour on application, making blending really simple and streak-free. I get out of the shower, apply then wait for 10 minutes before I dress. I do mine at night and let it develop overnight, as I find this the easiest for me. I find I get streak-free results this way. I love that there are added skincare benefits to this formula and my skin feels really soft and nourished after use.

 I find it just as easy for tanning your face too. I just use the last of the product left on the fake tan mitt and gently apply to my face. I wouldn't recommend using a pump of product; always use the last of your product or tanning drops for your face. 

This gives me a really nice deep tan after one application but you can add a second layer the next day if you want to go darker. It works well doing this. I need to try the ultra dark to see the contrast. I would go for this one next, I think. I prefer a moose over a lotion any day, as I find these easy to apply. This is a really good long long-lasting tan. I have had the bottle for a few weeks now and there is lot left, so I think the price per use is really good. I should also mention my husband commented on how lovely my tan way. This is not something he has ever commented on before. So that's a win too. 

You know what I always say. It's a big winner if I am already thinking about when I run out. I won't harp on but we all know fake tanning is better than outdoor tanning, so defo check this one out and my other beauty reviews.